Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

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🍐 Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

📝 Description

This elegant dish combines tender roasted pears with creamy melted Brie, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries. It works beautifully as an appetizer, light dessert, or even part of a brunch spread. The natural sweetness of pears intensifies in the oven, while the cheese adds richness and the toppings create contrast in both texture and flavor.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 4 ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Anjou work best)
  • 120 g (4 oz) Brie cheese (rind on or off, your preference)
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Fresh thyme (optional garnish)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Prepare pears
    • Slice pears in half lengthwise.
    • Scoop out the core using a spoon to create a small well.
  3. Arrange in baking dish
    • Place pears cut-side up.
    • Add a small piece of butter in each (optional).
  4. Fill pears
    • Add Brie into each hollow.
    • Sprinkle walnuts and cranberries on top.
  5. Season & drizzle
    • Drizzle honey or maple syrup over each pear.
    • Sprinkle cinnamon and a tiny pinch of salt.
  6. Bake
    • Bake for 20–25 minutes until pears are tender and cheese is melted.
  7. Serve warm
    • Garnish with thyme if desired.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4 (1 pear per person / 2 halves each)

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Choose the right pears: Slightly firm pears hold shape better when baked.
  • Don’t overbake: Too soft and they’ll collapse.
  • Brie choice: Creamier Brie melts better; aged Brie gives stronger flavor.
  • Add crunch last-minute: For extra crisp walnuts, toast separately and add after baking.
  • Balance sweetness: If pears are very sweet, reduce honey slightly.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for tanginess
  • Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds
  • Add a touch of blue cheese for a stronger flavor profile
  • Include fresh cranberries instead of dried for more tartness

🧠 Nutritional Information (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 280–320 kcal
  • Protein: 6–8 g
  • Fat: 16–18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30–35 g
  • Fiber: 5–6 g
  • Sugar: 22–26 g

(Values vary depending on portion and ingredients used.)

  • Pears: High in fiber, good for digestion
  • Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for heart health
  • Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants
  • Brie: Provides calcium and protein (in moderation)

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prep everything and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

Q: Can I use another cheese?
A: Yes—Camembert, goat cheese, or even cream cheese work well.

Q: Are fresh cranberries okay?
A: Yes, but they’ll be more tart—consider adding extra honey.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Q: Can this be made vegan?
A: Yes—use plant-based cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.

🧾 Final Note

This dish looks fancy but is surprisingly simple. It’s ideal when you want something impressive without a lot of effort—great for guests or a cozy night in.

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