Baked Pears with Goat Cheese & Honey

Few recipes manage to feel elegant, cozy, and effortless all at once—but baked pears with goat cheese and honey do exactly that. This simple yet sophisticated dish transforms humble pears into something truly special with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.

Whether served as a refined appetizer, a light dessert, or even a brunch side, baked pears with goat cheese & honey strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The pears soften and caramelize in the oven, the goat cheese turns creamy and tangy, and the honey adds a glossy finish that ties everything together beautifully.

This recipe looks impressive enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a quiet night at home—and that’s exactly why it’s a FoodieRipple favorite.

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Why You’ll Love These Baked Pears

This dish proves that less really can be more.

• Simple ingredients, big flavor
• Naturally gluten-free
• Elegant but approachable
• Perfect for entertaining
• Ready in under 30 minutes

The contrast between warm fruit and cool, tangy cheese creates a texture and flavor experience that feels indulgent without being heavy.

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Choosing the Best Pears for Baking

Not all pears bake the same. For best results, choose pears that are:

• Firm but ripe
• Slightly sweet with good structure

Best varieties include:

• Bosc
• Anjou
• Bartlett (if slightly underripe)

Avoid overly soft pears, which can collapse during baking.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses just a few carefully chosen ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Ripe pears
• Goat cheese (plain or honey-infused)
• Honey
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
• Fresh thyme or rosemary
• Salt
• Black pepper

Each element plays a role: the pears bring sweetness, goat cheese adds tang, honey enhances natural sugars, and herbs provide aromatic contrast.

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How to Make Baked Pears with Goat Cheese & Honey

This recipe comes together quickly and easily.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Slice pears in half lengthwise and scoop out the cores.
3. Arrange pears cut-side up in the baking dish.
4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter and season with a pinch of salt.
5. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until pears are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Spoon goat cheese into the center of each pear half.
8. Drizzle generously with honey.
9. Sprinkle with nuts, fresh herbs, and cracked black pepper.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Pears

Don’t overbake.
You want tender pears that still hold their shape.

Use room-temperature goat cheese.
This makes filling easier and creamier.

Balance sweetness.
If your pears are very sweet, go light on the honey.

Add herbs last.
Fresh herbs stay brighter when added just before serving.

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Delicious Variations

This recipe adapts beautifully:

• Extra indulgent: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze
• Crunchy twist: Use candied nuts
• Savory-forward: Add prosciutto or crispy pancetta
• Dessert-style: Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve with vanilla ice cream
• Dairy-free: Swap goat cheese for almond ricotta

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How to Serve Baked Pears

These pears are incredibly versatile:

• As an elegant appetizer
• Alongside a cheese board
• As a light dessert
• With a green salad
• As a brunch side

They pair wonderfully with sparkling wine, white wine, or warm cider.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make ahead:
Bake pears up to 6 hours in advance. Add cheese and honey just before serving.

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating:
Warm gently in the oven to preserve texture.

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A Simple Dish That Feels Special

There’s something timeless about baked fruit paired with cheese and honey. This baked pears with goat cheese & honey recipe is proof that elegance doesn’t have to be complicated.

With its cozy warmth, beautiful presentation, and balanced flavors, it’s a dish that turns ordinary ingredients into something memorable—perfect for both everyday moments and special occasions.