Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping appetizer that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant, the Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle is your new best friend. This delightful dish balances tender, caramelized pears with the creamy richness of burrata, all lifted by a sweet and tangy maple balsamic drizzle. The crunchy nuts and fresh herbs add texture and depth, making every bite an adventure. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in, this board is all about simple ingredients coming together for a memorable flavor experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each component plays a crucial role in creating those irresistible layers of flavor and texture. From juicy, roasted pears to nutty crunch and creamy cheese, every element contributes to the magic.
- 2 ripe pears, halved and cored: Look for ripe but firm pears to roast until tender and caramelized for natural sweetness and softness.
- 8 oz (225g) burrata cheese: The star of creaminess on the board, burrata adds a luscious and delicate richness that contrasts beautifully with the pears.
- ¼ cup roasted pecans or walnuts: Toasted nuts bring a satisfying crunch and earthiness to balance the cream and fruit.
- ¼ cup fresh figs or grapes (optional): A pop of freshness and juiciness to brighten the board and add visual appeal.
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices: Perfect for scooping and pairing with the soft cheese and roasted fruit.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup: Adds a rich, sweet note to the balsamic drizzle that complements the pears perfectly.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Brings tang and depth, cutting through the sweetness and cheese for balance.
- 1 tsp olive oil: Helps emulsify the drizzle and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs: Herbal fragrance and a gorgeous garnish to elevate the overall presentation.
- Flaky sea salt: A final seasoning touch that enhances every flavor on the board.
How to Make Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle
Step 1: Roast the Pears
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pear halves cut side up on a baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced evenly. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes until the pears soften and develop a slight caramelized golden hue. This roasting process intensifies their natural sweetness while keeping them tender enough to pair wonderfully with the burrata.
Step 2: Prepare the Maple Balsamic Drizzle
While the pears roast, whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil in a small bowl. This simple but flavorful dressing adds the perfect harmony of sweetness and tang to the board, making it truly stand out.
Step 3: Assemble the Board
Once the pears are out of the oven and slightly cooled, lay them out on your serving board alongside generous portions of burrata cheese. Scatter the roasted pecans or walnuts, and if you’re using fresh figs or grapes, place them here too. Add your crackers or toasted baguette slices to one side for easy pairing.
Step 4: Drizzle and Garnish
Drizzle the maple balsamic mixture generously over the pears and burrata. Sprinkle flaky sea salt across the board to enhance the flavors, then add sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant and stunning finishing touch.
How to Serve Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary not only provide an aromatic boost but also present a beautiful contrast against the creamy cheese and golden pears. Flaky sea salt is essential here—it draws out the sweetness of the fruit and intensifies every rich, creamy bite.
Side Dishes
This Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle shines as a centerpiece, but you can pair it with light salads, crusty bread, or even a crisp white wine to complement the flavors. It’s also brilliant alongside a charcuterie spread for an elevated appetizer selection.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching centerpiece, arrange the board on a rustic wooden platter or slate. Varying the heights with small bowls for nuts or figs adds dimension. Experiment with adding edible flowers or a drizzle of honey alongside the maple balsamic for extra visual interest and flavor notes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap the burrata separately in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the roasted pears and nuts in separate containers to retain their textures, and combine everything just before serving.
Freezing
This board doesn’t freeze well due to the delicate texture of the burrata and roasted pears. For best results, prepare it fresh, but you can freeze nuts separately if needed.
Reheating
To gently warm leftover roasted pears, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid heating the burrata—it’s always best enjoyed fresh and at room temperature to maintain its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of burrata?
Absolutely! While burrata’s creamy texture is unrivaled, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be good substitutes if needed, though the richness and creaminess will be a bit different.
Are there alternatives to pears for roasting?
Yes! Apples or quince can work well if you want to switch things up. Just pick fruits that hold their shape but soften nicely when roasted to mimic the texture and sweetness pears provide.
Can I prepare the maple balsamic drizzle in advance?
Definitely! You can whisk the drizzle up to a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before drizzling over the board to recombine the ingredients.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
This recipe relies on burrata, which is a dairy product, so it’s not vegan. However, you could try swapping the cheese with a vegan creamy cheese alternative to make it plant-based.
How long does the assembled board stay fresh?
For the best experience, serve the Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle immediately after assembling. If needed, it can hold for a few hours at room temperature, but burrata and roasted pears are best enjoyed fresh.
Final Thoughts
If you love dishes that combine sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy all at once, then you’ve got to give the Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle a try. It’s easy to make but feels incredibly special—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something a little different. I promise once you try it, it’ll become a beloved go-to for your gatherings and quiet nights alike.
