This pear crumble is a warm and cozy dessert featuring sweet, juicy pears topped with a crunchy oat and butter mixture. It’s simple yet so satisfying!
Nothing says comfort like a warm dessert fresh from the oven! I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; it’s like a hug in a bowl. Who can resist that? 🍐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pears: Ripe pears are essential for the best flavor. I like using Bartlett or Bosc pears, but feel free to mix varieties! If pears aren’t available, apples or peaches could also work well for a delightful twist.
Granulated Sugar: It balances the pears’ natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try coconut sugar or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount to taste!
Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth. If you want a different flavor, nutmeg or allspice can be tasty substitutes, but use them sparingly as they are stronger.
Unsalted Butter: Cold butter creates that perfect crumble texture. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead, ensuring it’s cold before mixing.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crumble Topping?
The crumble topping is key to this dessert! Achieving that crunchy, buttery layer is simple. Here are a few tips:
- Use cold butter. Cut it into small pieces and add it to the dry ingredients.
- Rub the butter into the mixture with your fingers until you have coarse crumbs. Don’t overmix – some larger chunks are good!
- If you like extra crunch, consider adding a handful of nuts like walnuts or pecans.
With these tips, your crumble topping will be a star on its own!
Delicious Pear Crumble Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 5 medium ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pear crumble recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes of baking. Altogether, you’ll spend just under an hour for a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pear crumble bakes evenly and comes out deliciously golden.
2. Prepare the Pear Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine those beautiful chopped pears with granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently toss everything together until the pears are coated evenly. This bright mixture will become the delicious filling!
3. Spread the Pears:
Take the pear mixture and transfer it into a greased baking dish. Spread the pears out evenly across the bottom so every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Make the Crumble Topping:
Grab another bowl to prepare the crumble topping. Mix together the flour, rolled oats, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. This mixture adds a fantastic crunch on top!
5. Incorporate the Butter:
Now, add the cold diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for that perfect crumble topping!
6. Top the Pears:
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the pears in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the pears well; you want every spoonful to have that crunchy goodness!
7. Bake It Up:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the topping to turn golden brown, and the pears to be bubbly and tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve warm, and if you like, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top!
Enjoy your delicious pear crumble! It’s the perfect comfort dessert for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Pears?
Absolutely! This crumble works well with apples, peaches, or even berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may vary in sweetness, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. This will ensure your crumble is still delicious while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pear filling and crumble topping separately up to a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge, and when you’re ready to bake, assemble them and pop it in the oven!
