Baked Pears with Berries, Maple, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
This elegant yet simple dessert (or appetizer) pairs the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the tang of blue cheese, the crunch of walnuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup. The result is a perfectly balanced dish that’s both sweet and savory—ideal for fall dinners, brunches, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Pears: Slice the pears in half lengthwise and remove the cores using a small spoon. Brush each half with olive oil to keep them moist during baking.
- Season and Bake: Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared dish. Drizzle evenly with maple syrup and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add Toppings: Remove the pears from the oven and top each half with a spoonful of mixed berries, chopped walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven for 3–5 more minutes, just until the blue cheese begins to soften and melt slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool briefly. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired. Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or light dessert.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 | Calories: 310 kcal
Q&A
Q1: Can I use another cheese instead of blue cheese?
A: Yes! Goat cheese or feta both work beautifully if you prefer a milder flavor.
Q2: Can I make this vegan?
A: Definitely. Skip the blue cheese and drizzle with extra maple syrup or add a spoonful of coconut yogurt before serving.