Baked Pear with Peanut Butter and Brie 

Cozy, creamy, and effortlessly elegant – this Baked Pear with Peanut Butter and Brie is the ultimate fall dessert. Sweet pears are baked until tender, filled with creamy peanut butter, melted brie, and finished with a drizzle of maple syrup and toasted walnuts. The result? A simple, comforting treat that feels gourmet yet takes only 20 minutes from start to finish.

There’s something special about baked fruit desserts in the fall. When the weather starts to cool and you’re craving something warm, sweet, and comforting- but not overly heavy – this baked pear with peanut butter and brie hits the spot every single time. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both indulgent and wholesome, the kind that fills your kitchen with buttery, nutty, maple-sweet aromas and makes you pause for a cozy moment just for yourself.

Think of this dish as a warm hug in edible form: ripe pear halves, softened in the oven until tender and golden, topped with creamy peanut butter, melty brie, a drizzle of maple syrup, and toasted walnuts for crunch. A few fresh thyme leaves add that elegant savory balance that keeps it from being too sweet. It’s one of those simple, unassuming recipes that surprises everyone who tastes it.

And the best part? You can make it in under 20 minutes. No pastry, no fuss – just the beauty of real, simple ingredients baked to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked pear dessert is the kind of dish that fits anywhere on your fall table – breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a sweet-savory side for a cheese board. The combination of warm peanut butter and brie might sound unusual at first, but once you try it, you’ll understand: it’s absolutely heavenly.

There’s that buttery richness from the brie, nutty warmth from the peanut butter, fresh fruitiness from the pear, and caramel depth from the maple syrup. Every bite hits a perfect balance of flavors.

It’s also one of those recipes that feels special but requires almost no effort – exactly the kind of recipe I love to share. When I first tested this, I honestly didn’t expect it to be as good as it was. I took one bite straight from the baking dish, and it instantly became one of my new fall staples.

If you’re looking for a cozy fall dessert, this baked pear recipe delivers everything: comfort, simplicity, and just a hint of elegance.

The Secret to the Best Baked Pears

When it comes to baking pears, variety matters. I love using D’Anjou pears here because they hold their shape beautifully and become tender without turning mushy. You could also use Bosc pears if that’s what you have – they bake beautifully and have a subtle honey flavor.

Here’s what really makes the magic happen:

• Ripe but firm pears are ideal. You want them to give slightly when pressed but not feel soft. Too soft, and they’ll collapse when baked. Too firm, and they won’t caramelize properly.
• Lemon juice is your friend. It not only prevents browning but also adds a tiny hit of brightness that balances all the warm, rich flavors.
• Bake at 350°F – it’s gentle enough to cook the fruit through while giving the brie time to melt perfectly without burning.

The key is patience: don’t rush the baking time. Let the pears get slightly golden around the edges. That little bit of caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and makes every bite taste like fall.

Peanut Butter + Brie = Unexpected Perfection

Peanut butter and cheese together might raise some eyebrows, but hear me out – this combo works. The saltiness and creaminess of the brie melt into the peanut butter, creating a velvety layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pear.

If you’ve ever had peanut butter on apples or pears, this is the same idea – but warm, elevated, and buttery. It’s the perfect example of how a few everyday ingredients can create something that feels completely gourmet.

And because we’re baking everything together, those flavors mingle into something magical. The peanut butter softens, the brie melts, and the juices from the pear form a natural syrup in the baking dish that’s just irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a handful of simple ingredients bring this cozy dessert to life:

• 1 D’Anjou pear – ripe but firm, for the perfect baked texture
• 1 slice of Brie cheese, cubed – creamy, mild, and luxurious when melted
• 2 teaspoons creamy peanut butter – smooth and slightly salty for balance
• ¼ lemon, juice only – brightens and enhances flavor
• Fresh thyme leaves – subtle herbal note to make it feel restaurant-worthy
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup – adds warmth and natural sweetness
• 1 tablespoon toasted walnuts, chopped – the perfect crunchy finish

Each ingredient plays a role. The pear gives freshness and body; the peanut butter adds richness; the brie gives that creamy melt; the maple syrup ties everything together; and the thyme keeps it sophisticated.

This is why I adore this recipe – nothing complicated, no long list of ingredients, just smart flavor pairing and texture contrast.

How to Make Baked Pear with Peanut Butter

This recipe is pure simplicity. You’ll only need one baking dish and about 5 minutes of prep time.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice and scoop – Cut your pear lengthwise in half, then use a spoon to scoop out the center to make room for the filling.
3. Assemble – Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in a small baking dish. Drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning.
4. Fill – Spread a little peanut butter into the center of each pear half, then top with cubes of brie.
5. Add flavor – Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
6. Bake – Place in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese has melted beautifully.
7. Finish – Top with toasted walnuts and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

That’s it. You don’t need mixers, thermometers, or pastry skills – just a spoon and a baking dish.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Pears

Here are a few of my favorite tricks for getting this recipe just right every time:

• Use room-temperature brie so it melts evenly.
• Warm your peanut butter slightly (10 seconds in the microwave) to make spreading easier.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice – it keeps the flavors bright and the pears looking pretty.
• Toast your walnuts ahead of time in a dry pan for 2–3 minutes; the difference in flavor is huge.
• Serve warm, not hot. Give the pears 2–3 minutes to rest after baking so the cheese firms up just a little – it makes for a better bite.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve made this base recipe, you’ll start dreaming up all sorts of variations. Here are a few ideas I love:

• Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra fall coziness.
• Swap brie for goat cheese if you prefer a tangier twist.
• Top with crushed pecans or pistachios instead of walnuts.
• Drizzle with honey instead of maple syrup for a lighter, floral note.
• Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top – it balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an elegant dessert.

