When the cold weather rolls in and the scent of cinnamon and cloves fills the kitchen, few things hit the spot quite like a warm, spiced pear crumble. This comforting dish is everything you want during the festive season: simple to make, full of cozy flavors, and perfect as a rustic dessert for your Christmas table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just dipping their toes into holiday baking, this pear crumble with oat topping delivers a satisfying crunch, mellow fruitiness, and aromatic spices in every bite. It’s also a nice alternative if you’re looking to break away from the usual Christmas cookies recipes or want to add something homey to your holiday treats spread.
Spiced Pear Crumble with Oat Topping
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine British, European
9-inch baking dish A ceramic or glass baking dish works great, but a cast-iron skillet also does a beautiful job and adds a rustic flair.
Mixing bowls You’ll need two: one for the filling and one for the crumble topping.
Pastry cutter or fork To cut the butter into the crumble. If you don’t have one, clean hands work just as well.
Peeler and knife To prepare the pears.
Measuring cups and spoons For accuracy.
Oven mitts Essential for safely transferring your hot dish in and out of the oven.
For the spiced pear filling
- 6 ripe but firm Bartlett or Anjou pears peeled, cored, and sliced
- ⅓ cup brown sugar light or dark
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the oat crumble topping
- ¾ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your delicious filling won’t stick to the sides, making for easier serving and cleanup.
Make the Spiced Pear Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced pears with brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and all the warming spices—cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg—and a pinch of salt. Toss gently until the pears are evenly coated in the spice and sugar mix. Let this sit for about 10 minutes to draw out the juices, enhancing the flavor and ensuring a tender, bubbling filling.
Assemble the Oat Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If you're using nuts, fold them in now for added texture.
Layer and Bake
Spread the spiced pear filling evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the oat topping generously over the fruit, covering it completely. Place the dish on a baking sheet (to catch any bubbling over) and bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit juices are bubbling around the edges.
Cool Slightly and Serve
Allow the crumble to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This gives the juices a chance to thicken slightly, making for neater portions. Serve warm on its own or with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pairings
The spiced pear crumble is a dessert that doesn’t need much to shine, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate the experience:
- Vanilla ice cream – The classic. The cool creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm spiced fruit and crisp topping.
- Maple whipped cream – Whip heavy cream with a touch of maple syrup for an earthy sweetness that complements the pears and spices.
- Spiced cider or mulled wine – These cozy drinks tie in the seasonal spices and make the dessert feel even more festive.
- Toasted nuts – Scatter chopped toasted pecans or almonds on top for a textural contrast.
- Caramel drizzle – A light drizzle of salted caramel adds depth and richness, especially if you're serving this as part of your xmas desserts lineup.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned or frozen pears instead of fresh?
Yes, though fresh pears are best for texture and flavor. If using canned, drain them well and reduce the sugar slightly. For frozen, thaw and pat dry before using.
2. What type of pears work best in this recipe?
Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou pears are ideal because they hold their shape well when baked and have a natural sweetness that complements the spices.
3. Can I make this crumble ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. You can also bake it, cool it, and reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes before serving.
4. Can I substitute apples for pears?
Yes, apples work well here—just opt for firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Or, do a half-and-half mix for a more layered flavor.
5. Is it okay to use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
You can, but the texture will be softer and less hearty. Rolled oats give the topping its signature crumble. If you’re in a pinch, quick oats will work but avoid instant oats, which can turn mushy.
