Pin Cinnamon Caramel Pear Crumble is the ultimate cool-weather dessert when you crave nostalgia and comfort with minimal fuss. Juicy ripe pears are baked in silky caramel under a buttery cinnamon oat topping. The aroma alone invites everyone into the kitchen, and a scoop of ice cream turns it into something magical after a hearty meal.
The first time I baked this crumble, I was surprised how quickly it came together even with fresh pears. Now it is my go-to whenever I want something quick but special for family or guests.
Ingredients
- Ripe pears: Provide sweetness and become perfectly tender when baked so try to pick Bartlett or Anjou at their juiciest
- Lemon juice: Keeps the pears bright and balances the sweetness
- Granulated sugar: For the filling since it blends easily with fruit and draws out juices
- Ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg: Add the cozy spice you expect in a winter dessert
- All-purpose flour: In the filling thickens the juices so the crumble is never watery
- Caramel sauce: Brings a rich gooey layer and you can go homemade if you have time
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Are key for the rustic crunchy topping so avoid quick oats
- Brown sugar: Has more flavor in the topping and helps everything get crisp
- Unsalted butter: Keeps the topping rich and flaky while being easy to control the salt level
- A pinch of salt and cinnamon: In the topping balances flavors
- Nuts (optional): Try adding pecans chopped and toasted for a twist
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Take a nine-inch baking dish and lightly coat it with butter so nothing sticks later and the edges get caramelized.
- Make the Fruit Filling:
- Peel core and slice your pears. In a large bowl toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning then add sugar cinnamon nutmeg and flour. Use clean hands or a spatula to mix until the pears are evenly coated and every slice glistens.
- Arrange Fruit and Add Caramel:
- Pour the pear mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the pears aiming for little pools of caramel that will bubble up in the oven.
- Assemble the Crumble Topping:
- In a separate bowl combine oats flour brown sugar cinnamon and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and work them in gently with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the texture is like chunky sand with a few larger butter bits.
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pears. Cover all the fruit but do not pack the topping down too tightly or you might lose that beautiful crunchy texture.
- Bake the Crumble:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for about forty minutes. Watch for the topping to turn golden brown and check that the fruit is bubbling around the edges which means it is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve:
- Take the crumble out of the oven and let it cool for at least ten minutes. Serve it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Pin My absolute favorite part is when the caramel bubbles up around the edges forming these chewy bits that everyone fights over. My kids have even learned to call dibs on those golden caramel pockets before the crumble cools.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results which brings back the crispness that gets lost in the microwave. You can also freeze the crumble before baking so it is ready for a future dessert emergency just bake a bit longer from frozen.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out pears for apples or use a mix if that is what you have on hand. For a nutty twist toss a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping. Use gluten free flour for the topping and filling if you need this dessert to fit dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a true comfort dessert or drizzle a little extra caramel over the top if you want maximum decadence. For a lighter option try Greek yogurt on the side which is especially good for brunch.
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Fruit crumbles like this have roots in American and British baking traditions where simple ingredients shine. In autumn and winter pears are at their best and this dish really puts them in the spotlight. During the holidays you can add holiday spices like a pinch of cardamom or ground ginger for something festive.
Seasonal Adaptations
Try with just ripe but firm peaches in summer. Swap caramel for maple syrup in October for an autumn twist. Add pomegranate seeds after baking for bright color and a tart finish.
Success Stories
More than once this crumble has saved me when I needed a fuss free dessert at the last minute. It is a hit at every potluck and people are always surprised by the gooey caramel under the crisp oat blanket.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can assemble the crumble and freeze it unbaked tightly covered. When you need a dessert just bake directly from frozen adding five to ten minutes more to the baking time. The topping gets even crispier.
Pin This crumble is sure to become your go-to dessert whenever comfort and simplicity are needed. Enjoy every bite of caramel, pear, and cinnamon goodness.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use apples instead of pears?
Yes, apples substitute well or can be combined with pears for a different flavor and texture.
- → Is homemade caramel sauce recommended?
Homemade caramel offers richer flavor, but store-bought works perfectly for quick prep.
- → What nuts work best in the topping?
Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch and depth—simply mix into the crumble before baking.
- → How do I get a crispy topping?
Use cold butter and work it into the oats and flour until crumbly for the perfect golden topping.
- → Which serving suggestions pair well?
Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- → Is this dessert vegetarian friendly?
Yes, all listed ingredients are suitable for vegetarian diets.