The Hidden Pearl: Poached Pear in Brie Lava Recipe
The Hidden Pearl is a stunning dessert that combines the elegance of poached pears with the richness of melted Brie, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry. This showstopper is sure to wow your guests with its delicious flavors and beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus cooling)
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minute
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Poached Pear
- 1 firm pear (like Bosc or Anjou), peeled
- 250ml red wine 🍷
- 2 tbsp honey or sugar 🍯
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 2 strips orange peel
- Optional: 2 cloves or splash of vanilla
For the Brie Core
- 1 small wheel of Brie (around 150–200g)
- Optional: small handful of chopped walnuts or dried fruit under the Brie
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: flaked salt or turbinado sugar on top for contrast
For Wrapping
Instructions
- Poach the pear: Combine wine, honey, spices, and orange peel in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and poach pear gently for 15–20 min until ruby red and tender. Let cool in liquid.
- Slice the base of the poached pear to stand flat. Chill until firm and dry on the surface.
- Slice Brie horizontally. Place bottom half in center of puff pastry. Set pear on top. Cover pear with top Brie layer.
- Fold pastry up and around the Brie and pear, sealing it like a dome. Trim and press seams. Chill 15–20 min.
- Brush with egg wash. Optionally, add pastry decorations or sprinkle with sugar/salt.
- Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 min or until puffed, golden, and bubbling slightly.
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Slice with a sharp knife to reveal the molten center and standing pear.
Keywords: Poached Pear, Brie, Puff Pastry, Dessert, French Cuisine