Autumn Pear Crisp

Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy warm, comforting desserts. This Autumn Pear Crisp is a delightful way to embrace the season’s flavors. The tender, spiced pears topped with a crunchy, buttery oat and pecan topping create a symphony of textures and tastes that will make you fall in love with autumn all over again.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 6 cups peeled and sliced pears (about 6-7 medium pears)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 1 stick (½ cup) salted butter, softened
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup finely-chopped pecans
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional for Serving:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Caramel sauce

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish to prepare it for the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
   • Toss everything together until the pears are well-coated with the spices.
   • Transfer the pear mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Make the Topping:
   • In another bowl, mix together the softened butter, flour, rolled oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pecans, and salt.
   • Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine the ingredients until the mixture becomes clumpy.
   • Evenly spread the topping over the pears in the baking dish.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Serve: Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Quick Facts:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving

This Autumn Pear Crisp is perfect for any cozy fall evening or festive gathering. The combination of sweet, spiced pears and the crisp, nutty topping is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delightful treat as the leaves change and the weather cools. Happy baking!