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Warm baked pears filled with gooey brie, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries make a comforting treat perfect for fall and winter gatherings. Some nights I want a dessert that feels elegant but takes barely any time. This is the answer. Each bite balances sweet pears and honey with earthy nuts and creamy cheese for a showstopper right out of the oven.
I love how guests always assume I spent hours on these. One chilly October, I threw this together with fruit left in the bowl and now friends demand it every potluck.
Ingredients
- Pears: Ripe but firm pears provide sweetness and hold their shape look for smooth skin and a gentle fragrance
- Lemon juice: Keeps pears bright and prevents browning always use fresh for best flavor
- Brie cheese: Brings creamy indulgence choose slightly firm brie so it does not melt away
- Walnuts: Add a nutty crunch toast them first for extra aroma
- Dried cranberries: Offer tart contrast and a pop of color go for unsweetened if you prefer tang
- Honey: Ties everything together with golden sweetness raw honey has the richest flavor
- Fresh thyme leaves: Add herbal brightness and elegance only a few leaves needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Pears:
- Halve your pears from top to bottom and scoop out the cores using a melon baller or teaspoon for a neat cavity
- Brush with Lemon:
- With a pastry brush generously coat cut sides of pears with lemon juice making sure all exposed flesh is covered to prevent browning
- Arrange in Baking Dish:
- Line a small baking dish with parchment paper then nestle pears cut side up leaving space so heat circulates evenly
- Stuff the Pears:
- Distribute cubes of brie into each hollow add walnuts and cranberries pressing gently so filling is heaping and compact
- Drizzle with Honey:
- Pour honey slowly over the top so it soaks into the filling and slightly pools on the pears for a glossy finish
- Bake:
- Slide dish into oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until pears are fork tender and cheese just starts to bubble the aroma will be irresistible
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter fresh thyme leaves over warm pears right before serving plate immediately for melty perfection
Every time I smell the warm honey and cheese together I remember making this version for my mom one winter when she was snowed in with us. We ate them right from the pan with spoons and laughed about the mess. The little burst of cranberry in each bite is still my favorite surprise.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge two to three days. To rewarm place back in the oven at a low temperature just until the cheese is loose and the pears are soft again. Microwaving is not ideal as the cheese can separate.
Ingredient Substitutions
Bosc or DAnjou pears work just as well as Bartlett. If you cannot find brie try Camembert or even a creamy goat cheese for a welcome tang. Pecans or hazelnuts can stand in for walnuts. Golden raisins or chopped dried cherries give a fun twist if you are out of cranberries. Maple syrup also shines in place of honey.
Serving Suggestions
Set these pears on a cheese board for a dramatic appetizer. Dress up plates with a sprinkle of flaky salt or a swirl of balsamic glaze for an extra grown up kick. For dessert add a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each warm pear. They turn simple roast chicken or pork into a dinner party meal as a sweet-savory side.
Cultural and Seasonal Inspiration
Pears and brie both thrive during fall making this an ideal cold weather recipe. The combination draws on classic French ingredients where cheese and fruit often top buttery breads. Cranberries nod to holiday celebrations across North America while honey brings Mediterranean warmth to the dish.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use apples when pears are out of season and stuff with dates for a deeper sweetness Add toasted pecans and chopped rosemary for a winter touch Finish with candied ginger pieces for brightness in late winter meals
Success Stories
I have watched dinner guests who claim to dislike fruit desserts go silent the minute they cut into these pears. Even my kids ask for second helpings. They are a staple for my Friendsgiving tables and holiday brunches. Make a big batch and you will never have leftovers.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Slice and fill pears as directed then freeze them on a lined tray until hard. Store in a bag and bake straight from the freezer adding a few extra minutes. The texture is slightly softer but just as delicious piping hot from the oven.
Your kitchen will smell incredible and everyone will ask for the recipe. These baked pears are a cozy showstopper for any cold night.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of pears work best?
Choose ripe but firm pears such as Bosc or Anjou. They hold their shape during baking and offer great flavor.
- → Can I substitute another cheese for brie?
Yes, Camembert or a soft goat cheese also pair nicely with pears, though both offer a slightly different flavor profile.
- → What other nuts can I use?
Pecans or hazelnuts make good alternatives to walnuts, adding their own distinct crunch and aroma.
- → Is there a non-dairy version?
Try vegan cheese alternatives or simply leave out the cheese for a lighter, dairy-free option.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Place cooled pears in an airtight container and refrigerate. Warm gently in the oven before serving again.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead?
You can assemble pears in advance and bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.