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Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries Recipe

Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries Recipe

4.8 from 15 reviews

These Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries offer a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a warm dessert, the tender pears are filled with crunchy walnuts and tart cranberries, topped with melted creamy brie, and finished with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a comforting yet sophisticated treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit and Nuts

  • 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
  • ⅓ cup chopped walnuts
  • ⅓ cup dried cranberries

Cheese and Dairy

  • 6 ounces brie cheese, rind on or trimmed (cut into small wedges)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Sweeteners and Spices

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Garnish

  • Fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pears: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the pears in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the cores using a spoon or melon baller to create a small well for filling.
  2. Arrange for Baking: Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Lightly brush each half with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon and a small pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
  3. Add the Filling: Fill the cavity of each pear half with the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries. Drizzle each filled pear lightly with maple syrup to add sweetness.
  4. Bake: Bake the pears for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are tender but still maintain their shape, ensuring they are perfectly cooked without becoming mushy.
  5. Add the Brie: Remove the dish from the oven and place a small wedge of brie on top of each pear half. Return the dish to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes, just until the brie softens and becomes melty but does not completely collapse.
  6. Finish & Serve: Remove the pears from the oven and drizzle with warm honey. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired to add a fragrant herbal note. Serve warm as an elegant appetizer or dessert.

Notes

  • Choose pears that are ripe but firm to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
  • Brie rind is edible, but you may trim it if preferred.
  • Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma but can be omitted for a simpler dish.
  • For a vegan alternative, substitute brie with a plant-based cheese and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
  • Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked pears, brie cheese recipe, walnut dessert, cranberry dessert, elegant appetizer, autumn recipes, cheese and fruit dessert