There’s something so nostalgic about the smell of baked fruit and spices wafting through your kitchen. Pear Crisp is one of those desserts that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the natural sweetness of pears, enhanced with a crunchy oat topping and cozy spices like cinnamon and ginger. Whether you’re making this dessert for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just a weeknight treat, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Imagine a dessert that combines soft, tender pears with a buttery, golden crisp topping—served warm with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s simple, delicious, and comes together with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s explore everything you need to know about making the perfect Pear Crisp!

Why You’ll Love Pear Crisp

This classic dessert has so much to love! Here’s why it should be on your baking list:

• Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry staples like oats, flour, and sugar, you don’t need anything fancy to create a delicious dessert.
• Showcases Seasonal Fruit: Pears are the star of the show, making this a perfect dessert to highlight their natural sweetness.
• Quick and Easy: Prep takes just 15 minutes, and the oven does the rest of the work.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors or add extras like nuts or raisins.
• Comfort in Every Bite: Warm, spiced pears topped with a buttery oat crumble make this a dish that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients for Pear Crisp

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting dessert:

For the Filling

• 8 medium ripe pears, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

Optional Garnish

• Whipped cream (optional, but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a perfect Pear Crisp:

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Peel and thinly slice 8 medium pears.
3. Toss the sliced pears with 1/4 cup orange juice to prevent them from browning and add a hint of citrus flavor.
4. Spread the pears evenly in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Sugar and Spices

1. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger.
2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pears in the baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder.
2. Add 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed, to the mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the pears.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pears are tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the pear crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving—it will be piping hot straight out of the oven!
2. Serve warm, optionally topped with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280 kcal
Protein	3 g
Total Fat	11 g
Saturated Fat	6 g
Carbohydrates	43 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	23 g
Sodium	90 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Tips for the Best Pear Crisp

1. Choose the Right Pears: Use ripe but firm pears, such as Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc. Overly soft pears may turn mushy when baked.
2. Cut Evenly: Slice the pears thinly and evenly to ensure they bake uniformly.
3. Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is key to achieving a crumbly topping. If the butter starts to soften, pop the mixture in the fridge for a few minutes.
4. Customize the Topping: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or sprinkle in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
5. Don’t Overbake: Check the crisp at 35 minutes. Overbaking can dry out the fruit and make the topping too hard.

Variations to Try

Make your pear crisp even more exciting by trying one of these variations:

• Apple-Pear Crisp: Replace half the pears with sliced apples for a mix of flavors.
• Cranberry-Pear Crisp: Add 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries for a tart kick.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
• Spiced Pecan Topping: Mix chopped pecans and a pinch of nutmeg into the crumble topping.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the crisp before serving for a decadent touch.

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FAQs About Pear Crisp

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pear crisp up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it unbaked. When ready to serve, bake it fresh, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I use canned or frozen pears?

While fresh pears are best, you can use canned pears (drained) or frozen pears (thawed and patted dry) in a pinch. Keep in mind that the texture may be softer.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Cover leftover pear crisp tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze pear crisp?

Yes, you can freeze pear crisp. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

5. What other fruits can I use?

You can substitute pears with apples, peaches, plums, or berries—or mix and match for a multi-fruit crisp!

6. Do I need whipped cream?

While it’s optional, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream adds a creamy, sweet contrast to the warm and spiced crisp, making it even more delicious.

Conclusion: Try Pear Crisp Today!

If you’re craving a dessert that’s warm, comforting, and easy to make, Pear Crisp is the answer. With its spiced pears, buttery oat topping, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is guaranteed to impress your family and guests.

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