Pear Crumble: A Sweet and Comforting Classic

Introduction

Pear crumble is a beloved dessert that combines the juicy sweetness of pears with a crunchy, buttery topping. This classic comfort food is perfect for autumn and winter when pears are in season, but it can be enjoyed year-round.

Ingredients

* 6 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the pears, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat.
3. Pour the pear mixture into a greased 8-inch (20 cm) baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, and flour. Cut in the butter with a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the pears.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pear crumble can be served with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It can also be topped with a sprinkling of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.

Variations

* Apple Crumble: Use sliced apples instead of pears.
* Mixed Fruit Crumble: Combine pears with other fruits such as apples, berries, or peaches.
* Gluten-Free Crumble: Use gluten-free rolled oats and flour.
* Vegan Crumble: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk in the crumble topping.

Tips

* For a sweeter crumble, add an extra 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to the pear mixture.
* If the crumble topping is too dry, add a splash of milk or water.
* If the crumble topping is too wet, add a bit more flour.
* Let the crumble rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.

Conclusion

Pear crumble is a timeless dessert that is both delicious and comforting. Its combination of sweet pears and crunchy crumble topping makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with your favorite toppings, pear crumble is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.