We grow pear trees, so I’m always dabbling in pear desserts. In this cheesecake, I sometimes add ¼ cup crystalized ginger for zing. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey


Test Kitchen Tips
  • Pick a mild flavor honey so it doesn't cover up the delicate flavor of the pears. Look for orange blossom, clover or alfalfa honey.
  • Bartlett pears would be our first choice. Their flavor is stronger than most other pears and can stand up to the other strong flavors in this cake.
  • Need to soften cream cheese quickly? Submerge the unopened, foil-wrapped blocks in warm water for 5-10 minutes.
  • To toast nuts, bake in a shallow pan in a 350° oven for 5-10 minutes, or cook in a skillet over low heat until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.