Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears a sophisticated appetizer that beautifully combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the tangy creaminess of blue cheese. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or any occasion where an impressive and delicious starter is needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple to make but looks stunning on the plate. The flavors are a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and nutty, with a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the natural juiciness of pears. It’s versatile, can be served chilled or at room temperature, and is an instant crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 ripe pears (e.g., Bosc or Anjou)
1/2 cup (120g) blue cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup (60g) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup (30g) toasted walnuts or pecans, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
Directions
Prepare the Pears:
Wash and dry the pears. Slice them in half lengthwise.
Using a melon baller or small spoon, carefully scoop out the core and a small portion of the flesh to create a hollow for the filling. Brush the cut surfaces with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the blue cheese, cream cheese, and honey. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Stuff the Pears:
Spoon the blue cheese mixture into the hollowed-out pears, dividing it evenly among the halves.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the stuffed pears with toasted walnuts or pecans. Garnish with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh chives for a pop of color.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8 halves (serves 4 as an appetizer)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Variations
Cheese Substitutes: Try goat cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor if blue cheese is too strong.
Fruity Twist: Add a sprinkle of dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and tartness.
Savory Addition: Include a pinch of black pepper or a dash of balsamic glaze for extra depth.
Nut Options: Swap walnuts or pecans with pistachios or almonds for a different crunch.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cream cheese and skip the blue cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: These are best served fresh or cold; reheating is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the pears.
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FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the filling and hollow out the pears a few hours in advance. I assemble them just before serving to keep the pears fresh.
What type of pears work best?
I prefer Bosc or Anjou pears as they hold their shape well and have a lovely sweetness. Avoid overly ripe pears, as they can become too soft.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely, pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts work well if you don’t have walnuts or pecans.
How do I prevent the pears from browning?
Brushing the cut surfaces with lemon juice prevents oxidation and keeps the pears looking fresh.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
I enjoy serving these pears with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling. Their acidity complements the sweetness and tanginess of the dish beautifully.
Conclusion
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears are a delightful and sophisticated appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, they’re a go-to for any special occasion or casual gathering. The balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors makes this dish a standout on any table.
📖 Recipe:
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Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 halves (serves 4 as an appetizer)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears combine the sweetness of ripe pears with the tangy creaminess of blue cheese, finished with crunchy toasted nuts. This sophisticated appetizer is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or any occasion where an impressive and delicious starter is needed.
Ingredients
4 ripe pears (e.g., Bosc or Anjou)
1/2 cup (120g) blue cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup (60g) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup (30g) toasted walnuts or pecans, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pears
- Wash and dry pears. Slice them in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the core and some flesh using a melon baller or spoon. Brush with lemon juice.
- Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix blue cheese, cream cheese, and honey until smooth.
- Stuff the Pears
- Fill each hollowed pear with the cheese mixture.
- Garnish and Serve
- Top with toasted nuts, a drizzle of honey, and optional chives.
Notes
For a milder cheese flavor, substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or ricotta.
Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for extra color and tartness.
For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese and omit the blue cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Assembly (No Cooking)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 halves (serves 4 as an appetizer)
