Save This dish combines tender pear halves gently baked with crystallized and ground ginger to create a warm, spiced flavor. A crunchy oat and almond crumble crowns the fruit, adding texture and richness. Lemon juice brightens the sweetness, while optional yogurt or ice cream offers a creamy contrast. Ideal for chilly nights, it brings a comforting and elegant touch to your table with minimal effort and wholesome ingredients.
I first discovered this warm, comforting Toasty Ginger Pear dessert on a chilly autumn evening when I craved something both elegant and cozy. The tender pears baked beneath a crunchy oat-almond crumble instantly became a favorite late-night treat in my kitchen.
I vividly remember the first time unexpected guests showed up and I whipped this up with whatever I had. The compliments and empty serving dish made it an instant lifelong favorite.
Ingredients
- Pears: I always pick ripe but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape and become tender without falling apart
- Crystallized ginger: Finely chopped, it adds just the right spicy zing that complements the sweetness
- Lemon juice: Helps keep the pears fresh and adds brightness to the dish
- Unsalted butter: Melted to mix easily with the crumble for a rich, buttery flavor
- Brown sugar: Brings deep sweetness and helps create that toasty golden topping
- Ground ginger and cinnamon: These warm spices deepen the flavor and evoke cozy memories
- Rolled oats and sliced almonds: The heart of the crumble that adds texture and nuttiness
- Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream: Optional but highly recommended for serving to add creaminess
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the pear halves, cut side up, in a baking dish, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle the chopped crystallized ginger evenly over them. The sharp scent of ginger mingling with fresh pears is a must-smell moment.
- Make That Crumble:
- In a medium bowl, stir melted butter with brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing in the oats and sliced almonds transforms the mixture into a lovely rustic crumble, full of textures ready to toast in the oven.
- Top and Bake:
- Spoon the oat-almond mixture generously over the pears, pressing lightly so it adheres. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the pears are tender and the topping is golden and crisp, filling your kitchen with that irresistible warm aroma.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm, ideally with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning simple pears into a celebration of comfort and elegance.
Save This dish transcended ordinary dessert for me when I served it at a quiet family gathering; it wasn’t just the taste but the warmth and smile it brought that made the moment unforgettable.
Keeping It Fresh
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days and gently reheated in the oven to bring back that crumble crunch. Fresh lemon juice on top before serving renews the brightness after a day or so.
Adapting Through the Seasons
Feel free to swap almonds for pecans or walnuts for a twist, and a sprinkle of cardamom can add a unique spiced note when you want to experiment beyond ginger and cinnamon.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
While Greek yogurt and vanilla ice cream are classic choices, I’ve also loved this with a scoop of honey lavender gelato or a drizzle of aged balsamic. Keeps the experience fun and fresh.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice even if you’re using ripe pears—it brightens the entire dish
- Always finely chop the crystallized ginger so it distributes evenly without overpowering each bite
- If serving to guests, prepare the crumble topping just before baking to keep it crisp
Save Thanks for hanging out over this recipe; I hope it warms your kitchen and heart as much as it has mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute almonds in the crumble?
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Yes, pecans or walnuts work well as alternatives and add their own unique crunch and flavor.
- → How do I achieve a gluten-free version?
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Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to keep the crumble crunchy without gluten.
- → What is the best way to check if the pears are cooked?
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The pears are done when they are tender to the touch and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
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You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for freshness.
- → What serving options complement this dish?
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Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the spices.
