Baked Pears with Feta, Honey and Cranberries
These baked pears sit right between appetizer and dessert, and that is why I love them on a holiday table. Salty feta and tart cranberries go into each pear half, the oven softens everything, and a drizzle of honey ties it together.
There are only a handful of ingredients and about half an hour of total time, so they are easy to make while something bigger is roasting.
Choosing the pears
Pick pears that are ripe but still firm. Soft pears collapse in the oven and lose their little well of filling. Use a melon baller or a teaspoon to scoop the core and make a small hollow.
Add the honey after baking, not before, so it stays bright instead of burning on the dish. Walnuts are optional, but I like the crunch. Round out the spread with my party appetizers.
PrintBaked Pears with Feta, Honey and Cranberries
Pear halves filled with feta and cranberries, baked until tender and finished with honey and thyme.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- Chopped walnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Halve the pears and scoop out the cores to make a small well in each half.
- Place the pears cut-side up in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and fill each center with feta and cranberries.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the pears soften and the feta starts to melt.
- Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with thyme and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with walnuts if you like and serve warm.
Notes
Firm pears hold their shape best. Serve as an appetizer, a side or a light dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make them ahead?
Prepare the pears and filling a few hours ahead and keep them chilled, then bake just before serving.
What can I use instead of feta?
Goat cheese or blue cheese both work if you want a different tang.
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