Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Recipe

Introduction

This recipe for Easy Baked Pears with Feta & Honey is a stunning yet simple dessert or appetizer. Sweet, juicy pears are roasted until tender, then topped with creamy, salty feta, a generous drizzle of honey, and tart dried cranberries. The combination of warm and cool, sweet and savory, creates an elegant dish perfect for any occasion. For more festive baking ideas, try this Christmas Crack Recipe or a classic Gingerbread Loaf Recipe.

Ingredients

This simple yet elegant dish combines the warm, sweet aroma of baked fruit with the creamy, salty tang of feta for a delightful appetizer or side.

• 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, or substitute with pecans)

Timing

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

Context: This simple recipe for Baked Pears with Feta is about 25% faster than many similar baked fruit dishes, as it requires minimal prep and a relatively short bake time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat & Prepare Pears

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, wash 4 firm but ripe pears (like Bosc or Anjou). Slice them in half lengthwise and use a melon baller or small spoon to carefully scoop out the core and seeds, creating a small well in each half.

Step 2 — Arrange and Season

Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish just large enough to hold them snugly. Drizzle each half lightly with honey or maple syrup and a small pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. This base seasoning will caramelize as the pears bake.

Step 3 — Add Liquid to the Dish

Pour about ¼ cup of water, apple juice, or white wine into the bottom of the baking dish. This creates steam in the oven, preventing the pears from drying out and helping them become tender. It also forms the base for a simple pan sauce later.

Step 4 — Initial Bake

Bake the pears on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes. They should be just starting to become tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. The exact time depends on the ripeness and variety of your pears.

Step 5 — Add the Feta

Remove the dish from the oven. Crumble or place small chunks of high-quality feta cheese into the well of each warm pear half. The residual heat will begin to soften the cheese. For extra flavor, you can also add a walnut or pecan half at this stage.

Step 6 — Final Bake & Finish

Return the dish to the oven for 5-8 more minutes, just until the feta is slightly softened and warmed through but not melted completely. The pears should be tender all the way through. For a beautiful finish, drizzle the pears with the syrupy juices from the pan and a final sprinkle of fresh thyme or black pepper.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~220 kcal
Protein	~5 g
Carbohydrates	~32 g
Fat	~9 g
Fiber	~5 g
Sodium	~180 mg

Note: These values are estimates for one serving of Baked Pears with Feta, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual nutrition can vary.

Healthier Alternatives

This classic recipe for Baked Pears with Feta is wonderfully adaptable. Here are simple ingredient swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Goat Cheese for Feta (Tangier) — Offers a creamier texture and a distinct, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet pears.
• Ricotta for Feta (Milder, Creamier) — A great lower-sodium, dairy option that creates a luscious, mild base for toppings.
• Toasted Walnuts for Pecans (Earthy) — Provides a similar crunch with a more robust, earthy flavor and excellent omega-3s.
• Chopped Almonds for Pecans (Lower-Carb) — A slightly lower-carb nut option that adds a delightful crunch and nutty taste.
• Maple Syrup for Honey (Vegan-Friendly) — An easy one-to-one swap to make this dish dairy-free and vegan while keeping the natural sweetness.
• Cinnamon for Mixed Spice (Simpler) — A single, warm spice that is universally loved and can simplify the flavor profile.
• Olive Oil for Butter (Dairy-Free) — A heart-healthy fat that works perfectly for drizzling and adds a fruity note.
• Pomegranate Seeds for Cranberries (Fresh & Lower-Sugar) — Adds a juicy, tart pop and vibrant color with less added sugar than dried fruit.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile baked pears with feta can be enjoyed in countless ways, from a simple starter to an elegant dessert. Here are our favorite ideas for pairing, plating, and serving.

Perfect Pairings

• For a savory appetizer, serve warm alongside a charcuterie board with cured meats, nuts, and crusty bread.
• Transform them into a light lunch or side dish by placing them over a bed of peppery arugula or mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Elevate the dish to a main course by pairing it with a simple roast chicken or pan-seared pork chops.

