01 -
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, grab those pears. Give them a good wash, slice them in half lengthwise, and with a small spoon or melon baller, carefully scoop out the core. You want to create a little well for the filling, but don't go too deep or you'll poke through! I once got a bit overzealous and had blue cheese leaking everywhere. Trust me, it’s not a pretty sight.
02 -
While the oven is heating, spread your walnut halves on a small baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, keeping a super close eye on them. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a flash! You’ll smell that lovely nutty aroma when they're ready. Let them cool a bit, then give them a rough chop. This step, honestly, makes such a difference in flavor, don't skip it!
03 -
In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, chopped toasted walnuts, honey, and fresh thyme. Give it a good mix with a fork until everything is nicely incorporated. This is where you can really smell all those incredible aromas coming together – the sharp cheese, sweet honey, earthy walnuts. I sometimes add a tiny pinch more thyme here, just because I love it!
04 -
Now for the fun part! Gently spoon the blue cheese mixture into the hollowed-out pear halves, mounding it slightly. Don't be shy, really get that filling in there! Place the stuffed pears cut-side up on a baking sheet. Melt that tablespoon of butter and brush it lightly over the pear flesh. A little salt and pepper now, and they're almost ready for their oven spa day.
05 -
Slide those beautiful Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork, and the blue cheese filling is bubbly and lightly golden. Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on them. You want tender, not mushy, pears!
06 -
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears cool for just a few minutes – that cheese will be super hot! Serve them warm, maybe with an extra drizzle of honey if you're feeling fancy, or a tiny sprig of fresh thyme for garnish. The smell of the warm pears and melting cheese is just divine, a real treat for the senses!