Baked pears with feta, honey, and cranberries are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making them an elegant dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a light dessert, or a side dish to impress your guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. The natural sweetness of baked pears, the creamy saltiness of feta cheese, the tartness of dried cranberries, and the rich, sticky sweetness of honey create a balanced and delightful flavor profile.
This recipe celebrates the beauty of simplicity with minimal ingredients, yet the presentation is sure to wow your family and friends. Perfect for the fall and winter months, baked pears make use of seasonal produce and pair beautifully with cozy holiday meals. Their warm, golden hue and indulgent toppings make them feel festive, while the ease of preparation keeps them approachable for everyday cooking.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to something special, baked pears with feta, honey, and cranberries are a dish that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Let’s dive into this easy, elegant recipe and bring a touch of sophistication to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant Yet Simple: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is easy to prepare while still looking and tasting gourmet.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as an appetizer, dessert, or side dish depending on the occasion.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Perfect for fall and winter when pears are at their peak, and dried cranberries are readily available.
- Customizable: The recipe can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegetarian.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber from pears, healthy fats from nuts (optional), and calcium from feta cheese.
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 baked pear half
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 21g
Ingredients
For the Baked Pears
- 2 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Fresh thyme or mint leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pears
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
- Wash the pears thoroughly, then cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and create a small cavity in the center of each pear half.
Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients
- Place the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Brush the pears with melted butter and sprinkle them lightly with cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Fill the cavities of the pears with crumbled feta cheese and dried cranberries, ensuring each pear is generously topped.
Step 3: Bake the Pears
- Drizzle honey evenly over the pears, allowing it to seep into the cavities and caramelize during baking.
- Bake the pears in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until they are tender and the edges are lightly golden. Check for doneness by piercing the flesh with a fork—it should slide in easily but not feel mushy.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
- Remove the pears from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans, and garnish with fresh thyme or mint leaves if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzling additional honey over the top if preferred.
Ingredient Background
Pears
Pears provide the foundation for this dish with their natural sweetness and juicy texture. Varieties like Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett work best because they hold their shape during baking without turning mushy.
Feta Cheese
Feta adds a salty, creamy contrast to the sweetness of the pears and honey. Its crumbly texture makes it easy to sprinkle into the cavities of the pears. For a milder alternative, you can use goat cheese.
Honey
Honey acts as both a sweetener and a glaze, caramelizing during baking to create a sticky, golden coating. Local, raw honey can enhance the flavor with floral undertones.
Dried Cranberries
Dried cranberries add a tart burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey and pears. Their chewy texture provides contrast to the soft baked pears.
Walnuts or Pecans (Optional)
Nuts add crunch and depth to the dish, as well as healthy fats and omega-3s. Toast them lightly before sprinkling for maximum flavor.
Technique Tips
- Choose the Right Pears: Look for pears that are ripe but firm to the touch. Overripe pears may become too soft during baking.
- Uniform Slicing: Cut the pears evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Prevent Browning: Brush the pears with lemon juice if preparing in advance to prevent oxidation.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the pears to avoid overcooking, which can make them mushy and lose their structure.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Individual Servings: Bake each pear half in small ramekins for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Stuffed Puff Pastry: Wrap the pears in puff pastry before baking for a decadent dessert.
- Over Ice Cream: Serve the warm pears with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert.
- Salad Topping: Slice the baked pears and add them to a mixed green salad with balsamic dressing for a savory twist.
Additional Tips for Success
- Even Baking: Use a baking dish that fits the pears snugly to prevent them from tipping over.
- Customizable Toppings: Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta, and try raisins or dried apricots instead of cranberries.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the pears and assemble them in the baking dish up to 4 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Recipe Variations
- Spiced Pears: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon for a spicier flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Replace feta cheese with a plant-based alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey.
- Savory Twist: Use blue cheese instead of feta and replace cranberries with caramelized onions for a savory appetizer.
- Chocolate Pears: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the pears after baking for a decadent dessert.
Freezing and Storing
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
Freezing
To freeze, place baked pears in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Reduce Sweeteners: Use a smaller drizzle of honey or replace it with sugar-free syrup.
- Add More Fiber: Sprinkle flaxseeds or chia seeds on top of the pears before baking.
- Lower Fat: Use reduced-fat feta cheese to cut down on calories.
- No Dairy: Omit the cheese entirely or use a dairy-free substitute.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Holiday Dinner: Serve as a festive side dish or dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Brunch Buffet: Pair with yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit for a wholesome addition to a brunch spread.
- Dinner Party: Present the baked pears as a refined appetizer or light dessert.
- Romantic Dinner: Plate the pears with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sophisticated touch.
Special Equipment
- Melon Baller or Spoon: For scooping out the seeds and creating a cavity in the pears.
- Baking Dish: Ensures even cooking and holds the pears upright during baking.
- Pastry Brush: Ideal for brushing butter or honey evenly over the pears.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, apples or quinces can be used instead of pears. Adjust the baking time as needed. - What cheese alternatives work well?
Goat cheese, ricotta, or even blue cheese can replace feta for different flavor profiles. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace feta with a dairy-free cheese and honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. - Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pears up to 4 hours before baking. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. - What pairs well with baked pears?
Serve them with roasted chicken, pork chops, or as part of a cheese platter. - How do I prevent pears from browning?
Brush the cut sides with lemon juice if preparing in advance to prevent oxidation. - Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, but their tartness may need balancing with extra honey or sugar. - How do I know when the pears are done?
They should be tender but still hold their shape when pierced with a fork.
Conclusion
Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are a deliciously simple yet elegant dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for a variety of occasions, from holiday dinners to romantic evenings, this recipe offers versatility and sophistication in every bite.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer, a light dessert, or a unique side dish, these baked pears are guaranteed to impress. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe makes gourmet cooking accessible to everyone. Try it today and discover the irresistible combination of warm pears, tangy feta, and sweet cranberries, all tied together with a drizzle of golden honey.
PrintBaked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the Baked Pears
- 2 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Fresh thyme or mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pears
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
- Wash the pears thoroughly, then cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and create a small cavity in the center of each pear half.
Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients
- Place the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Brush the pears with melted butter and sprinkle them lightly with cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Fill the cavities of the pears with crumbled feta cheese and dried cranberries, ensuring each pear is generously topped.
Step 3: Bake the Pears
- Drizzle honey evenly over the pears, allowing it to seep into the cavities and caramelize during baking.
- Bake the pears in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until they are tender and the edges are lightly golden. Check for doneness by piercing the flesh with a fork—it should slide in easily but not feel mushy.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
- Remove the pears from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans, and garnish with fresh thyme or mint leaves if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzling additional honey over the top if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked pear half
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 21g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g