Few dishes capture the beauty of contrasting flavors like Baked Pears with Feta, Honey & Cranberries. It’s a recipe that perfectly bridges the gap between sweet and savory — tender, caramelized pears meet salty feta, tart cranberries, and a drizzle of golden honey. The result? A stunning dish that’s as elegant as it is effortless. I first tried this recipe using wildflower honey, and the floral notes paired beautifully with the warm, juicy pears. It’s an ideal appetizer for special dinners or a light, refined dessert. Whether you’re entertaining or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this dish delivers layers of flavor and texture that feel both comforting and luxurious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a true celebration of seasonal ingredients and simple preparation. The pears bake until they’re soft and aromatic, while the feta melts slightly to create a creamy, tangy balance against the sweetness of the honey. The cranberries add a pop of tartness and color that makes this dish visually stunning. Best of all, it’s versatile — serve it as an elegant starter, a brunch side, or a sophisticated dessert. The contrast of warm pears and cool feta ensures every bite is exciting and perfectly balanced.
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Baked Pears with Feta, Honey & Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Showstopper
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elegant baked pears topped with creamy feta, sweet honey, and tart cranberries — a simple yet sophisticated dessert or appetizer with a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tbsp honey, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Fresh thyme or mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Cut pears in half lengthwise and remove cores using a small spoon or melon baller. Brush cut sides with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Place pears cut side up in the baking dish and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until pears are tender but still hold their shape.
- Remove from oven and top each pear half with crumbled feta and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon (if using). Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes until feta is warm and slightly golden.
- Top with chopped nuts and garnish with thyme or mint. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for the best texture after baking.
- Substitute goat cheese for feta if you prefer a creamier, tangier flavor.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of honey for a savory twist.
- Pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a light dessert with vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Appetizer / Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pears
Choose ripe but firm pears, such as Bosc or Anjou, which hold their shape during baking. Their natural sweetness intensifies in the oven, creating a caramelized, tender texture.
Feta cheese
The saltiness of feta provides the perfect foil to the pears and honey. It softens slightly when warm, adding a creamy, tangy layer that complements the sweetness.
Honey
A generous drizzle of honey ties all the flavors together. I like to use local honey for its rich aroma — it caramelizes beautifully while baking.
Dried cranberries
Tart, chewy cranberries bring a burst of color and flavor contrast. They keep the dish from becoming overly sweet while adding a festive touch.
Olive oil
A light brush of olive oil prevents the pears from sticking to the baking dish and enhances their caramelization.
Walnuts or pecans (optional)
For extra crunch and warmth, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking. Their toasty flavor complements the fruit and cheese perfectly.
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
A sprig of herbs adds a subtle earthy aroma that elevates the dish’s flavor profile and presentation.
Sea salt and black pepper
A small pinch of each enhances the overall balance — even in sweet dishes, a touch of salt and pepper brings harmony.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Slice the pears in half lengthwise and scoop out the cores with a small spoon. Arrange the halves cut side up in the dish.
Brush the pears lightly with olive oil and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and black pepper over them. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pears are tender and slightly golden at the edges.
Remove the dish from the oven and carefully spoon crumbled feta into the center of each pear half. Scatter dried cranberries over the top. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, just until the cheese softens slightly.
Remove from the oven and drizzle again with honey. For added flavor, sprinkle with chopped walnuts and a few fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm, with a small spoonful of the melted honey and fruit from the baking dish drizzled over the top.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pears in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes until just warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pears mushy and alter the texture of the feta. Drizzle with a fresh touch of honey before serving again.
Variations and Customizations
Goat Cheese Upgrade
Substitute feta with goat cheese for a creamier, tangier twist that melts beautifully into the pears.
Nutty Crunch
Add chopped pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different texture and flavor profile.
Spiced Version
Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the pears before baking for a warm, cozy aroma.
Herb-Infused Elegance
Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs before baking to infuse the dish with subtle herbal notes.
Balsamic Glaze Drizzle
Finish the dish with a light drizzle of balsamic reduction for a sweet-tart balance and a gourmet touch.
Vegan Option
Use a plant-based feta and maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan-friendly version.
FAQs
1. What type of pears are best for baking?
Bosc or Anjou pears work best because they hold their shape and have a firm texture that softens nicely when baked.
2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but they will add more tartness and release extra juice during baking. Adjust the honey slightly to balance the flavors.
3. What can I use instead of feta?
Goat cheese, ricotta, or even blue cheese can work depending on your taste preferences.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, bake the pears and reheat gently before serving, then add the feta and honey just before plating.
5. Is this dish served hot or cold?
It’s best served warm, when the pears are soft and the cheese slightly melted.
6. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely — figs or apples make excellent additions for variety.
7. How can I prevent the pears from browning before baking?
Brush them lightly with lemon juice after cutting to keep their color bright.
8. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free feta or omit the cheese entirely and add toasted nuts for richness.
9. Is this recipe suitable for a holiday menu?
Definitely — it’s festive, flavorful, and perfect for autumn or winter gatherings.
10. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly sweet Riesling pairs beautifully with the flavors.
Conclusion
Baked Pears with Feta, Honey & Cranberries is the epitome of refined simplicity — a dish that celebrates the balance between sweet, salty, and tangy in every bite. Its elegant presentation makes it perfect for dinner parties, yet it’s easy enough for a cozy night in. With warm roasted pears, melted feta, and jewel-toned cranberries drizzled in golden honey, this recipe turns humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
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