Why You’ll Love Pear Crumble Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because the pears gently cook in butter and brown sugar, creating a rich caramel base that pairs perfectly with the crunchy crumble. I like that it uses everyday ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknights or relaxed entertaining. I also appreciate how adaptable it is, inviting small twists depending on my mood or pantry.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

4 Pears (peeled and sliced)
30 gram Butter
30 gram Brown sugar
2 tbsp Water

Crumble
100 gram Butter (melted)
100 gram Brown sugar
1 cup Rolled oats
110 gram Plain flour
½ tsp Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. I peel the pears and slice them thinly, then preheat the oven to 180°C fan bake.

2. In a shallow casserole dish over low heat, I melt the butter, add the brown sugar, and cook until the mixture begins to bubble.

3. I add the sliced pears, stirring to coat them well, then add the water and simmer for about 5 minutes until the pears begin to soften. I remove the dish from the heat.

4. In a large bowl, I combine the melted butter and brown sugar for the crumble. I add the rolled oats, flour, and cinnamon, mixing until everything is evenly incorporated.

5. I spread the crumble mixture over the pears and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is crisp and golden.

6. I serve the pear crumble warm with custard or ice cream.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

I sometimes add chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds to the crumble for extra crunch. When I want a warmer flavor profile, I increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg. For a lighter version, I occasionally swap part of the brown sugar for maple syrup. I also enjoy mixing apples with the pears when I want a little extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm portions in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, which helps keep the crumble crisp. The microwave also works, though it softens the topping slightly. I don’t recommend freezing, as the pears can become watery.

FAQs

How do I keep the crumble topping crispy?

I make sure to bake it long enough for the topping to turn golden and crisp, and I avoid covering it while warm.

Can I use tinned pears?

Yes, although I prefer fresh pears for better texture. If I use tinned pears, I reduce the cooking time on the stovetop.

What pear varieties work best?

I like using firm varieties such as Packham, Bosc, or Bartlett because they hold their shape well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I use dairy-free butter alternatives in both the filling and crumble.

Can I prepare the crumble ahead of time?

I often prepare the crumble topping in advance and store it in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.

How do I prevent the crumble from becoming soggy?

I spread the topping evenly and bake until fully crisp. Baking a few extra minutes helps if it still seems soft.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, I reduce the sugar in both the filling and crumble to suit my taste. The recipe is flexible.

Can I add spices besides cinnamon?

Absolutely. I enjoy adding nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for extra warmth.

Can this be made gluten-free?

I replace the flour with a gluten-free blend and use certified gluten-free oats.

Can I bake this in a different dish?

Yes, any oven-safe dish works. If I use one that isn’t stovetop-safe, I cook the pears first and transfer them before baking.

Conclusion

I love how this pear crumble delivers deep caramel flavor, tender fruit, and a satisfying crunchy topping with minimal effort. It’s a timeless dessert that feels special every time I make it, especially when served warm with custard.