Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with these baked pears topped with creamy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and drizzled honey. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of flavors creates a unique and delicious taste experience.
- Quick and simple preparation makes it a great option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Perfect for meal prep – enjoy as a snack, dessert, or appetizer throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ripe but firm pears (Bartlett or Bosc): Provide a juicy and sweet base for the dish. Can be substituted with apples for a different flavor profile.
- Goat cheese: Adds a creamy and tangy element that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears.
- Fresh cranberries: Bring a tart and vibrant burst of flavor to each bite.
- Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Unsalted butter: Helps caramelize the pears and adds richness to the dish.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): Offers a warm and comforting spice that complements the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Place the pear halves, cut side up, on a baking dish.
- Fill the center of each pear with goat cheese and cranberries.
- Drizzle honey over the pears and dot with butter.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pears are tender.
- Serve warm, drizzled with more honey if desired.
Helpful Tips:
- Use ripe but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape while baking.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or brie, for a unique twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Try adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
- For a touch of acidity, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pears before baking.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these baked pears with a light salad for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy them as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or pork.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, place the pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh? Yes, dried cranberries can be used as a substitute, but fresh cranberries provide a more vibrant and tart flavor.
- How can I make this recipe vegan? Replace the goat cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan cream cheese or nut-based cheese.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can prepare the pears in advance and bake them right before serving.
- What other fruits can I use in this recipe? Apples, peaches, or plums can be used in place of pears for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion:
Elevate your dessert game with these delightful baked pears that are sure to impress your taste buds. Give this recipe a try and let us know how you enjoyed it! Share your feedback and any creative variations you tried. Enjoy!
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Baked Pears with Goat Cheese, Honey, and Cranberries
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20-25 mins
- Total Time: 30-35 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These baked pears with goat cheese, honey, and cranberries are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The pears are filled with creamy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and drizzled with honey for a perfect dessert or appetizer.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett or Bosc), halved and cored
- 3 oz goat cheese
- 1/3 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 tbsp honey (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: to 375°F.
- Prepare the pears: Place the pear halves on a baking dish.
- Fill the pears: Divide the goat cheese and cranberries among the pear halves.
- Drizzle with honey: Drizzle honey over the filled pears.
- Bake: Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the pears are tender.
- Serve: Sprinkle with ground cinnamon if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Try different types of cheese like blue cheese or gorgonzola for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pear half
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg