Cheese-filled Pears

Cheese-filled Pears Recipe - A Delicious and Creamy Dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cheese-filled pears are a delightful and unique dessert that combines the sweetness of pears with the creamy richness of cheese. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

History

The combination of pears and cheese has been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of this dish appearing in different cultures around the world. This particular recipe puts a modern twist on a classic flavor pairing.

Ingredients

1 can (29 oz / 822 g) of pear halves
1 stick of cinnamon
3 whole cloves
8 oz (227 g) of reduced-fat cream cheese or neufchatel, softened
0.25 cup of honey
0.25 cup of graham cracker crumbs

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Drain the pear halves and set them aside.
In a saucepan, combine the pear juice, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer while you prepare the rest of the dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese and honey. Beat until well blended.
Fill the pear halves with the cream cheese mixture.
Place the filled pear halves in a shallow baking dish.
Strain the juice from the saucepan onto the pears, discarding the cloves and cinnamon stick.
Sprinkle the pears with crumbs.
Bake the pears for 15 to 20 minutes.

Variations

Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the cheese mixture for added texture and flavor.
For a savory twist, substitute the honey with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh herbs.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe but firm pears for this recipe to ensure they hold their shape when filled with the cheese mixture.

- Be sure to drain the pear halves well before filling them to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve cheese-filled pears warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers as a substitute.

- Neufchatel cheese can be replaced with cream cheese if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture and fill the pears ahead of time, then bake them just before serving for a quick and easy dessert option.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cheese-filled pears on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cheese-filled pears pair well with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of hot tea for a cozy and indulgent treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cheese-filled pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cheese-filled pears contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cheese-filled pears contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cheese-filled pears contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of cheese-filled pears contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pears are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, while cheese provides calcium and protein.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Cheese-filled pears are a delicious dessert option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cheese-filled pears are a delicious and elegant dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With a creamy cheese filling and a hint of sweetness from honey, this dish is a perfect way to end a meal on a high note.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Cheese-filled Pears. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mrs. Jenkins for a cup of tea. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on our tea and chatting about this and that, she suddenly got up and rummaged through her recipe box. "I have just the thing to show you," she said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

Mrs. Jenkins pulled out a tattered old recipe card, yellowed with age and stained with splatters of ingredients past. On it was written in elegant script: Cheese-filled Pears. I had never heard of such a dish before, and I was intrigued. Mrs. Jenkins explained that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, and she was thrilled to share it with me.

The recipe called for ripe pears, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a handful of spices. It seemed simple enough, but the combination of ingredients was unique and intriguing. Mrs. Jenkins walked me through the steps, showing me how to carefully hollow out the pears and mix the cheese filling just right. As the dish baked in the oven, the sweet scent of pears and melted cheese filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the Cheese-filled Pears were finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins placed a steaming dish in front of me. The pears were golden and glistening, the cheese bubbling and oozing out of the tender fruit. I took my first bite, and my taste buds were met with a burst of sweet and savory flavors that danced on my tongue. It was a revelation, a perfect union of ingredients that I had never experienced before.

From that moment on, Cheese-filled Pears became a staple in my own kitchen. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepared the dish, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the wonderful day she introduced me to this delightful recipe. It became a cherished tradition, a reminder of the power of sharing food and recipes with loved ones.

Over the years, I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe. Sometimes I sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top for a touch of warmth, or add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. But no matter how I choose to make them, Cheese-filled Pears always bring a smile to the faces of those who taste them.

As I look back on that fateful day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of this recipe. It has brought joy and connection to my family and friends, and has become a part of our shared culinary heritage. And every time I make Cheese-filled Pears, I am reminded of the power of food to bring us together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul.