A sophisticated open-faced toast layered with creamy Brie, ripe pear slices, crunchy walnuts, and drizzled honey, garnished with fresh thyme—perfect for brunch, light lunch, or elegant appetizers. This recipe balances sweet, savory, and earthy flavors in every bite, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This toast is a blend of gourmet flavors with minimal effort. The creaminess of Brie pairs beautifully with the juicy sweetness of ripe pear and the aromatic touch of fresh thyme. The addition of chopped walnuts adds a satisfying crunch, while honey brings it all together with a luxurious finish. It’s quick to make, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Ideal for those who enjoy refined flavor combinations with rustic charm.

Ingredients

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

• rustic sourdough bread

• ripe pear, thinly sliced

• Brie cheese, sliced

• honey

• chopped walnuts

• fresh thyme sprigs

• freshly cracked black pepper (optional)

• olive oil for brushing

Directions

1. Lightly brush the sourdough slices with olive oil. Toast in a skillet or oven until crisp and golden.

2. While still warm, layer slices of Brie cheese onto each toast.

3. Arrange thin slices of pear over the Brie, fanning them neatly across the surface.

4. Drizzle honey generously over the pears.

5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added crunch.

6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a touch of cracked black pepper, if desired.

7. Serve immediately while warm and the cheese is slightly melty.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 toasts (can be sliced and served as 4–6 appetizers)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Fig Twist: Substitute sliced figs for pears for a richer, deeper flavor.

• Apple Option: Use crisp apple slices for a more tart and crunchy contrast.

• Nut Substitutes: Replace walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts, depending on preference.

• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based Brie alternative and maple syrup instead of honey.

• Spiced Upgrade: Add a light sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg over the pears before baking for a warm, spiced note.

Storage/Reheating

This toast is best enjoyed immediately while warm and fresh. However, if needed, it can be prepped slightly in advance. To store, keep the components separate (toast, sliced pear, cheese, etc.) and assemble just before serving. Reheat the toast with cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes, then add the fresh toppings.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can toast the bread and slice the ingredients in advance. Assemble and warm right before serving.

What kind of pear works best?

Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal—they hold their shape well and offer a sweet, juicy flavor.

Can I use another type of bread?

Yes, any rustic or hearty bread like ciabatta, multigrain, or French bread works well.

Is there a substitute for Brie cheese?

Camembert, goat cheese, or even a mild blue cheese can be used as substitutes depending on your taste.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry sparkling wine pairs wonderfully with the sweet and creamy elements.

Can I serve this as an appetizer?

Absolutely. Slice the toast into smaller pieces and serve on a platter as elegant finger food.

Is this toast suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly as long as the Brie cheese does not contain animal rennet.

How do I keep the pears from browning?

Lightly brush the slices with lemon juice if prepping in advance to prevent browning.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Yes, add thinly sliced prosciutto or smoked turkey for a savory, protein-rich addition.

How do I keep the toast crispy?

Ensure the bread is well-toasted and assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Conclusion

Pear, Brie, and Honey Toast with Walnuts and Thyme is an effortlessly elegant dish that highlights the beauty of fresh, simple ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a special brunch, a refined appetizer, or a quick gourmet snack, this toast delivers sophistication and flavor in every bite. Its balanced profile and adaptability make it a standout recipe for any occasion.

Pear, Brie, and Honey Toast with Walnuts and Thyme

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 toasts 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Toasting
• Cuisine: Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A refined and flavorful open-faced toast featuring creamy Brie, fresh pear slices, chopped walnuts, and a drizzle of honey, finished with fresh thyme. Ideal for brunch, a light lunch, or a sophisticated appetizer.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 slices rustic sourdough bread
• 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
• 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
• Olive oil for brushing

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Instructions

1. Lightly brush the sourdough slices with olive oil and toast them in a skillet or oven until crisp and golden.
2. While still warm, layer Brie cheese slices onto each toast.
3. Add thin slices of pear over the Brie, fanning them neatly across the surface.
4. Drizzle honey generously over the pears.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for crunch.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a touch of cracked black pepper, if desired.
7. Serve immediately while warm and melty.

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Notes

• Use a firm, ripe pear like Bosc or Anjou for best texture.
• Optional: toast bread in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
• For extra richness, add a smear of butter under the Brie.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 toast
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30mg