Cozy autumn evenings call for desserts that bring warmth and comfort to your soul. Our Pear and Cranberry Crisp does just that – it’s a delightful blend of tender pears, tart cranberries, and a golden, buttery crumble. This recipe is perfect for a family gathering, evoking memories of baking together and celebrating the changing seasons. Let’s dive into this heartwarming dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a cast-iron skillet or an 8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, cranberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until the fruit is evenly coated.
- Transfer the fruit mixture to the prepared skillet or baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the fruit.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
- Let the crisp cool for a few minutes before serving warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Helpful Tips
- For a crunchier topping: Add chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans to the crumble mixture.
- Substitutions: You can substitute apples for pears or add other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats and a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a warm oven or microwave before serving.
Pairings
Pair this Pear and Cranberry Crisp with a cup of hot spiced cider or a warm chai latte to enhance the cozy, autumnal flavors. For a savory balance, consider serving it after a dinner of roasted chicken and root vegetables.
