Pin This warm ginger-cinnamon pear crumble has been my go-to dessert for fall and winter gatherings for years. The combination of tender, spiced pears with a buttery, crunchy topping creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors that never fails to comfort and delight.
I first created this recipe during a chilly autumn weekend when I had a surplus of ripening pears. Now it's become our family's signature dessert that everyone requests when the temperatures drop.
Ingredients
- For the Fruit Filling: Six ripe pears Choose pears that yield slightly to pressure for the best texture and flavor
- Fresh grated ginger: Adds a warm spiciness that dried simply cannot match
- Ground cinnamon: Creates that classic warm aroma that defines comfort desserts
- Ground nutmeg: Just a touch adds complexity without overwhelming
- Light brown sugar: Provides caramel notes that complement the fruit perfectly
- Lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and prevents browning
- Cornstarch: Creates a silky texture in the fruit filling as it bakes
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors
- For the Crumble Topping: Allpurpose flour Creates the base structure for our crumbly topping
- Rolled oats: Adds wonderful texture and a rustic quality
- Light brown sugar: Provides depth of flavor and subtle molasses notes
- Granulated sugar: Helps create those crunchy sweet bits everyone fights over
- Ground cinnamon: Reinforces the warming spice profile
- Ground ginger: Echoes the fresh ginger in the filling for flavor harmony
- Cold butter: The cold temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crumbly texture
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: Optional but highly recommended for extra crunch and nutty flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F and position a rack in the center. This moderate temperature allows the pears to cook through while giving the topping time to become perfectly golden and crisp. While the oven heats, take this time to grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Fruit Filling:
- In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced pears with fresh ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and salt. Work carefully to coat every slice without breaking or mashing the fruit. The cornstarch will seem powdery at first but will dissolve as the fruit releases juices. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to incorporate any spices that might have settled.
- Arrange the Filling:
- Transfer the pear mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it in an even layer. Pour any remaining juices and spices from the bowl over the fruit. For the most even cooking, try to create a relatively flat surface rather than a mounded pile of fruit.
- Create the Crumble Topping:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients for the topping flour, oats, both sugars, spices, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and work it into the dry mixture using your fingertips or a pastry cutter. The goal is to create a mixture resembling coarse crumbs with pieces ranging from pea-sized to slightly larger. When properly mixed, the topping should hold together briefly when squeezed then crumble apart again.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pears, making sure to cover the entire surface. Avoid pressing down on the topping as this will compact it and reduce its wonderful texture. If using nuts, scatter them across the top now. Place the baking dish on a sheet pan to catch any potential overflow and bake for 35 minutes or until you see the filling bubbling at the edges and the topping has turned a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the crumble to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly and makes serving easier. The crumble is best enjoyed warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream that melts beautifully into the warm dessert.
Pin The fresh ginger is truly what makes this recipe special. I discovered its transformative power years ago when I substituted it for ground ginger in a pinch. The bright, zingy quality it brings to the pears creates a completely different experience than using just the dried spices alone.
Storage and Leftovers
This pear crumble will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container once completely cooled. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through. The topping may lose some crispness after refrigeration, but placing it under the broiler for a minute or two will restore that delightful crunch.
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer version Replace pears with peaches and nectarines, reduce sugar slightly, and add a handful of berries
Fall harvest Mix pears with apples and add a handful of cranberries for color and tartness
Winter warming Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the filling and increase the ginger for extra warmth
Serving Suggestions
While this crumble is magnificent on its own, it truly shines when paired thoughtfully. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream that melts into a creamy sauce, or try it with lightly sweetened whipped cream infused with a touch of cinnamon. For breakfast, it's surprisingly delicious with a dollop of Greek yogurt. I love serving this at dinner parties with small glasses of dessert wine or hot spiced cider for the perfect ending to a meal.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference—add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for more complexity, or reduce the ginger if you prefer a milder flavor. The fruit can be varied based on what's in season; apples work beautifully, as do stone fruits in summer. The topping can be made gluten-free by substituting appropriate flour and certified gluten-free oats. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Pin This pear crumble is best enjoyed warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute apples for pears?
Absolutely! Apples or a blend of both pears and apples work deliciously for this dessert, providing similar texture and sweetness.
- → How do I make it gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free flour and oats in place of regular versions. Always check labels to ensure ingredients are gluten-free.
- → What’s the best way to serve?
Serve warm from the oven. Pair with vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream to complement the spiced, buttery crumble.
- → Can I prepare in advance?
Yes, assemble the dessert and refrigerate, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the freshest texture.
- → Are nuts necessary in the topping?
Nuts are optional. They add crunch and flavor but can be omitted for allergy-friendly or smoother results.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator. Reheat portions in the microwave or warm in the oven until heated through.