Pear & Cranberry Crisp is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that showcases the flavors of ripe pears and tart cranberries. This warm, comforting dish is topped with a buttery, crumbly oat topping that adds texture and sweetness. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, it’s an ideal way to celebrate seasonal fruits!

Ingredients List

For the Filling:

• 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Crisp Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Timing

Preparing Pear & Cranberry Crisp takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of baking time. Total time is approximately 50 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, cranberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch (if using). Toss until the fruit is evenly coated.
2. Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping

1. In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until the mixture is crumbly and evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Crisp

1. Evenly distribute the oat topping over the pear and cranberry filling in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Crisp

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.

Step 6: Serve

1. Allow the crisp to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Pear & Cranberry Crisp (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	210
Protein	2g
Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	36g
Fiber	3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Substitute coconut oil or a light margarine for the butter.
• Reduce the sugar by using a sugar alternative or by adding more fruit.

Serving Suggestions

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• A drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Peeling the Pears: Make sure to peel the pears for a smoother texture in the filling.
2. Using Overripe Pears: Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to hold their shape during baking.
3. Not Letting It Cool: Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving to let the juices thicken.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Pear & Cranberry Crisp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

In just about 50 minutes, you can create a delicious Pear & Cranberry Crisp that highlights the flavors of the season. This warm dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness!

FAQs

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! You can substitute or add other fruits like apples, blueberries, or raspberries to the filling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately and assemble them just before baking.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

You can use arrowroot powder or simply omit it if you prefer a juicier filling.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.