If you’re making this for guests, you can even bake several pears at once and arrange them on a platter with extra thyme and nuts – it looks stunning and tastes even better.

How to Serve It

You can serve these baked pears right from the oven, but I also love letting them cool just slightly so the flavors settle. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature, making them incredibly versatile.

For a cozy dessert, drizzle with extra maple syrup and maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

For a brunch platter, pair them with warm croissants, some brie wedges, and a drizzle of honey – guests will rave about it!

And if you’re making this as a date-night dessert, try plating each pear half on a small dessert plate, adding a drizzle of syrup around it, and a sprig of thyme for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s rare with this recipe!), here’s how to store them:

• Store the baked pears in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• To reheat, place them in a small oven-safe dish and warm at 300°F for about 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pears too soft and the cheese rubbery.

You can also enjoy them cold, almost like a pear cheesecake bite – it’s surprisingly delicious the next morning with coffee.

Pairing Ideas

This baked pear with peanut butter pairs beautifully with:

• A chai latte or spiced tea for cozy afternoons.
• Hot apple cider for a perfect fall treat.
• White wine or dessert wine, like Riesling, if you’re serving it as a dinner finale.

If you’re planning a fall dinner, imagine serving this after a roasted chicken or butternut squash risotto – it’s the perfect elegant, easy-baked dessert that doesn’t require fuss but leaves a lasting impression.

Why This Recipe Works

The genius of this baked pear recipe is in the balance of flavors and textures:

• The pear brings freshness and subtle sweetness.
• The peanut butter adds depth, warmth, and creamy texture.
• The brie melts into a luxurious, savory-sweet layer.
• The maple syrup ties everything together with a touch of caramel sweetness.
• The thyme and walnuts bring texture and sophistication.

Together, they create something greater than the sum of their parts. Every bite gives you a little bit of soft pear, melted cheese, nutty peanut butter, and that sweet maple drizzle – it’s cozy perfection.

When to Make It

This recipe shines during fall and winter, when pears are in season and you’re craving something warm and comforting. But honestly? I’ve made this in the spring too, and it’s just as good.

It’s ideal for:

• A weeknight treat that feels indulgent but is secretly wholesome.
• A brunch centerpiece alongside pancakes or oatmeal.
• A romantic dessert for two – elegant, quick, and full of charm.
• A holiday spread, because it looks stunning and tastes like fall in a bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pear?
Yes! Bosc pears are a great option – they hold up beautifully in the oven. Bartlett pears can work too, but make sure they’re slightly firm or they’ll soften too quickly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute brie with a dairy-free soft cheese or skip it entirely and sprinkle crushed nuts or a drizzle of coconut cream for richness.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
You can assemble the pears a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.

What if I don’t have thyme?
Use a light sprinkle of cinnamon or rosemary instead – both work well.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Yes, but smooth peanut butter melts more evenly and gives that glossy finish.

The Story Behind This Recipe

This recipe actually came from a moment of curiosity. I had one ripe pear left on the counter, a small piece of brie in the fridge, and a jar of peanut butter that I use for everything from toast to snacks. I thought – why not combine them?

The first version was simple: pear, peanut butter, and a drizzle of honey. Then I added brie the second time and realized it changed everything. That creamy, melted brie against the nutty peanut butter created this irresistible flavor that felt comforting and indulgent all at once.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels like home – imperfect, intuitive, and cozy. The kind you make in socks on a slow weekend morning, with soft music and coffee brewing in the background.

That’s what I love most about it: it’s not a complicated dessert, but it makes you feel like you treated yourself!

More Cozy Fruit Dessert Ideas

If you love this baked pear recipe, here are a few other cozy favorites you might want to try next:

• Baked Gorgonzola Pear with Plum Jam and Walnuts – another sweet-savory dessert that’s stunningly simple.
• Baked Brie Pear with Honey, Rosemary & Pine Nuts – the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and herby flavors.
• Warm Pear and Gorgonzola Toast  – perfect for when you crave that balance of creamy and fruity.

Baked Pear with Peanut Butter & Brie

Sweet, creamy, and perfectly cozy – this baked pear with peanut butter and brie is the ultimate fall treat. Tender roasted pear halves filled with melty brie, nutty peanut butter, toasted walnuts, and maple syrup create a warm, elegant dessert that feels indulgent but is effortlessly simple to make.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 2 halves

Course: Appetizer, Dessert

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 ripe D’Anjou pear halved and cored
• 1 slice Brie cheese cubed
• 2 tsp creamy peanut butter
• ¼ lemon juice only
• Fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp toasted walnuts chopped

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the pear in half lengthwise and scoop out the center using a spoon.
3. Arrange pear halves, cut side up, in a small baking dish and drizzle with lemon juice.
4. Fill each half with peanut butter, top with cubes of brie, and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
6. Remove from the oven, then top with toasted walnuts and a drizzle of maple syrup.
7. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, sweet-savory perfection.

Notes

 

• Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture.

• Warm your peanut butter slightly so it spreads easily.

• Don’t skip the lemon juice—it keeps the flavors balanced.

• Serve as a dessert, brunch dish, or sweet snack with tea or coffee.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!