As the crisp autumn air settles in and golden leaves blanket the ground, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a freshly baked dessert to make your home feel cozy and inviting. Spiced Pear Crumble is one of those timeless treats that captures the essence of fall with every bite. Sweet, tender pears nestled beneath a buttery, cinnamon-kissed crumble topping create a dessert that is both comforting and elegant. This recipe is perfect for a quiet evening by the fireplace, a festive gathering with loved ones, or even as a charming addition to your holiday table.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from a cherished family tradition of baking with seasonal fruits. Pears, often overlooked in favor of apples, bring a delicate sweetness and buttery texture that pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The crumble topping, golden and crisp, adds a satisfying contrast to the tender fruit beneath. Over time, this dessert has become a symbol of home, comfort, and the simple joy of sharing good food with the people you love.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
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6 ripe but firm pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon ground cloves
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Crumble Topping:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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¾ cup rolled oats
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½ cup brown sugar, packed
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or an ovenproof dish of similar size. This ensures the crumble doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier. While the oven warms, you can begin preparing the pears and the topping.
2. Prepare the Pear Filling
Peel, core, and slice the pears into even pieces, about ½-inch thick. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with lemon juice. The lemon juice prevents browning and adds a subtle tartness that balances the natural sweetness of the pears.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cornstarch. Sprinkle this mixture over the pears and gently toss until all slices are evenly coated. The cornstarch helps thicken the natural juices released during baking, resulting in a luscious, slightly syrupy filling.
3. Make the Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, mix the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and, using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant, warm flavor that complements the spices in the pears.
Pro tip: Avoid over-mixing. The small pieces of butter in the topping create pockets of crisp, golden texture when baked, which is essential for that perfect crumble contrast.
4. Assemble the Crumble
Pour the spiced pear filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Carefully sprinkle the crumble topping over the pears, ensuring that every slice is lightly covered. The goal is to have a generous layer of crumble so every bite has a balance of tender fruit and crisp topping.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pears are bubbling around the edges. You can test the doneness by gently pressing the top; it should feel firm and crisp. The aroma of warm spices and baked pears filling the kitchen is your signal that the dessert is almost ready.
6. Cool and Serve
Remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool for at least 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve. Spiced Pear Crumble is delightful on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for the Perfect Spiced Pear Crumble
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Choose the Right Pears: Bosc or Anjou pears hold their shape well when baked. Avoid overly ripe pears, which can turn mushy.
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Even Slices: Cutting pears into uniform slices ensures they cook evenly.
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Cold Butter for Topping: Cold butter helps create a crumbly texture rather than a doughy one.
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the crumble topping in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake when ready.
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Custom Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice blend according to your taste. A pinch of cardamom or ginger adds a warm twist.
Variations and Serving Ideas
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Nutty Crumble: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for an extra crunch.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace some of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer, autumnal flavor.
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Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of orange or lemon zest in the pear filling brightens the flavor and adds complexity.
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Mini Crumbles: Make individual servings using ramekins for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.
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Frozen Pears: If fresh pears are not in season, frozen pear slices can be used. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spiced Pear Crumble is the kind of dessert that brings people together. The warm spices evoke memories of holiday gatherings, while the sweet, tender pears remind us of the simple pleasures of seasonal fruit. Unlike heavy, rich desserts, this crumble feels light yet indulgent, making it suitable for both everyday family dinners and special occasions.
Another wonderful feature is its versatility. It can be served hot from the oven, warm after reheating, or even chilled. Pairing it with vanilla ice cream creates a classic flavor combination, while a drizzle of honey or caramel adds a sophisticated touch. The recipe is forgiving, too—easy to adapt depending on the fruit available or personal preferences.
Storage and Reheating
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Room Temperature: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
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Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven until warm.
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Freezing: Spiced Pear Crumble freezes well before baking. Prepare the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Healthier Alternatives
While this crumble is already a relatively wholesome dessert, there are ways to make it even lighter without sacrificing flavor:
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Reduce Sugar: Decrease the amount of sugar in the filling or topping for a less sweet version.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add fiber.
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Oat-Only Topping: Use a topping made entirely of oats, nuts, and a small amount of butter for a naturally sweetened version.
These adjustments allow you to enjoy a comforting dessert while keeping it slightly more nutritious.
Why Pears Are the Star of This Dessert
Pears are a versatile fruit that offers a delicate sweetness and tender texture that works beautifully in baked desserts. Unlike apples, which can be tart or firm, pears soften during baking and release juices that blend harmoniously with warm spices. Their subtle flavor allows the topping to shine while creating a luscious filling that complements other elements like nuts, caramel, or ice cream.
Additionally, pears are packed with nutrients, including dietary fiber and vitamin C, making this dessert not only delicious but also a slightly healthier indulgence. When paired with a crunchy, buttery crumble, the combination of textures and flavors creates a memorable dessert experience.
Perfect Occasions to Serve Spiced Pear Crumble
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Holiday Gatherings: Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive celebration.
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Autumn Dinners: Cozy family dinners during chilly evenings.
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Casual Entertaining: Potlucks or weekend brunches with friends.
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Special Treats: A sweet surprise for someone special or a weekend indulgence for yourself.
No matter the occasion, this dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression with its comforting flavors and delightful textures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?
Fresh pears are always the best choice for this crumble because they maintain their shape and provide a natural, subtle sweetness that really shines during baking. However, if fresh pears aren’t available or you’re looking for a convenient shortcut, canned pears can be used. The key is to drain them thoroughly before adding them to the filling. Excess liquid from canned pears can make the crumble soggy and affect the texture. For best results, gently pat the pear slices dry with a paper towel and consider slightly reducing the sugar in the filling, as canned pears are often already sweetened. Using canned pears may result in a softer texture, but the warm spices and buttery crumble will still create a delicious dessert.
2. Can I make this crumble gluten-free?
Yes, this Spiced Pear Crumble can be easily adapted for a gluten-free diet. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose one that is designed for baking, as some blends can affect the texture. Additionally, use certified gluten-free oats if you want to keep the traditional oat topping. Gluten-free crumbles can sometimes be slightly less crisp than their traditional counterparts, so chilling the butter and topping mixture before baking helps achieve that perfect crunch. This makes the dessert accessible to anyone with gluten sensitivities without compromising flavor or enjoyment.
3. How do I prevent the topping from burning before the filling is fully cooked?
Sometimes, the crumble topping can brown faster than the pears cook through. To prevent burning, loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 20–25 minutes of baking. This shields the topping from direct heat while allowing the fruit underneath to cook and release its juices. Once the filling is bubbling and nearly done, remove the foil for the last 15–20 minutes of baking. This ensures the topping becomes golden, crisp, and perfectly textured without overcooking or burning.
4. Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Spiced Pear Crumble is a great make-ahead dessert. You can assemble the crumble a few hours before baking and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This is especially helpful for busy weekdays, dinner parties, or holiday gatherings. The assembled dish can also be made a day in advance, and then baked fresh just before serving, ensuring the topping stays crisp and the filling warm. For an extra convenience, the crumble topping can be prepared and stored separately in the fridge, ready to sprinkle over the pears at the last minute.
Spiced Pear Crumble Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the scent of falling leaves drifts through the window, there’s no better way to bring warmth and comfort into your home than with a freshly baked dessert. Spiced Pear Crumble is the perfect blend of tender, juicy pears and a buttery, cinnamon-spiced topping, offering a harmonious combination of flavors and textures. This dessert is ideal for cozy evenings by the fireplace, festive holiday gatherings, or even a simple weekend treat when you want to indulge in something special.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
-
6 ripe but firm pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
-
2 tablespoons lemon juice
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
-
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Crumble Topping:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
-
¾ cup rolled oats
-
½ cup brown sugar, packed
-
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Peel, core, and slice the pears into even ½-inch pieces. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with lemon juice.
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In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cornstarch. Sprinkle over the pears and toss gently to coat evenly.
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In a medium bowl, mix flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and work into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Pour the spiced pear filling into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the pears.
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Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pears are bubbling. Check doneness by gently pressing the topping; it should feel firm and crisp.
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Remove from the oven and let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Serve warm alone, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Notes
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Use firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for the best texture.
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For a nutty variation, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping.
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The crumble topping can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
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Adjust spices to taste; adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom adds a unique twist.
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Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
