Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe but firm pears | 4 |
| Goat cheese | ½ cup |
| Chopped walnuts | ½ cup |
| Dried cranberries | ⅓ cup |
| Honey | 3 tbsp |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 1 tbsp |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ tsp |
| Fresh thyme | 1–2 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | ½ tsp |
| Sea salt | A small pinch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pears
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Wash and dry the pears thoroughly.
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Cut each pear in half lengthwise.
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Use a small spoon to remove the seeds and core.
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Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
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Leave the skin on to help the pears maintain their shape.
Step 2: Prepare the Pear Seasoning
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In a small bowl, combine melted butter and 1 tablespoon honey.
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Add cinnamon and vanilla extract.
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Mix well.
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Brush the mixture over the cut surfaces of the pears.
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Sprinkle with a small pinch of sea salt.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
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Place goat cheese in a mixing bowl.
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Add chopped walnuts.
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Add dried cranberries.
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Add a little fresh thyme.
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Mix gently until combined.
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Keep some walnuts and cranberries aside for topping.
Step 4: Fill the Pears
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Spoon the goat cheese mixture into the hollow centers of each pear half.
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Distribute the filling evenly.
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Gently press the filling into place.
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Sprinkle the reserved walnuts and cranberries over the top.
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Drizzle lightly with honey.
Step 5: Bake the Pears
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Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes.
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Check the pears with a fork.
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They should be tender but still hold their shape.
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The goat cheese should become soft and creamy.
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The walnuts should become lightly toasted.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
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Remove the pears from the oven.
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Allow them to cool for approximately 5 minutes.
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Drizzle with the remaining honey.
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Add fresh thyme leaves.
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Sprinkle with a few extra cranberries and walnuts.
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Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving (2 pear halves).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 44 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 32 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
Nut Information (Q/S)
Q/S = Quantity per Serving
| Nut Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Walnuts | 15 g |
| Almonds | 0 g |
| Cashews | 0 g |
| Pecans | 0 g |
| Pistachios | 0 g |
| Hazelnuts | 0 g |
| Peanuts | 0 g |
| Macadamia nuts | 0 g |
Allergen information: Contains tree nuts (walnuts) and dairy (goat cheese). Check packaged ingredients for possible cross-contact.
Helpful Cooking Tips
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Choose firm pears such as Bosc or Anjou.
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Avoid overly ripe pears because they can become mushy.
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Toast walnuts lightly before adding them for extra flavor.
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Use fresh thyme for a beautiful herbal aroma.
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Add extra honey if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
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Replace goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta if desired.
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For extra crunch, add chopped pecans.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Not recommended because baked pears can become mushy.
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Reheating: Warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
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Serving: Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with Greek yogurt for breakfast.
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Pair with a fresh green salad.
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Add to a holiday appetizer platter.
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Serve with vanilla ice cream for dessert.
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Pair with roasted chicken or turkey as a sweet side dish.
Final Result
Soft, golden roasted pears filled with creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, sweet dried cranberries, and aromatic thyme, finished with a beautiful drizzle of golden honey.
A delicious combination of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy in every bite!