Description
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears combine the sweetness of ripe pears with the bold flavors of blue cheese and toasted walnuts. Baked to perfection and finished with honey, balsamic glaze, and fresh thyme, this appetizer offers a sophisticated blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Pears
- 4 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), halved and cored
Stuffing
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
- Optional pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the pears: Arrange the halved and cored pears cut-side up in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
- Make the stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese with the toasted chopped walnuts, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
- Stuff the pears: Spoon the blue cheese and walnut mixture into the hollow of each pear half, filling them generously but without overflowing.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the pears for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pears become tender and the cheese is slightly melted and golden on top.
- Add final touches: Remove the pears from the oven and immediately drizzle them with honey and balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and a light pinch of freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve the stuffed pears warm or at room temperature, ideal as an appetizer or elegant dessert.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, substitute goat cheese or gorgonzola for the blue cheese.
- Add a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds on top for a festive and colorful touch.
- This dish pairs beautifully with crisp white wine or sparkling cider, enhancing its elegant flavors.
