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This elegant blue cheese stuffed pears recipe is perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines sweet and savory flavors with a beautiful presentation that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make.
I first made this when I needed a quick appetizer and it quickly became a favorite for weekends when I want something both elegant and effortless.
Ingredients
- Two ripe but firm pears: choose ones that are soft enough to bake yet hold their shape
- Half a cup of crumbled blue cheese: provides a bold and creamy filling choose a flavorful but not overpowering variety
- Two tablespoons of chopped walnuts or pecans: add a satisfying crunch and earthy notes
- One teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: brings an herbal brightness fresh thyme works best
- One tablespoon honey: offers a subtle sweetness that balances the cheese
- Black pepper to taste: enhances all flavors with a little warmth
- Olive oil for brushing: helps the pears roast to a nice golden shade use a good quality extra virgin for best flavor
Instructions
- Cut and Prep The Pears:
- Cut each pear in half lengthwise then carefully scoop out the core and seeds to create a small hollow for the filling. This ensures the filling sits perfectly without spilling during baking.
- Brush With Olive Oil:
- Lightly brush each pear half’s cut side with olive oil. This helps the pears caramelize gently in the oven and adds subtle richness to the dish.
- Mix Filling:
- In a small bowl combine the blue cheese crumbles with chopped nuts and fresh thyme. Mixing them well ensures every bite has the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy and fragrant.
- Stuff The Pears:
- Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into the hollowed centers of the pear halves. Be gentle but thorough so each pear is generously filled.
- Bake:
- Place the stuffed pears cut-side up in a prepared oven dish and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 18 minutes until the pears soften just enough to be tender but still hold their shape. The cheese softens but should not fully melt.
- Finish With Honey and Pepper:
- Remove from the oven and lightly drizzle honey over each pear half. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste for a bright counterpoint to the richness.
I love how the nutty crunchy blue cheese filling paired with the juicy pears reminds me of slow dinners with family where every bite felt like a little celebration.
Storage Tips
Store leftover stuffed pears in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold as a snack.
Ingredient Swaps
If you prefer a milder cheese try goat cheese mixed with a little cream cheese. Substitute walnuts with toasted almonds or hazelnuts depending on what you have on hand.
Serving Ideas
Serve these pears alongside a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil or with crusty bread to soak up any melting cheese and honey.
Seasonal Twists
In cooler months try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warmth. In summer toss some fresh basil with thyme for a brighter herb flavor.
This recipe is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. Perfect for any occasion when you want something elegant yet simple to prepare.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of pears work best for stuffing?
Choose ripe but firm pears like Bosc or Anjou to hold their shape during baking while remaining tender.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of blue cheese?
Yes, creamy cheeses with bold flavors such as goat cheese or gorgonzola can complement the pears well.
- → How do the nuts contribute to the dish?
Chopped walnuts or pecans add a pleasant crunch and earthy depth that balances the creamy cheese and sweet pear.
- → Is it necessary to brush the pears with olive oil?
Brushing with olive oil prevents sticking and helps the pears develop a slightly roasted flavor and appealing color.
- → Can stuffed pears be served cold?
Yes, they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in either state.
- → What does the honey add to the final dish?
The honey provides a delicate sweetness that contrasts the bold, tangy blue cheese and enhances the fruit’s natural sugars.