It’s that time of year when the leaves turn crispy, and the air smells like someone just baked a pie in the neighbor’s oven. Enter pear and cranberry crisp—a dessert that combines the sweet, juicy goodness of ripe pears with the tart zing of fresh cranberries, all topped with a crunchy oat topping that could make even the most stoic of taste buds sing. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, beckoning you to cozy up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Picture this: You’re gathered around the dinner table after a hearty meal, laughter fills the air, and someone brings out this stunning creation. The aroma wafts through the room, and your mouth begins to water in anticipation. Pear and cranberry crisp is not just dessert; it’s an experience! Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just an ordinary Tuesday, this delightful dish makes every occasion feel special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pear and cranberry crisp is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- The harmonious flavor blend of sweet pears and tart cranberries creates a taste explosion in every bite.
- Its beautiful golden topping adds a visual appeal that’s bound to impress your guests at any gathering.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed warm or cold and pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients for pear and cranberry crisp
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Pears: Use ripe but firm pears like Bartlett or Bosc for optimal sweetness and texture.
- Fresh Cranberries: Opt for bright red cranberries; they should be plump and firm for the best tartness.
- Granulated Sugar: A classic sweetener that balances the tartness of cranberries perfectly.
- Brown Sugar: This will add depth and richness to your crisp topping.
- Oats: Use rolled oats for that chewy texture that complements the fruit beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this healthy oat crepes recipe recipe.
- Butter: Salted or unsalted works here; butter adds richness to your topping.
- Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon elevates the flavors with its warm spice.
- Nuts (optional): Chopped walnuts or pecans can add extra crunch if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make pear and cranberry crisp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a trusty baking dish—9×13 inches works well—and lightly grease it with some nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
In a large bowl, combine sliced fresh pears and cranberries. Toss them with granulated sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Let them sit while you prepare that glorious topping.
Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, flour (if using), melted butter, cinnamon, and chopped nuts if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir until everything is combined into a crumbly mixture.
Step 4: Assemble Your Dish
Spread the fruit mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle your oat mixture generously on top—don’t hold back; we want crunch!
Step 5: Bake It Up
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The kitchen will start smelling heavenly—resist peeking too often!
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once done baking, let it cool for about five minutes before serving. Scoop generous portions into bowls—top with vanilla ice cream if you wish!
Now you’re all set to impress friends or family—or maybe just enjoy it all by yourself while binge-watching that show everyone won’t stop talking about!
You Must Know
- This pear and cranberry crisp is not just a dessert; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- The combination of sweet pears and tart cranberries creates a delightful flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, peel and slice the pears, mix them with cranberries, then toss in sugar and spices. Prepare the crisp topping while the fruit mingles in its sugary glory. Finally, bake until bubbly and golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different twist. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or oats into the topping for added crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in the oven until heated through. This way, you maintain that delightful crisp texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When prepping your fruit, be sure to taste as you go—adjust sweetness to your liking!
- Keep your butter cold for a flakier topping.
- Lastly, don’t rush the baking; let it turn golden brown for optimal flavor.
I once made this pear and cranberry crisp for a family gathering, and my uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” It felt amazing to see everyone enjoying it—it was gone in minutes!
FAQs :
How do I make pear and cranberry crisp from scratch?
Making pear and cranberry crisp is easy and rewarding. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice fresh pears, then mix them with cranberries in a baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter to create the topping. butter pecan cookies Spread this mixture evenly over the fruit. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the best experience! For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe.
Can I use frozen cranberries for pear and cranberry crisp?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen cranberries for your pear and cranberry crisp. Just remember to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing them with the pears. This will prevent your dessert from becoming too watery while baking. harvest salad with apples Using frozen cranberries can be convenient if fresh ones are not available, ensuring you still get that delightful tartness in your crisp.
What variations can I try with my pear and cranberry crisp?
You can experiment with several variations to enhance your pear and cranberry crisp. Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the topping for added crunch. You might also incorporate spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist. For a bit of sweetness, mix in some chopped dried fruits like apricots or raisins along with the pears and cranberries.
How should I store leftover pear and cranberry crisp?
To store leftover pear and cranberry crisp, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion for pear and cranberry crisp :
Pear and cranberry crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of pears with the tartness of cranberries, creating a mouthwatering experience. With simple ingredients like oats and butter for the topping, this recipe is easy to follow. Whether you serve it warm on its own or topped with ice cream, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. cranberry orange oatmeal Remember that variations are always welcome; feel free to add nuts or spices to personalize your dish! Enjoy this cozy treat that celebrates seasonal flavors!
Pear and Cranberry Crisp
Savor the delightful combination of sweet, juicy pears and tart cranberries in this easy-to-make pear and cranberry crisp. Topped with a crunchy oat mixture, it’s the perfect dessert for cozy nights or holiday gatherings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 medium ripe pears, sliced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, toss sliced pears and cranberries with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Allow to sit while you prepare the topping.
- In another bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and optional nuts until crumbly.
- Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the prepared dish and top generously with the oat mixture.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for five minutes before serving warm with vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute cranberries with blueberries or add spices like nutmeg or ginger to the topping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
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