Introduction

These easy baked pears with feta & honey are a simple yet elegant dessert or appetizer. The combination of sweet, juicy pears, tangy feta cheese, and rich honey creates a delightful flavor balance. For another pear-based treat, try the Baked Pears with Berries Recipe. This warm, comforting dish comes together quickly for any occasion.

Ingredients

The warm, caramelized sweetness of baked pears melds beautifully with the salty tang of feta cheese in this elegant yet simple dish, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This Baked Pears with Feta recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Pears

Wash 4 firm, ripe pears such as Bosc or Anjou. Slice them in half lengthwise and use a melon baller or small spoon to remove the cores and seeds.

Tip: Leaving the stems intact adds a nice presentation touch. If the pears don’t sit flat, slice a thin piece off the rounded side to create a stable base.

Step 2 — Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish just large enough to hold them in a single layer. A 9×13-inch dish works well.

Lightly brush the cut surfaces with olive oil or melted butter to help them caramelize and prevent drying.

Step 3 — Add Sweetener and Spices

Drizzle the pears with 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom if desired.

For deeper flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a few thin pats of butter on top of each pear half before baking.

Step 4 — Bake Until Tender

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pears for 25–30 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.

Doneness cue: The edges will be golden and the juices will be bubbling. Baking time can vary based on pear size and ripeness.

Step 5 — Prepare the Feta Topping

While pears bake, crumble 4 ounces of good-quality feta cheese. For extra flavor, toast ¼ cup of walnuts or pecans and chop them roughly.

Tip: If you prefer a milder taste, use goat cheese instead. For a savory twist, mix in fresh thyme or black pepper with the feta.

Step 6 — Add Feta and Finish Baking

Remove pears from the oven and top each half with crumbled feta and toasted nuts. Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, just until the cheese is slightly softened.

Watch carefully—the feta should not melt completely, just warm through. Overbaking can cause the cheese to become too salty or oily.

Step 7 — Serve Warm

Let the baked pears with feta cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Drizzle with any remaining pan juices and an extra swirl of honey if desired.

These are best enjoyed warm. They make an elegant appetizer, side dish, or light dessert. Garnish with fresh mint or arugula for color.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	7g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Goat cheese instead of feta — Offers a milder, creamier flavor with slightly less sodium while maintaining the tangy cheese profile.
• Ricotta cheese instead of feta — Provides a lighter, less salty option with a smooth, delicate texture that pairs beautifully with baked pears.
• Walnuts instead of candied pecans — Adds crunch and healthy fats without added sugars, perfect for a lower-carb baked pears dish.
• Almond slivers instead of walnuts — A lighter nut option that’s naturally gluten-free and adds subtle crunch with fewer calories.
• Coconut yogurt instead of feta — Creates a dairy-free, tangy alternative that complements the sweetness of baked pears perfectly.
• Maple syrup instead of honey — Provides a different flavor profile while keeping the natural sweetness, suitable for vegan baked pears with feta alternatives.
• Pumpkin seeds instead of nuts — Offers a nut-free, protein-rich crunch that’s perfect for those with allergies.
• Balsamic glaze instead of sugar topping — Adds sophisticated sweetness with lower sugar content and enhances the baked pears’ natural flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted walnuts for a sweet and savory contrast.
• Serve warm alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Pair with a glass of chilled Riesling or Prosecco for an elegant appetizer.
• Crumble additional feta and fresh thyme over the top just before serving.
• Plate on a bed of peppery arugula for a beautiful color contrast.
• Serve as a sophisticated starter for holiday dinners or dinner parties.

These baked pears with feta work wonderfully as both an impressive starter and a light vegetarian main when paired with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using overly ripe pears that turn mushy. Fix: Choose firm, just-ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou for better structure.
• Mistake: Skipping the lemon juice wash, leading to browning. Fix: Lightly brush pear halves with lemon juice to preserve their color.
• Mistake: Overbaking until the pears lose their shape. Fix: Bake just until tender when pierced with a fork, about 20–25 minutes.
• Mistake: Using low-quality feta that doesn’t melt properly. Fix: Select a high-quality, creamy feta or a firm goat cheese for better texture.
• Mistake: Adding the feta too early, causing it to burn. Fix: Sprinkle feta in the last 5 minutes of baking to warm through gently.
• Mistake: Forgetting to balance the sweetness and saltiness. Fix: Drizzle with honey after baking and finish with a pinch of flaky salt.
• Mistake: Crowding the baking dish, which steams instead of roasting. Fix: Arrange pears in a single layer with space between for even caramelization.
• Mistake: Neglecting to preheat the oven for inconsistent cooking. Fix: Always preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for reliable results.
• Mistake: Serving the baked pears with feta straight from the oven. Fix: Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and avoid burning your mouth.
• Mistake: Using a baking sheet without any liquid, risking dryness. Fix: Add a splash of water or white wine to the dish to create a light steam.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store baked pears with feta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Note that texture may soften upon thawing.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (internal temperature of 165°F), about 10–15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure reheated baked pears with feta reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Conclusion

This Baked Pears with Feta recipe is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. We hope you love the sweet and savory combination! Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments. For more delicious desserts, explore our White Chocolate Raspberry Dream Cake Recipe or Peppermint Mocha Wreath Cake Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make Baked Pears with Feta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pears and stuffing in advance. Assemble the Baked Pears with Feta just before baking for the best texture.

What type of pears work best for this recipe?

Firm, ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou hold their shape well when baked. Avoid overly soft varieties for the best Baked Pears with Feta.

Can I substitute the feta cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or blue cheese make good substitutes. The salty, tangy flavor complements the sweet pears in this dish.