Introduction

This Baked Pears with Feta Honey and Cranberries recipe is simple & delicious, combining sweet and savory flavors for an elegant yet easy dessert. The warm, tender pears pair beautifully with creamy feta and tart cranberries, all drizzled with honey. For more delightful treats, try the Heavenly Peach Cobbler Poke Cake Recipe or Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups Recipe.

Ingredients

These sweet roasted pears with tangy feta and chewy cranberries create a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that’s both elegant and comforting.

• 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
• Optional: chopped walnuts for garnish

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Dough

Combine flour, yeast, salt, and warm water in a large mixing bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Tip: Use water between 105–115°F (40–46°C) to activate yeast without killing it.

Step 2 — Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Tip: The dough is ready when it springs back slowly after poking.

Step 3 — First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours.

Tip: The dough should double in size. Test by pressing two fingers into it—if the indent remains, it’s ready.

Step 4 — Shape the Dough

Punch down the dough and divide into equal portions. Shape each into a smooth ball or loaf.

Tip: For even baking, weigh portions with a kitchen scale.

Step 5 — Second Rise

Place shaped dough on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Tip: The dough should not spring back when gently pressed.

Step 6 — Preheat and Score

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Score the top of each loaf with a sharp knife or lame.

Tip: Scoring helps control expansion and gives a professional finish.

Step 7 — Bake the Bread

Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Tip: For a crisp crust, place a pan of water in the oven during baking.

Step 8 — Check for Doneness

Insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of the loaf. It should read 190–210°F (88–99°C).

Tip: If the crust browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 9 — Cool Completely

Transfer bread to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing—about 1–2 hours.

Tip: Slicing warm bread can make it gummy. Patience ensures perfect texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories	…
Protein	…
Carbohydrates	…
Fat	…
Fiber	…
Sodium	…

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean ground turkey — A lighter protein alternative with a mild flavor that absorbs seasonings well
• Cauliflower rice — Lower-carb substitute with a neutral taste that pairs with various cuisines
• Coconut milk — Creamy dairy-free option adding subtle sweetness and tropical notes
• Tamari sauce — Gluten-free soy sauce alternative with rich umami flavor
• Nutritional yeast — Cheesy flavor without dairy, perfect for sprinkling over dishes
• Zucchini noodles — Fresh, low-carb pasta substitute with delicate texture
• Herb-infused oils — Flavorful low-sodium alternative to salt-heavy seasonings
• Lentils — Plant-based protein with earthy notes and satisfying texture

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a light lunch.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a cozy, comforting dinner.
• Perfect for picnics and potlucks, as it travels well and can be served at room temperature.
• Elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
• Ideal for festive gatherings, pair with a selection of cheeses and charcuterie.
• For a summer barbecue, serve as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats.

These serving ideas will help you showcase this dish for any occasion, from a casual family meal to an elegant dinner party.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan. Fix: Cook in batches to ensure proper browning and avoid steaming your ingredients.
• Mistake: Not preheating your cooking surface. Fix: Always allow your pan or oven to reach the correct temperature before adding food for a better sear and texture.
• Mistake: Underseasoning or seasoning too late. Fix: Season in layers throughout the cooking process to build a more complex and developed flavor profile.
• Mistake: Using the wrong oil for high-heat cooking. Fix: Choose oils with a high smoke point, like avocado or refined peanut oil, to prevent burning and off-flavors.
• Mistake: Constantly stirring or flipping food. Fix: Let food develop a crust by leaving it undisturbed for a few minutes, which is key for a perfect sear.
• Mistake: Not tasting as you go. Fix: Taste your dish at various stages to adjust seasoning and balance flavors before serving.
• Mistake: Overmixing batters and doughs. Fix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which leads to toughness.
• Mistake: Ignoring ingredient temperature. Fix: Use room-temperature ingredients like eggs and butter for baking to ensure proper emulsification and aeration.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Keep in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Always cool food to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to maintain quality and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

These baked pears with feta, honey, and cranberries make a stunning, easy dessert or appetizer. We hope you love this sweet and savory combination—give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe in advance. Follow the instructions up to the final cooking step, then store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep.

What are some good substitutions for the main ingredient?

You can easily swap the main ingredient for a similar alternative. For example, try using chicken instead of beef, or zucchini noodles in place of pasta. This flexibility helps you adapt the recipe to your dietary needs.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. This ensures your meal stays delicious.