These Blue Cheese-Stuffed Pears Are the Pearfect Fall Appetizer!

If you’re anything like me, the arrival of fall stirs up a delightful craving for cozy flavors and seasonal ingredients. This year, one humble fruit has stolen the spotlight in my culinary adventures: pears!

Despite my love for their juicy sweetness, I often forget to pick some up at the grocery store. But that’s about to change, all thanks to a recipe that’s gone viral, making it impossible to resist those luscious pears any longer!

Inspired by the brilliant food creator @dianemorrisey.

Flavor Combinations Beyond Gorgonzola and Walnuts

If gorgonzola and walnuts aren’t your style, fear not! There are plenty of other delicious cheese and topping combinations to explore. Try creamy goat cheese paired with honey-roasted pecans and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy twist. For a more classic approach, sharp cheddar with candied ginger and a sprinkle of cinnamon can create a delightful contrast of flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, blue cheese can be substituted with tangy feta, topped with pistachios and a hint of orange zest for a refreshing citrus note. The possibilities are endless, making pears a wonderfully adaptable canvas for your culinary creativity!

How to Make Blue Cheese-Stuffed Pears

What’s so exciting about these stuffed pears? The flavor combination is nothing short of divine. The creaminess of gorgonzola cheese, the crunch of walnuts, a drizzle of spicy hot honey, and fragrant fresh thyme—all nestled inside the tender sweetness of baked pears. Sounds dreamy, right? Plus, they’re a breeze to whip up!

Here’s how you can recreate this seasonal delight:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Pears: Slice two ripe pears in half and, using a metal measuring spoon (a brilliant tip I picked up from Diane!), scoop out the seeds to create little boats ready for stuffing.

3. Assemble: Place the pear halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Generously sprinkle gorgonzola cheese into the hollowed-out centers, followed by a handful of chopped walnuts for that perfect crunch.

4. Season: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme and cracked black pepper if you like a bit of heat, then pop them in the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melty and the pears begin to caramelize to pearfection, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

5. Finish with Hot Honey: Once they’re out of the oven, drizzle the pears with hot honey to elevate the dish to a whole new level. Serve them warm as an appetizer or over a bed of arugula for a beautiful presentation.

As one enthusiastic commenter on Diane’s post remarked, “I did a version of these as a tarte on puff pastry. It’s a perfect flavor combination. Yum!” This clever twist has me inspired to try it next!

Pears are not only delicious but also a healthy option for snacking and dessert. Their natural sweetness complements both sweet and savory dishes, making them a versatile addition to your fall cooking repertoire. With this simple and mouthwatering recipe, there’s no reason to forget about pears anymore!