Occasions & Menus

• This recipe is a stunning, fuss-free starter for a holiday dinner or festive gathering.
• It makes an impressive addition to a brunch spread, served with other savory pastries and quiche.
• Enjoy it as a light, sophisticated dessert after a rich meal, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Plating & Presentation Tips

Presentation is key for these beautiful baked pears with feta. Arrange the pear halves on a large platter or individual plates. Garnish with extra fresh thyme leaves, a crack of black pepper, and a final drizzle of the warm pan juices. For a dessert presentation, a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds wonderful crunch and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using overripe or mushy pears. Fix: Choose firm, just-ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou that will hold their shape during baking.
• Mistake: Skipping the core removal. Fix: Use a melon baller or small spoon to fully scoop out the seeds and tough core for a perfect filling pocket.
• Mistake: Under-seasoning the pears. Fix: Generously season the cavity with cinnamon or nutmeg before adding the feta to build flavor layers.
• Mistake: Using pre-crumbled, dry feta. Fix: Opt for a block of high-quality feta in brine and crumble it yourself for superior creaminess and tang.
• Mistake: Overbaking until the pears collapse. Fix: Bake just until the pears are tender when pierced with a knife, usually 25-35 minutes depending on size.
• Mistake: Not adding a textural contrast. Fix: Finish the baked pears with a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch.
• Mistake: Serving them straight from the oven. Fix: Let the baked pears with feta rest for 5-10 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld and prevents burning your mouth.
• Mistake: Forgetting the balancing element. Fix: Always add a final drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze to cut through the saltiness of the feta.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the baked pears with feta completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the cooled pears (without any fresh garnish) on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated portions in the microwave or a 350°F oven until heated through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Thaw frozen pears overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For the best texture, add any fresh herbs or nuts just before serving your reheated baked pears with feta.

Conclusion

This elegant Baked Pears with Feta recipe is a simple yet stunning dessert or appetizer, perfect for any occasion. The sweet honey, tart cranberries, and creamy feta create a beautiful balance of flavors. I hope you love it as much as we do! If you try it, please leave a comment or rating. For more festive treats, check out our Christmas Crack Recipe or Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

Print

Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Print Recipe

Tender baked pears filled with creamy crumbled feta cheese, tart dried cranberries, and topped with a golden honey drizzle. An elegant and simple dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or light dessert.

• Author: Dorothy Miller
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Method: Appetizer, Side Dish, or Dessert
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Halve the pears and scoop out the cores to create a small well in each half.
3. Place the pear halves cut-side up in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, and fill each center with crumbled feta and chopped cranberries.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the pears soften and the feta starts to melt.
5. Remove from the oven, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with fresh thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Optionally, top with chopped walnuts for added crunch and serve warm.

Notes

This recipe is versatile and can be served warm as an appetizer, a side dish with poultry, or as a light dessert. Do not overbake or the pears will become mushy. For added crunch and richness, walnuts are an excellent optional topping.

Nutrition

• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18
• Sodium: 280
• Fat: 9
• Saturated Fat: 4
• Unsaturated Fat: 5
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 28
• Fiber: 4
• Protein: 6
• Cholesterol: 15

FAQs

Can I prepare Baked Pears with Feta ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead, but assemble just before baking. Core and slice the pears, then toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning. Crumble the feta and mix your spices separately. Assemble and bake when ready to serve for the best texture.

What type of pear is best for this recipe?

Firm, slightly underripe pears like Bosc or Anjou work best. They hold their shape during baking and provide a lovely contrast to the creamy, melted feta. Softer varieties may become too mushy when making Baked Pears with Feta.

Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?

Feta’s salty, tangy profile is ideal, but you can substitute with goat cheese or a mild blue cheese. Avoid very hard or overly melty cheeses, as they won’t provide the same flavor balance that makes this dish special.