I love this dish because it feels both comforting and elegant at the same time. The pears turn tender and juicy in the oven, the berries add a gentle tartness, and the combination of honey, walnuts, and blue cheese creates a perfect balance between sweet and savory. I often make this when I want a simple dessert that also works beautifully as a light starter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it uses simple ingredients but delivers rich, layered flavors. I enjoy how easy it is to prepare, yet it always feels special enough for guests. I also appreciate how versatile it is, since it can be served warm as a dessert or slightly cooled as a savory course.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons honey
2–3 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). I lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil and arrange the pear halves cut-side up. I spoon the mixed berries into the centers and around the pears, then sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly on top. I drizzle the honey over everything and bake for about 25–30 minutes, until the pears are tender but still hold their shape. Once out of the oven, I finish by crumbling blue cheese over the warm pears so it softens slightly.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 4 servings from this recipe. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and baking takes around 30 minutes, making the total time roughly 40 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes swap the walnuts for pecans or almonds when I want a different nutty flavor. If I prefer a milder taste, I use goat cheese instead of blue cheese. For a deeper sweetness, I occasionally drizzle a bit of maple syrup along with the honey.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, I place them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, as I find this keeps the pears from becoming too soft.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I find it best served fresh, but I sometimes prep the pears and berries ahead and bake them just before serving.
What type of pears work best?
I like using Bosc or Anjou pears because they hold their shape well during baking.
Can I skip the cheese?
I occasionally leave out the blue cheese when I want a purely sweet version, and it still tastes great.
Is this recipe suitable for a dessert or appetizer?
I serve it as both, depending on portion size and whether I include the cheese.
Can I use frozen berries?
I use frozen berries when fresh ones aren’t available, making sure to thaw and drain them first.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this recipe because it’s simple, elegant, and full of flavor. Whether I serve it as a cozy dessert or a refined appetizer, it always feels satisfying and special, making it a favorite in my kitchen.
These baked pears with berries, honey, walnuts, and blue cheese are a simple yet elegant dish, perfect as a warm dessert or a light savory starter with a balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons honey
2–3 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Arrange pear halves cut-side up in the dish.
Spoon mixed berries into the centers and scatter any extra around the pears.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the pears and berries.
Drizzle honey over the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until pears are tender but still hold their shape.
Remove from oven and crumble blue cheese over the warm pears.
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired and serve warm or slightly cooled.
Notes
Use Bosc or Anjou pears for best texture after baking.
Swap blue cheese for goat cheese for a milder flavor.
Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for deeper sweetness.
Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different nut profile.
Thaw and drain frozen berries well if using instead of fresh.
