Baked Pears Feta Honey Cranberries

Baked pears with feta, honey, and cranberries has changed how I approach easy, elegant desserts and sides for special occasions or cozy gatherings. This naturally gluten free baked pears recipe is ready in just 10 minutes of prep and delivers a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile that feels restaurant worthy. With only 30 to 45 minutes of hands off baking time, you can have a healthy, crowd pleasing treat perfect for quick weeknight desserts or fuss free entertaining.

I first discovered the charm of baked pears with feta one Thanksgiving when I had extra pears and feta cheese on hand, and the result was so creamy and satisfying that my family asked for it again the very next week. Since then, these stuffed pears have become my go to winter dessert, impressing dinner guests with minimal effort. I love how the sweet and tangy combination of feta, honey, and cranberries transforms basic fruit into something truly special every single time I bake them.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou: Best choice as they hold their shape during baking while turning meltingly soft, use firm yet fragrant pears for perfect texture
• Crumbled feta cheese: Provides salty contrast to the sweet fruit, choose high quality or try goat cheese for a tangier option
• Dried cranberries: Add tartness, texture, and a pop of color; golden raisins or dried cherries also work well
• Honey: Brings natural floral sweetness and caramelizes as it bakes, maple syrup can be used for vegan alternative
• Extra virgin olive oil: Offers richness and helps pears stay tender, any mild oil works as a substitute
• Ground cinnamon: Delivers warmth and a subtle spice, nutmeg or cardamom add seasonal variety
• Chopped walnuts: Optional crunch and nutty depth, swap with pecans or omit for nut free
• Salt: Enhances flavors and balances sweet and savory notes, a pinch is all you need

How to Make Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Preheat the Oven for Even Roasting:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so the pears roast gently and toppings caramelize well. Allow at least 10 minutes for preheating to ensure even cooking and to achieve beautiful golden color on the pears and cheese.

Prepare the Baking Dish with a Nonstick Surface:

Line a medium baking dish with parchment paper or coat lightly with nonstick spray. This helps the delicate baked pears release easily, keeping their shape and preventing sticking during serving.

Slice and Core the Pears for Stuffing:

Wash the pears thoroughly, then slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or melon baller to gently remove seeds and core a bit deeper to create a well for filling, but avoid cutting too much to prevent spilling during baking.

Arrange the Pears in the Pan for Stability:

Place the pear halves cut side up in the baking dish, nestling them close together for support. If pears rock, trim a sliver off the bottom to help them sit flat and keep the filling neatly contained.

Mix the Filling for Balanced Texture:

Stir together crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and walnuts in a bowl. Mixing ensures each pear has a balanced combination of creamy, crunchy, and tart flavors for the perfect bite.

Stuff the Pears with Care:

Fill each pear cavity generously with the feta and cranberry mixture, using a spoon and pressing lightly so the filling stays in place without compacting the fruit, which helps the pears bake evenly.

Drizzle and Season for Maximum Flavor:

Pour honey evenly over each stuffed pear, allowing some to seep into the filling and around the edges. Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt to enhance the sweet and savory notes before baking.

Bake Until Tender and Golden:

Bake on the center rack for 25 to 30 minutes, or up to 45 minutes for large or very firm pears. Pears are ready when a fork inserts easily and cheese turns lightly golden. Check every 5 minutes after 30 minutes for optimal tenderness without overcooking.

Cool Slightly Before Serving:

Allow baked pears to rest in the pan for 5 minutes. This helps the filling set and flavors meld, making the texture creamy and easy to serve. Serve warm for best results, or enjoy at room temperature if desired.

My favorite twist was adding toasted pecans instead of walnuts and some minced fresh rosemary, which made the pears extra fragrant and perfect for a holiday brunch. I will never forget the first time I served these as a surprise dessert for my family’s Sunday dinner and everyone reached for seconds. Pears bring a boost of fiber and vitamins, while feta and nuts add satisfying protein, making these baked pears both nourishing and flavorful.

Smart Swaps and Variations

To switch up this baked pears recipe, try using Bartlett or Red Anjou pears for a softer, juicier texture. Substitute classic feta with creamy goat cheese or vegan feta options for dietary preferences. For nut free preparation, pepitas or sunflower seeds can replace walnuts. Use a light drizzle of honey for lower sugar, or opt for dried cherries instead of cranberries for a new flavor. Baked apples with the same stuffing provide a wonderful seasonal variation in the fall, while toasted hazelnuts or fresh rosemary can infuse extra depth and aroma for festive gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Keep baked pears fresh by placing them in an airtight container and refrigerating for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap cooled pear halves individually in parchment and place in a freezer safe container, using within one month for flavor. Reheat in a 300 degree oven for ten to twelve minutes, or microwave on medium in thirty second bursts, until just heated through. Cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess, and use shallow containers to protect the filling and prevent pears from sticking together.

What to Serve with Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

These baked pears pair beautifully with cinnamon spiced granola and thick Greek yogurt for brunch, or serve as a stunning appetizer alongside roasted chicken or pork for a sweet and savory combination. For dessert, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche. They also make an elegant centerpiece on a cheese platter or can be presented with fresh herbs for festive holiday meals. Drizzle extra honey or balsamic glaze just before serving to heighten presentation and flavor for guests.

Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of baked pears with feta, honey, and cranberries offers a nutritious blend of dietary fiber, natural protein, and healthy fats. The pears provide antioxidants and vitamin C, while nuts support heart health. Feta cheese supplies calcium and protein, making this dish filling yet naturally gluten free. Enjoy as a vegetarian option that’s hearty enough for any meal, with each serving averaging around 430 calories and 15 grams protein for balanced nutrition.

Recipe Success Tips

If the pears release too much liquid during baking, simply drain the pan halfway through. Should the filling brown too quickly, tent the dish loosely with foil and continue roasting until the fruit is tender. For pears that remain too firm after the recommended time, bake in five minute increments to achieve the desired softness. Taste your cheese first to adjust salt levels and use a melon baller for neat, even coring and elevated presentation on the table.

This easy baked pears recipe brings elegant flavor and creamy texture to your table in under an hour. Try it for your next weeknight dessert or special gathering and share your twist in the comments!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What kind of pears are best for this dish?

Bosc or Anjou pears work well as they hold their shape when baked and have a sweet, firm flesh.

→ Can I replace feta cheese with another cheese?

Yes, try goat cheese or ricotta for a milder taste or blue cheese for a bold flavor twist.

→ What can I use instead of cranberries?

Chopped dried apricots, raisins, or currants provide a similar tart-sweet contrast.

→ Is it necessary to add walnuts?

No, walnuts are optional but add crunch and earthy depth. You can omit or substitute with pecans or almonds.

→ How should I serve this dish?

Serve warm as a light dessert, brunch feature, or alongside roasted meats for a sweet-savory touch.