Sweet and Savoury Pear & Gorgonzola Pecan Pie
Pear and Gorgonzola Pecan Pie is a beautifully balanced sweet and savory dish that brings together juicy ripe pears, creamy gorgonzola, and toasted pecans in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether served as a sophisticated appetizer or a unique dessert, this pie is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you want to impress with bold flavors.
Why Pear, Blue Cheese, and Pecans Work So Well Together
The secret behind this pie’s irresistible flavor lies in the contrast of textures and tastes. The natural sweetness of ripe pears pairs perfectly with the sharp, tangy flavor of Gorgonzola (or any blue cheese), while pecans add a satisfying crunch and warm nuttiness. It’s a restaurant-worthy combination that you can easily make at home.
Cheese Substitutions for Gorgonzola
If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite or isn’t available, try one of these alternatives:
- Roquefort or Stilton: for a similarly bold blue cheese taste.
- Goat cheese: for a creamy, slightly tangy flavor.
- Feta cheese: for a milder, crumbly option.
These substitutes all work well with pears and pecans, keeping that sweet-savory harmony intact.
Topping & Garnish Ideas
Elevate your pie with these garnishes:
- Honey drizzle: for extra sweetness.
- Balsamic glaze: for depth and tang.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary: for a herbal touch.
- Salted caramel sauce: for dessert lovers.
These additions create visual appeal while enhancing flavor contrast.
How to Store Pear Blue Cheese Pecan Pie
To keep your pie fresh:
- Refrigerate: Once cooled, wrap in plastic or foil and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the crust and filling.
Pear Blue Cheese Pecan Pie – Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp ice water
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the pears and Gorgonzola in a bowl. Set aside.
- In a food processor, combine flour, granulated sugar, butter, and salt. Pulse until crumbly.
- Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until dough forms.
- Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough and place into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Mix brown sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Spread over crust.
- Layer pears and Gorgonzola into the pie crust, then sprinkle with chopped pecans.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until crust is golden and filling is bubbling.
- Cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking a show-stopping side, appetizer, or even a savory dessert, this Sweet and Savoury Pear & Gorgonzola Pecan Pie is a seasonal dish that’s sure to impress. It’s comforting, elegant, and full of bold, contrasting flavors.