Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to the magic of Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries. This delightful recipe brings together the sweet, juicy tenderness of baked pears with the creamy richness of melty brie, the satisfying crunch of walnuts, and the tart pop of dried cranberries. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s simple to prepare but impressive enough to wow guests or elevate a cozy night in. Whether served as an elegant appetizer or a comforting dessert, these baked pears invite you to savor every bite with joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create a memorable dish. Each component plays a special role in balancing sweetness, creaminess, crunch, and aromatic spice that make this recipe shine.

• 4 ripe but firm pears: Choose pears that are juicy yet sturdy enough to hold their shape during baking.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Helps prevent the pears from browning and adds a bright citrus note.
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter: Adds a subtle richness and helps caramelize the pear edges.
• 4 oz (115 g) brie cheese: Sliced to melt beautifully into the pear cavities, providing a creamy texture.
• 1/3 cup walnuts: Roughly chopped for a crunchy texture contrast and a nutty flavor.
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries: Offer a lovely tartness and bursts of color.
• 2 tbsp honey: Drizzled on top to amplify the natural sweetness with floral warmth.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Adds a cozy, warming spice that perfectly complements the pears and cheese.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• Optional fresh thyme or rosemary: For garnish and an herbal aroma that beautifies the final presentation.

How to Make Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to create that perfect tender, warm environment for baking. Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

Halve and core your pears carefully, keeping the lovely shape intact. Arrange them cut-side up in your baking dish. Brush each pear with lemon juice—this little step keeps them looking fresh and prevents browning. Then drizzle or brush with olive oil or melted butter to encourage a golden, caramelized edge.

Step 3: Season the Pears

Sprinkle each pear half with cinnamon and a pinch of salt. The cinnamon brings that warmly familiar spice to the dish while the salt subtly enhances all the sweet flavors, ensuring every bite bursts with complexity.

Step 4: Fill the Pears

Gently nestle slices of creamy brie right into the hollow centers of the pears. Then top with chopped walnuts and dried cranberries. This layering makes sure every bite combines creamy, crunchy, and tart sensations, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the pears uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the pears are tender to the touch and the brie has melted into luscious pockets of cheesy goodness. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is pure heaven!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, drizzle the baked pears with honey to enhance the natural sugars with a glossy, sweet finish. Add fresh thyme or rosemary leaves if you have them on hand for that extra touch of herbal fragrance and flair. Serve warm as a stunning dessert or an elegant appetizer that feels effortlessly sophisticated.

How to Serve Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary not only brighten the flavor profile but also create a beautiful, inviting appearance. A drizzle of extra honey right before serving adds a shiny, sweet topping that immediately tempts the eye and palate. Consider a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt to heighten all the flavors and make each bite pop.

Side Dishes

Pair these baked pears with a crisp green salad featuring peppery arugula or mixed baby greens dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. For a more indulgent approach, serve alongside crusty toasted baguette slices or a nutty whole-grain cracker to scoop up the soft cheese and savory-sweet filling. They also complement a glass of chilled white wine or a light sparkling beverage beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve the baked pears in individual ramekins or on small plates garnished with fresh herbs and a honey drizzle. You can even hollow out a larger pear and fill it with the toppings for a charming centerpiece. Another idea is to serve alongside a creamy ricotta or mascarpone dollop for extra indulgence, or drizzle a balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet contrast that takes the presentation up a notch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though they rarely last long), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The flavors develop even more in the fridge, but to enjoy the best texture, reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can change the texture of the pears and the creamy brie. If you want to prepare ahead, it’s better to freeze the pears before baking and assemble and bake fresh when ready.

Reheating

To reheat leftover baked pears, place them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent the pears from becoming mushy and to keep the cheese gooey and delightful.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of brie?

Absolutely! While brie is perfect for its creaminess and mild flavor, you can substitute with camembert or a soft goat cheese for a different but equally delicious result.

What variety of pears works best for this recipe?

Choose pears like Bosc, Anjou, or Comice that hold their shape well during baking but are ripe enough to be tender and juicy.

Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes! Swap the brie for a plant-based cheese that melts well, use maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure the walnuts and cranberries are unsweetened and unprocessed for a vegan delight.

Is this dish suitable for serving as a main course or only as an appetizer/dessert?

It’s typically an appetizer or dessert, but paired with a fresh salad or some grain like quinoa, it can be a light vegetarian main course perfect for a special occasion.

How spicy is the cinnamon in this recipe? Can I omit it?

The cinnamon adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the sweet pears but isn’t overpowering at all. If you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or replace with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a different take.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this recipe for Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries feels like passing along a little treasure that brightens the simplest moments. With its enticing blend of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that’s hard not to fall in love with. I hope you try it soon, savor it slowly, and perhaps share it with someone special—it’s that kind of recipe that turns everyday into a celebration of delicious comfort.

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