Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears

Juicy pears meet rich blue cheese and toasted walnuts in this effortless yet stunning appetizer perfect for impressing guests or elevating a quiet dinner. The tang of balsamic and aroma of honey bring each bite to life making this dish just as beautiful as it is delicious.

The first time I made this was for a holiday feast with friends and it disappeared in minutes. Now it is my go to whenever I want a dish that feels special with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• Ripe pears: Provide a juicy sweet base. Choose fruit that yields slightly to pressure but is not mushy for best results.
• Blue cheese: Adds creamy tangy flavor. Look for a well veined variety with a creamy texture.
• Walnuts: Offer a rich crunch. Toasting them brings out a deeper nutty taste use fresh nuts to avoid bitterness.
• Honey: Brings natural sweetness and floral notes. Opt for a thick amber honey for the best drizzle.
• Balsamic vinegar: Lends acidity to balance the richness. Use a high quality aged balsamic for complex flavor.
• Ground black pepper: Lifts all the other flavors and adds gentle heat.
• Fresh thyme: Offers a fragrant herbal touch. Pluck sprigs from a living plant if possible for freshness.

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the pears:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Slice each pear in half lengthwise and remove the cores using a melon baller or small spoon. Place the halves cut side up on the baking sheet.

Mix the filling:

In a medium mixing bowl blend together the crumbled blue cheese toasted chopped walnuts and honey. Combine until everything is evenly integrated. This creates a well balanced filling with pockets of cheese and crunch.

Fill and season the pears:

Spoon generous portions of the filling into the hollowed out center of each pear half. Press the mixture down gently to ensure the filling stays put while baking.

Add final touches and bake:

Drizzle balsamic vinegar evenly over the stuffed pears. Sprinkle each with a pinch of ground black pepper for a savory pop. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The pears should be tender but still hold their shape and the cheese bubbling gently on top.

Garnish and serve:

Remove the pears from the oven and transfer to a platter. Drizzle a little more honey over each half and top with a sprig of fresh thyme. Serve the pears warm for the best aroma and flavor.

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Blue cheese is always my favorite in this dish for its luxurious creaminess. My family loves when we make this together especially because everyone can help fill the pears and add their own swirl of honey on top.

Storage tips

Leftover stuffed pears can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat simply place them in a warm oven until just heated through. For best flavor let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can alter the cheese texture.

Ingredient substitutions

If blue cheese is too strong for your taste try a blend of goat cheese and cream cheese for a milder flavor still rich and creamy but gentler. Pecans can take the place of walnuts if you want a slightly sweeter note or if that is what you have on hand. Maple syrup can be a substitute for honey bringing its own subtle earthiness.

Serving suggestions

These pears make a fabulous starter when served on a bed of peppery arugula drizzled with a little extra balsamic. For a brunch twist try pairing with crusty bread and roasted grapes. I have also shared these as a cheese course between salad and entree and guests always ask for seconds.

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Cultural context

The combination of fruit and cheese dates back to ancient times with both pears and blue cheese originating from Europe. This recipe takes inspiration from classic pairings found in French and Italian cuisine translating centuries of tradition into a modern elegant appetizer. It is a simple way to honor the marriage of sweet fruit and bold cheese at your table.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pears work best?

Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to ensure they hold their shape during baking.

→ Can I substitute the blue cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or gorgonzola can be used for a milder or slightly different flavor profile.

→ Should I serve this hot or cold?

This dish is delicious served warm from the oven, but it also tastes great chilled or at room temperature.

→ Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?

Absolutely—pecans add a slightly sweeter, buttery crunch that pairs nicely with the other ingredients.

→ How should I garnish the finished pears?

Garnish with a drizzle of honey and a sprig of fresh thyme for visual appeal and extra flavor.