Baked Pears with Walnut Oat Crumble

ked pears with walnut oat crumble is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the natural sweetness of pears with a crunchy, nutty topping. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any season, and it’s easy to make for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The fragrant pears become tender as they bake, while the walnut oat crumble adds a satisfying texture and rich flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends, this dessert will surely become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this baked pear recipe because it’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The pears soften beautifully as they bake, releasing their natural sweetness and melding perfectly with the warm, crunchy walnut oat topping. The walnuts add a nutty richness that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the pears. Plus, it’s a healthier dessert option, with the oats providing fiber and the pears offering vitamins and antioxidants. It’s an elegant yet simple dessert, and it’s so satisfying without feeling too indulgent.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe pears

• 1/2 cup rolled oats

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

(Hero’s tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Slice the pears in half, removing the core and seeds. You can use a melon baller to scoop out the core or a spoon.

3. Place the pear halves in a baking dish, cut side up.

4. In a medium bowl, combine the oats, walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and butter. Mix everything together until the butter is evenly incorporated.

5. Spoon the oat mixture onto the center of each pear half, pressing it down gently to form a crumble.

6. Add a small drop of vanilla extract to the center of each pear for extra flavor.

7. Bake the pears for about 25–30 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the crumble is golden brown.

8. Serve warm as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Swap the nuts: If you don’t like walnuts or have allergies, you can substitute the walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts.

• Add dried fruits: For extra sweetness, I like to add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to the crumble mixture.

• Make it gluten-free: You can use gluten-free oats to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

I prefer to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy the dish again, simply reheat the pears in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 1-2 minutes if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pear for this recipe?

Yes! While I love using Bartlett or Bosc pears for their sweetness and texture, you can use any type of pear you prefer, such as Anjou or Comice.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pears and topping ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the dish and bake as directed.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can replace brown sugar with maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Also, you can use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten sensitivities?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. Just be sure to check that your oats are labeled as gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked pears with walnut oat crumble is one of those desserts that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s a perfect balance of natural sweetness from the pears, crunch from the walnuts, and warmth from the cinnamon. Plus, it’s a simple, healthy, and customizable dessert that works for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this baked pear recipe is sure to impress!