Elegant and full of flavor, these roasted pears bring together the natural sweetness of fruit with the sharpness of blue cheese, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the warmth of honey. Whether served as a refined appetizer, a seasonal side, or a unique dessert, they are sure to impress with their beautiful presentation and bold contrast of flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory in each bite. The natural sugars in ripe pears caramelize beautifully in the oven, while the creamy blue cheese adds richness. Crunchy walnuts and aromatic thyme contribute texture and depth, and the final honey drizzle ties everything together. It’s an easy, elegant dish that can be served in various ways—from holiday starters to cheese board accompaniments.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
crumbled blue cheese
chopped walnuts
olive oil
fresh thyme leaves
chili flakes (optional)
salt and pepper
honey

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Halve the pears lengthwise and use a spoon to core them, removing seeds and a small portion of the center to form a cavity.
3. Place the pear halves cut side up in the prepared baking dish. Brush each half with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts into each pear’s cavity.
5. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and, if desired, a pinch of chili flakes over the top for a mild kick.
6. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pears are soft and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
7. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with honey while still warm.
8. Serve as an appetizer, on top of salads, or as a savory-sweet dessert option.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 roasted pear halves (3 whole pears), serving approximately 3–6 people depending on portion size.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Substitutes: Swap blue cheese with goat cheese or gorgonzola for a different but equally flavorful profile.
• Nut Options: Use pecans or hazelnuts in place of walnuts for a twist on texture and taste.
• Vegan Version: Replace blue cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and drizzle with agave syrup instead of honey.
• Add Prosciutto: Wrap each pear half with a slice of prosciutto before baking for a savory, salty addition.
• Wine Pairing: Serve alongside a glass of dry white wine or dessert wine for a refined pairing.

storage/reheating

Leftover roasted pears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pears mushy and alter the cheese texture. Add fresh thyme or an extra drizzle of honey after reheating for freshness.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can roast the pears a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving. Add the honey and fresh herbs just before serving for the best flavor.

What kind of pears are best for roasting?

Bosc and Anjou pears work well because they hold their shape during baking and offer a good balance of sweetness and firmness.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, goat cheese, feta, or gorgonzola are excellent substitutes depending on your flavor preference.

Are these pears sweet or savory?

They offer a balanced sweet-savory profile thanks to the fruit, cheese, nuts, and honey combination.

Can I serve this cold?

While best served warm, the pears can also be enjoyed at room temperature as part of a cheese board.

How do I toast the walnuts?

Place chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I omit the honey?

Yes, especially if serving as a side dish rather than a dessert. Try a balsamic reduction instead for a savory twist.

What’s the best way to serve this as a salad?

Place the warm pear halves over a bed of arugula or mixed greens, add a drizzle of vinaigrette, and serve as a composed salad.

How do I keep the pears from tipping over while baking?

Trim a small slice off the bottom of each pear half to create a flat base so they sit evenly in the baking dish.

Conclusion

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts & Honey are a sophisticated yet simple dish that can elevate any meal. Their elegant appearance and complex flavor profile make them ideal for entertaining or special occasions. Whether served as an appetizer or a creative dessert, this dish showcases the harmony of seasonal ingredients in a truly memorable way.

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts & Honey

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 halves (3 servings) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: European
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Tender roasted pears filled with creamy blue cheese and toasted walnuts, enhanced with fresh thyme and a drizzle of honey for a sophisticated, sweet-savory appetizer or dessert.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease.
2. Cut pears in half and scoop out the seeds and a bit of the center to create space for filling.
3. Arrange the pear halves cut side up in the baking dish. Brush with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Fill each pear with crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts. Sprinkle with thyme and chili flakes if using.
5. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until pears are tender and cheese is bubbling.
6. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with honey.
7. Serve warm as an appetizer, salad topping, or a sophisticated dessert.

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Notes

• Use firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for best texture during roasting.
• Substitute goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor than blue cheese.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze instead of honey for a deeper tangy-sweet note.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 pear halves
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg