The first hints of pear season are always an exciting sign for me. Living in Oregon, the second-largest pear-producing state in the U.S., I’m lucky enough to drive past orchards filled with workers picking the plump, vibrant fruits that fill local markets. The Pacific Northwest offers a bounty of pears, and in my small town, it’s not uncommon to see trucks hauling bins full of freshly picked pears to nearby packing houses.
What makes pears so special is that they’re harvested before they’re fully ripe, which gives you the flexibility to enjoy them at their peak, whether as a snack or in a baking recipe. One of my favorite ways to use them is in a 5-ingredient pear crisp that’s as easy as it is delicious. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for a chilly evening when you want something sweet without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
This simple yet satisfying dessert has become a go-to recipe in my house, especially during winter. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s an irresistible treat that’s sure to please. Make it for a cozy weeknight dessert and then enjoy the leftovers as a breakfast the next morning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This pear crisp is as simple as it is flavorful. The 5 ingredients come together quickly to create a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for chilly days. The combination of sweet pears, brown sugar, and vanilla creates a rich, flavorful base, while the oat topping adds a crunchy, satisfying contrast.
What makes this dessert even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients or add spices to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a spicier version with cinnamon or a crispier topping with a bit of flour, this recipe is easy to customize to your preferences. Plus, it’s an ideal dessert for serving guests or enjoying with your family.
Ingredients Overview:
The key to this pear crisp is the quality of the pears. Bosc or Anjou pears are my go-to choices for their firm texture and robust flavor, which hold up well when baked. The brown sugar and vanilla extract pair beautifully with the pears, while the oats and butter create the perfect crumbly topping. Together, these ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both simple and delicious, with just enough complexity to feel special.
How to Make the Recipe:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F and arrange a rack in the bottom third. This ensures the crisp bakes evenly. Prepare the dish while the oven heats up.
Step 2: Prep the Pears
Peel and thinly slice the pears, removing the cores. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl. The slices should be uniform for even baking.
Step 3: Mix Pears with Flavorings
Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1/4 cup of oats, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the pears. Stir well to combine. Ensure the pears are evenly coated.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the pear mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread the pears evenly across the bottom. Make sure they’re in a single layer.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In the same bowl, combine the remaining oats and brown sugar. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your hands. The mixture should be crumbly.
Step 6: Add Topping to Pears
Sprinkle the oat-butter mixture evenly over the pears. Make sure to cover all the pears with the crumbly topping. This creates a nice contrast in texture.
Step 7: Bake the Crisp
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The topping should be golden, and the pears should be tender. The sauce at the bottom should start to thicken.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the pear crisp from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The crisp will firm up slightly as it cools.
Tips for the Best Recipe:
- Use firm pears: Opt for ripe but still firm Bosc or Anjou pears to maintain the crispness of the fruit during baking.
- Don’t skip the butter: The salted butter creates a rich, flavorful topping that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pears.
- Let it cool: Let the crisp cool slightly before serving. The flavors will meld together, and the sauce that forms at the bottom of the dish will thicken, creating a lovely drizzle over the pears.
Variations to Try:
- Spices: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, cardamom, or allspice to the pears before baking for an extra flavor boost.
- Add flour: For a firmer, more structured topping, mix in 2 tablespoons of flour or pulse 3/4 cup of the oats in a food processor before combining with the butter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I use different types of pears?
A1: Absolutely! While I recommend Bosc or Anjou pears for their firmness, you can experiment with other varieties like Bartlett or Comice. Just be mindful of their water content and texture.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the pear mixture and topping in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or enjoy cold if you prefer.
Q4: Can I make this without butter?
A4: While butter adds richness, you can substitute with a non-dairy alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Q5: Can I freeze pear crisp?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the pear crisp before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
How to Store and Reheat:
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pear crisp in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Conclusion:
This 5-ingredient pear crisp is a simple yet irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any winter day. It’s comforting, sweet, and so easy to make, with just the right balance of flavors and textures. The pears bake up tender, creating a flavorful sauce that’s wonderful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dessert, this pear crisp is the perfect option. With minimal ingredients and a short baking time, it’s a dessert you can make whenever the craving strikes.
For more delicious recipes and fun food ideas, be sure to follow me on Pinterest, Ava Foodie. I’d love to see you try this pear crisp and hear your thoughts!
