Rustic Pear & Walnut Crisp

Rustic Pear & Walnut Crisp

A cozy dessert that highlights fresh pears and crunchy walnuts beneath a golden, buttery crumb topping. Perfect for fall entertaining or any time you want an elegant yet comforting dessert.

Essential Ingredients

For the Pear Filling:

  • 6-7 ripe but firm pears (Anjou or Bartlett)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Walnut Topping:

  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F
  2. Butter 9×13 inch baking dish
  3. Core and slice pears (1/4-inch thick)
  4. Toss with lemon juice

Step 2: Create Filling

  1. Mix in large bowl:
  • Sliced pears
  • Granulated sugar
  • Flour
  • Spices
  • Salt
  1. Transfer to baking dish

Step 3: Make Topping

  1. Combine dry ingredients:
  • Oats
  • Flour
  • Brown sugar
  • Walnuts
  • Cinnamon
  • Salt
  1. Add cold butter pieces
  2. Work with fingers until crumbly
  3. Stir in vanilla

Step 4: Assembly & Baking

  1. Spread topping over pears
  2. Bake 40-45 minutes until:
  • Top is golden
  • Pears are tender
  • Edges are bubbling
  1. Cool 15 minutes

Pro Tips

  1. For Best Results:
  • Use barely ripe pears
  • Cut fruit uniformly
  • Keep butter cold
  • Don’t overwork topping
  1. Make-Ahead Options:
  • Prepare topping separately
  • Store in refrigerator
  • Assemble before baking

Storage Guidelines

  • Room temperature: 2 days
  • Refrigerated: up to 5 days
  • Reheat to restore crispness
  • Don’t freeze assembled

Serving Ideas

Perfect with:

  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Fresh whipped cream
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Extra toasted walnuts

Ideal for:

  • Fall gatherings
  • Holiday desserts
  • Family dinners
  • Weekend baking

Remember:

  • Choose firm pears
  • Use fresh lemon juice
  • Let cool slightly
  • Serve warm
  • Add toppings last

This delightful dessert showcases seasonal pears while providing a satisfying contrast of textures. The buttery, nutty topping perfectly complements the tender, spiced fruit beneath.

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Marianna

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