Description
These baked pears are filled with creamy blue cheese, toasted walnuts, and honey—then drizzled with balsamic and thyme. A stunning vegetarian appetizer for any gathering.
Ingredients
→ Pears
4 ripe pears, halved and cored
→ Cheese Filling
120 grams blue cheese, crumbled
30 grams chopped walnuts, toasted
15 millilitres honey (plus extra for drizzling)
→ Seasoning and Garnish
15 millilitres balsamic vinegar
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease.
Slice pears in half and carefully remove the cores using a melon baller or spoon. Arrange the halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix crumbled blue cheese, toasted walnuts, and honey until well combined.
Spoon the cheese mixture into the center of each pear half, pressing lightly to fill.
Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the pears and sprinkle with ground black pepper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Remove from oven. Drizzle with additional honey and garnish each pear with a sprig of fresh thyme.
Serve warm for best flavor, or chill and serve as a refreshing appetizer.
Notes
Choose pears that are ripe but firm to avoid collapsing during baking.
For extra richness, blend in a few crumbles of goat cheese with the filling.
These can also be served cold, making them a versatile make-ahead option.
Perfect for holiday appetizers, bridal showers, or elegant snack boards.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: European