Roasted Pears with Cranberry & Goat Cheese

This Roasted Pears with Cranberry & Goat Cheese recipe blends sweet, tart, and savory elements for an elegant autumn or holiday dessert. The warm pears, juicy cranberries, and creamy goat cheese, enhanced by honey and spices, create a sophisticated yet simple dish ideal for cozy gatherings or festive tables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a refined balance of flavors and textures: naturally sweet pears, bursting cranberries, rich goat cheese, and a hint of thyme—all come together effortlessly. With minimal prep and bake time, and just one pan required, it’s an impressive yet easy dessert that feels gourmet without demanding effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons honey

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta)

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)

• Pinch of salt

directions

1. Prep the Oven & Pears
   Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Brush pear halves with lemon juice and arrange cut‑side up in the dish.

2. Make the Honey-Spice Mixture
   In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Brush each pear generously with this mixture.

3. Add Cranberries & Sugar
   Scatter cranberries and brown sugar evenly around and on top of the pears.

4. Roast the Fruit
   Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cranberries begin to burst.

5. Add Goat Cheese & Thyme
   Remove from oven, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and thyme leaves over the pears. Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes to slightly melt the cheese.

6. Garnish & Serve
   Garnish with extra thyme before serving warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 pear halves (serves 4)

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 35 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes

• Approximate calories per serving: 180 kcal

Variations

• Feta Upgrade: Swap goat cheese for feta for a sharper, saltier contrast.

• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans over the pears before serving.

• Spice Variation: Use cardamom or allspice instead of nutmeg for alternative warmth.

• Maple-Honey Glaze: Replace honey with maple syrup to deepen sweetness.

• Boozy Addition: Add a splash of brandy or port to the cranberries before baking.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a preheated 325 °F (165 °C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave individual servings for 30 seconds to revive warmth.

FAQs

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Fresh pears are best for roasting. Canned pears may become too soft and not hold their shape.

What kind of goat cheese works best?

Soft goat cheese offers creamy texture; firmer aged varieties provide more tang. Feta can also be used.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—roast the pears and cranberries ahead, then add cheese and thyme just before serving.

Are frozen cranberries okay?

Yes! No need to thaw; just bake a few minutes longer if the thaw adds extra liquid.

Can this be made vegan?

Yes—substitute butter with coconut oil, use a vegan honey alternative, and replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese.

How do I prevent pears from browning before baking?

Brushing with lemon juice immediately after halving helps prevent oxidation.

Can I roast other fruits this way?

Absolutely—apples, quinces, or figs make excellent alternatives with similar preparation.

What serving dishes are best?

Use an ovenproof dish that fits the pears snugly to contain juices and keep the presentation neat.

How can I make this a plated dessert?

Serve one pear half per plate, add a dollop of vanilla ice cream or mascarpone, and drizzle with pan juices.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double ingredient quantities and use a larger baking dish.

Conclusion

Roasted Pears with Cranberry & Goat Cheese offer a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, creamy, and herbal flavors in one elegant dessert. With minimal effort and maximum elegance, it’s a refined treat suitable for any special gathering or intimate dinner—sure to impress and delight.