Baked pears with goat cheese and cranberries on a plate

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries is a delightful dish that brings a perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether as a dessert or a fancy appetizer. The combination of soft, warm pears with rich goat cheese and tart cranberries creates a unique taste that will impress your family and friends.

How to Make Baked Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries

Ingredients:

4 ripe pears
1 cup goat cheese, softened
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cut the pears in half and scoop out the core.
In a bowl, mix the goat cheese, cranberries, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff each pear half with the cheese and cranberry mixture.
Place the stuffed pears on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little extra honey.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender and golden.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve Baked Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries

Serve Baked Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries warm for the best experience. These pears can be a great starter dish at dinner parties or a comforting dessert. They pair well with a light salad or some crusty bread. You can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweeter treat.

How to Store Baked Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Baked pears can last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at a low temperature until warm.

Tips to Make Baked Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries

Choose ripe but firm pears for the best texture.
Experiment with different types of cheese; feta or blue cheese can add interesting flavors.
Add some nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutrition.
Drizzle some balsamic glaze on top just before serving for a unique twist.

Variation

You can adapt this recipe by using different fruits, like apples or peaches. The cheese can be swapped for a cream cheese mixture if you prefer a different flavor profile. You can also try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy taste.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but you may want to reduce the amount of honey as dried cranberries are usually sweeter.

Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed pears ahead of time and bake them just before serving.

Can I freeze Baked Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries?
Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture of the pears may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh!