Save to Pinterest This Cinnamon Caramel Pear Crumble is a cozy dessert that brings out the best of autumn and winter fruit. Tender pears mingle with aromatic cinnamon and silky caramel, all tucked beneath a crisp, buttery oat topping. Whether you are treating guests or making a special family night, this crumble is the ultimate comfort bake.
I first made this to rescue the last pears in my fruit bowl one chilly weekend in November. The warm caramel scent filled my kitchen and every bite felt like a big hug.
Ingredients
- Ripe pears: for juicy sweetness and soft texture choose pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure for best results
- Lemon juice: brightens the fruit flavor and keeps pears from browning freshly squeezed is ideal
- Granulated sugar: balances tartness and brings out the natural sugars choose fine sugar for even mixing
- Ground cinnamon: infuses warmth throughout opt for fresh cinnamon with a sweet aroma
- Ground nutmeg: adds a gentle spice layer fresh grating gives the most fragrance
- All purpose flour: thickens the filling and keeps it from being soupy sift flour before using for a smoother mixture
- Caramel sauce: creates ribbons of rich flavor homemade is best but a good quality store bought works well
- Old fashioned rolled oats: bring a hearty crunchy top do not use quick oats
- Light brown sugar: deepens the topping flavor with molasses notes pack tightly for the right measure
- Unsalted butter: gives that melt in your mouth crumb use high quality cold butter for flakiness
- Salt: highlights all the flavors and keeps the topping balanced use fine sea salt for even distribution
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Set oven to 350 F or 175 C and lightly butter a nine inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving
- Mix the Fruit Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl toss sliced pears with lemon juice sugar cinnamon nutmeg and flour until every piece is coated and glossy This step ensures a flavorful filling that thickens nicely as it bakes
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread the pear mixture evenly in your prepared dish and drizzle caramel sauce evenly across the surface so every bite gets a little extra richness
- Mix the Crumble:
- In another bowl combine oats flour brown sugar cinnamon and salt Add the cold cubed butter and work it in using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until you see a mixture that looks like pebble sized crumbs This takes a few minutes but creates that classic crumble texture
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the pears making sure to cover all the fruit so the topping browns evenly and protects the filling underneath
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place in the oven and bake for forty minutes or until you see the topping turn deep golden and the filling bubble around the edges This bubbling means the fruit is releasing juices and the caramel is working its magic
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least ten minutes This helps everything set a bit and makes serving cleaner Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you love that hot and cold dessert combo
Save to Pinterest One of my favorite things about this recipe is the crumble topping the buttery crunch paired with sweet pears makes every spoonful special I always sneak a taste of the topping before it goes on and it takes me back to baking with my grandmother on cozy afternoons
Storage Tips
This crumble keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Reheat leftovers uncovered in the oven at 325 F for about fifteen minutes so the topping stays crisp Avoid the microwave which softens the topping
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap pears for apples or use half and half if you want more variety Feel free to use gluten free flour for the topping or experiment with coconut sugar for a different sweetness level Add chopped toasted nuts for extra crunch or even dried cranberries for a tart bite
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of extra caramel Guests also love it cold for breakfast with a spoonful of Greek yogurt
Cultural and Historical Context
Fruit crisps and crumbles date back to the early twentieth century in England as a way to make the most of simple pantry staples Pears and cinnamon together evoke comfort and warmth an echo of old fashioned farmhouse kitchens
Save to Pinterest This crumble is comforting in every bite and easily becomes your go to dessert for fall gatherings. Serve it warm and enjoy the blend of caramel, cinnamon, and juicy pears with friends or family.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute apples for pears?
Yes, apples work well or you may use a mix of both fruits for added flavor and texture.
- → How do I make the topping extra crunchy?
Adding chopped toasted nuts such as pecans or walnuts gives a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
- → What type of caramel sauce is best?
Homemade caramel adds deeper taste, but store-bought sauce is quick and convenient for busy days.
- → Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients used are vegetarian. Just ensure your caramel and ice cream choices fit dietary needs.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble in advance and bake just before serving, or bake and reheat gently as needed.
- → How do I prevent the pears from becoming too soft?
Use ripe but firm pears and avoid overbaking to keep the filling tender yet textured.