Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert or snack that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crunchy, you’ve got to try making Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries. This dish is a celebration of autumn flavors, combining the juicy warmth of baked pears with the creamy richness of brie, the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, and the tart pop of cranberries. It’s an easy yet elegant recipe that will impress your guests, make your taste buds dance, and bring a lovely cozy touch to any table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating that perfect flavor and texture harmony from the sweet and soft to the nutty and tangy.

• 4 ripe but firm pears: Choose pears that are ripe enough to become tender when baked but firm enough to hold their shape.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: A quick brush to keep the pears fresh-looking and add a subtle brightness.
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a golden finish while baking.
• 4 oz (115 g) brie cheese, sliced: The star creamy cheese that melts perfectly into the pear halves.
• 1/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped: Adds a satisfying crunchy contrast to the smooth brie and soft pears.
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries: These provide a tart and chewy pop that balances the sweetness.
• 2 tbsp honey: Drizzled on top to intensify the natural sweetness and add a sticky glaze.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the fruit and cheese beautifully.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially balancing the sweetness and richness.
• Optional garnish – fresh thyme or rosemary: Adds a fragrant herbaceous note to finish.

How to Make Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right for roasting the pears slowly enough to caramelize their natural sugars without turning mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

Halve and core your pears, keeping the skin on for texture and color. Place the pear halves cut-side up in a lined or greased baking dish. To prevent browning and add a subtle tang, brush each pear lightly with lemon juice, then drizzle with olive oil or melted butter for a beautiful golden finish as they bake.

Step 3: Season the Pears

Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the pears and add a tiny pinch of salt. These seasonings enhance the flavors by bringing warmth and depth that pair remarkably with both the fruit and cheese.

Step 4: Fill with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

Stuff each pear half with sliced brie, allowing it to nestle into the orchard’s natural bowl. Top generously with chopped walnuts and dried cranberries to add texture and a burst of flavor that’s utterly irresistible once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven uncovered and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The pears should be tender but still hold their shape, and the brie should be beautifully melted and gooey, mingling with the nuts and cranberries for a harmonious bite.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, drizzle the warm pears with honey for a glossy, sweet finish, and sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary if you’re using herbs. These Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries are charming served warm as a sophisticated dessert or a tasty appetizer that’s sure to start any meal right.

How to Serve Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

Garnishes

Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves bring a beautiful aroma and subtle Earthy notes that complement the creamy and fruity flavors. A little extra honey drizzle not only looks lovely but enhances the natural sweetness. For a bit of added crunch, a sprinkle of toasted walnuts on top just before serving works wonders.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with light, savory accompaniments. Consider serving alongside a peppery arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the richness. Crusty bread or crackers also make great partners, inviting you to scoop up every last bit of gooey brie and fruit.

Creative Ways to Present Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries

Try serving these baked pears on a wooden board for a rustic vibe or place them in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Adding a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds brings an extra burst of color and juicy sweetness. You could also pair them with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling cider to elevate your gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 2 days, but fresh is always best to enjoy the textures and flavors at their peak.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries because the texture of the pears and cheese can suffer. The pears may become mushy and the brie’s creamy texture can change after thawing, so it’s best to enjoy freshly baked whenever possible.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pears in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes to warm gently without overcooking. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture and avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pears for this recipe?

Absolutely! Varieties like Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou work wonderfully as long as they are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape when baked.

Is there a substitute for brie cheese?

If brie isn’t available, a creamy Camembert or even a mild goat cheese can provide a similar melt and flavor profile that complements the pears nicely.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Replace brie with a plant-based creamy cheese alternative, use vegan butter or olive oil, and swap honey for maple syrup. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

Can this dish be served cold?

While it’s best enjoyed warm to savor the melted brie and soft pears, you can serve leftovers at room temperature for a different but still delicious experience.

What wines pair well with Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries?

Crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or lightly oaked Chardonnay complement the fruit and cheese beautifully. Sparkling wines or a fruity rosé also make excellent pairings.

Final Thoughts

Baked Pears with Brie, Walnuts, and Cranberries is one of those dishes that’s deceptively simple yet utterly charming. It’s a joy to make and a delight to eat, whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or treat yourself to a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved favorite you’ll want to revisit again and again.