1. Position a broiler rack 6 in (15cm) from the source of heat and preheat the broiler. Quarter the pears and remove the cores. Place skin side down in a flameproof serving dish. Sprinkle with the blackberries and walnuts. Drop spoonfuls of mascarpone cheese over the pears and sprinkle with the brown sugar.

2. Broil for 3–5 minutes, or until the mascarpone is bubbly and sugar begins to caramelize.

3. Serve warm, with crisp buttery cookies.

Variation: Pear and Raspberry Gratin

Substitute raspberries for the blackberries and granola for the brown sugar.