Pear and Cranberry Crisp is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the sweet, juicy flavors of ripe pears with the tartness of fresh cranberries. Topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble, this dish is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a comforting treat at home. The warm, fragrant aroma of baked fruit and spices fills the kitchen, making it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers. Let’s explore how to make this delicious crisp that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients List

To prepare Pear and Cranberry Crisp, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Fruit Filling:

• 4 cups ripe pears, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 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
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced pears, fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch (if using). Toss until the fruit is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the fruit mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping

1. In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and crumbly. The mixture should resemble wet sand.

Step 3: Assemble the Crisp

1. Evenly distribute the crisp topping over the fruit filling in the baking dish, covering the fruit completely.

Step 4: 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 around the edges.
2. If the topping browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg

Nutritional Insights

Pear and Cranberry Crisp is not only a tasty dessert but also provides dietary fiber from the fruit and oats, making it a more wholesome choice compared to many other desserts.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this crisp a bit healthier, consider the following modifications:

• Use less sugar: Reduce the amount of granulated sugar and brown sugar to lower the sweetness.
• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the topping for added texture and healthy fats.
• Substitute whole wheat flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

Pear and Cranberry Crisp pairs wonderfully with:

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic combination that adds creaminess to the warm crisp.
• Whipped cream: Light and airy, it complements the richness of the topping.
• Greek yogurt: For a healthier option, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking the crisp: Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent the topping from burning.
2. Not using ripe pears: Ensure the pears are ripe for the best flavor and texture.
3. Skipping the cornstarch: If using very juicy pears, the cornstarch can help thicken the filling and prevent it from being too runny.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Pear and Cranberry Crisp fresh:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to enjoy warm again.

Conclusion

Pear and Cranberry Crisp is a delightful dessert that celebrates the flavors of fall and winter. With its sweet and tart filling and buttery oat topping, it’s a perfect way to end any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it at home, this crisp is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy it brings to your table!

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute or add other fruits like apples, blueberries, or raspberries for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I make this crisp ahead of time?

You can prepare the fruit filling and topping separately and assemble them just before baking for the best texture.

3. How do I know when the crisp is done?

The topping should be golden brown, and the fruit should be bubbling around the edges.