Renee’s Pear Crisp Recipe: Introduction
Renee’s pear crisp is a warm and comforting dessert, perfect for any season, especially during the fall when pears are at their peak. This easy recipe combines juicy, sweet pears with a crispy, buttery oat topping that’s lightly spiced with cinnamon. The simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to treat for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pear crisp is a dessert everyone will love.
Total Time Breakdown
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the pear filling:
- 6 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For the crisp topping:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions with Time
Prepare the Pear Filling (5 minutes)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced pears, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until pears are evenly coated.
Make the Crisp Topping (5 minutes)
- In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped nuts if using.
Assemble the Crisp (5 minutes)
- Spread the pear filling evenly in a 9×9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the top, making sure the pears are fully covered.
Bake the Pear Crisp (40 minutes)
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pears are tender and bubbling.
Cool and Serve (5 minutes)
- Allow the pear crisp to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the pear crisp warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect sweet contrast to the spiced pears.
- Pair with whipped cream or crème fraîche for a lighter topping.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Success
- Choose ripe pears: Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture. Bosc or Bartlett pears work great in this recipe.
- Cold butter for the crisp: Make sure the butter is cold when making the topping to achieve a crumbly, crispy texture.
- Add spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or add other spices like ginger or cardamom for extra warmth.
How to Customize Renee’s Pear Crisp
- Swap fruits: Replace half of the pears with apples, peaches, or berries for a mixed fruit crisp.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats and almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Add texture: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the topping for added crunch and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pears for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to drain them well and reduce the sugar slightly as canned pears are already sweetened.
2. Can I make this pear crisp ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the crisp ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the bake time if it’s been chilled.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
4. Can I freeze pear crisp?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked crisp. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time.
Renee’s pear crisp is a quick and easy dessert that’s both homey and elegant. With its tender pears and crisp topping, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite!
