Name: Pear Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the filling:; 6-7 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (Bartlett or Anjou work well); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening); For the topping:; 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pear Crisp is a perfect combination of sweet, spiced pears and a crunchy, golden topping. The pears soften as they bake, releasing their natural juices, while the oat topping becomes beautifully crisp and caramelized. The slight warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg complements the sweetness of the pears, making this dessert a comforting and flavorful choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, Pear Crisp is a delicious treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

For the filling:

6-7 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)

For the topping:

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or butter a 9×9-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss to coat the pears evenly, then transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the topping.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the oat mixture and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the pear mixture, covering the pears completely.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pears are tender and bubbling. You can check the doneness by inserting a fork into the pears to make sure they’re soft.
Let the crisp cool slightly before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6-8
Total time: 1 hour
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the topping mixture.
Use other fruits: While pears are delicious, you can also add apples, cranberries, or berries to the filling for a different twist.
Spiced version: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the filling for a more spiced flavor.
Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Pear Crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the crisp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, just until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make Pear Crisp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Pear Crisp the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving to enjoy it fresh from the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh pears?

Fresh pears work best for this recipe, but you can use canned pears in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and reduce the amount of sugar, as canned pears are often sweeter than fresh.

Can I make the topping without butter?

You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version of the topping.

How do I know when the Pear Crisp is done?

The Pear Crisp is done when the topping is golden brown and the pears are bubbling and tender. You can test the pears by inserting a fork into them to check for softness.

Can I freeze Pear Crisp?

Yes, you can freeze Pear Crisp either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking, let the crisp cool completely before wrapping it and storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use other types of pears?

Yes, you can use different pear varieties like Bosc, Comice, or Red Anjou. Just make sure the pears are ripe and soft enough for baking.

Can I make this recipe in a different pan size?

You can make Pear Crisp in a different-sized pan, but the baking time may change slightly depending on the size. A larger pan may require less baking time, while a smaller pan may need a little extra time.

Can I serve Pear Crisp with ice cream?

Yes, Pear Crisp pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

How can I make the crisp topping extra crunchy?

To make the topping extra crunchy, you can add more oats, use brown sugar for extra caramelization, or add chopped nuts to the topping mixture.

Conclusion

Pear Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender, spiced pears and crunchy oat topping, it’s a simple yet indulgent treat. Whether served on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, Pear Crisp is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall and winter. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dessert will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.