Rustic Parsnip & Pear Crumble with Walnut Streusel: A Harvest Celebration

As the days grow shorter and the air crisper, the garden yields its final treasures. While pumpkins and apples often steal the spotlight this time of year, I've always had a soft spot for the humble parsnip. I know, I know – parsnips in a dessert? It might sound a little… unexpected. But trust me on this one! Years ago, facing a glut of these creamy-white roots from our late-autumn harvest, I decided to experiment. What emerged was a surprisingly delightful crumble, a harmonious blend of sweet pears and the subtly earthy notes of parsnip. This Rustic Parsnip & Pear Crumble with Walnut Streusel is now a beloved family tradition, a farm-to-table treat that celebrates the unexpected sweetness of the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn't your average fruit crumble! This Rustic Parsnip & Pear Crumble with Walnut Streusel offers a delightful twist on a classic dessert. It's perfect for using readily available seasonal produce, like late-harvest pears and parsnips, combined with pantry staples. The combination of sweet, juicy pears and subtly earthy parsnips creates a surprisingly delicious and complex flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. The addition of a crunchy walnut streusel topping elevates the crumble, providing a satisfying texture and nutty richness. Plus, it's a relatively easy recipe to make and can be adapted to your dietary preferences with gluten-free alternatives. If you're a gardener with an abundance of parsnips, or you simply want to try something new and exciting, this crumble is the perfect way to showcase sustainable practices by using seasonal vegetables and reducing waste.

Ingredients for Your Harvest Crumble

Here's what you'll need to create this autumn masterpiece:

For the Crumble Filling:

• 4 medium pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), peeled, cored, and diced. Feel free to mix different varieties for a complex flavor!
• 2 medium parsnips, peeled and diced. Peeling is important, as the skin can be slightly bitter.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, to prevent browning and add a touch of acidity.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey), for natural sweetness. Use locally sourced honey for the best flavor!
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, for warmth. You could also add a pinch of ground ginger, nutmeg, or clove for extra depth.

For the Walnut Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend). A blend with almond flour works particularly well.
• 1/2 cup rolled oats.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar).
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped. Pecans or almonds also work beautifully.
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed. It's crucial that the butter is very cold for that perfect crumbly texture!
• Pinch of salt, to enhance the sweetness.

Don't hesitate to experiment! Feel free to substitute honey for maple syrup, use different nuts, or play around with the spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to bring this rustic crumble to life:

1. Preparing the Fruit and Parsnip Filling:

In a large bowl, combine the diced pears, parsnips, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. Don't worry if the pears release some juice – it will thicken beautifully during baking.

2. Making the Walnut Streusel Topping:

In a separate bowl, combine the flour (or gluten-free blend), oats, brown sugar, chopped walnuts, and salt. Now, add the cubed cold butter. This is where the magic happens! Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to avoid overmixing; you want small clumps of butter for a perfectly crumbly streusel. If your hands are warm, you can even chill the bowl and ingredients beforehand to keep the butter from melting.

3. Assembling and Baking the Crumble:

Pour the fruit and parsnip filling into a cast iron skillet (a 9-inch skillet works perfectly, or use an equivalent baking dish). Evenly sprinkle the walnut streusel topping over the filling, making sure to cover the entire surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If you notice the topping browning too quickly, simply cover the skillet loosely with foil to prevent burning.

4. Cooling and Serving:

Once the crumble is baked, let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to thicken and prevents any unfortunate burnt-tongue incidents! For the ultimate indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

This Rustic Parsnip & Pear Crumble is incredibly versatile!

• Breakfast or Brunch: Serve it with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a slightly tangy counterpoint to the sweetness.
• Dessert: Elevate it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Snack: Enjoy a warm slice with a comforting cup of herbal tea on a chilly afternoon.
• A little something extra: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top to amplify the flavors.

A Harvest Reflection

This Rustic Parsnip & Pear Crumble is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of the season's bounty and the joy of simple, homemade food. The surprising combination of parsnips and pears offers a unique and delightful flavor experience, reminding us to embrace the unexpected gifts of nature.

I encourage you to experiment with other seasonal fruits and vegetables in your crumbles. Don't be afraid to get creative and adapt this recipe to your own tastes and the ingredients you have on hand. Share your own crumble variations and experiences in the comments below – I'd love to hear what you come up with! As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, may this warm and comforting crumble bring a little bit of joy and connection to your table.

Did you try this Rustic Parsnip & Pear Crumble? Let me know in the comments below! Don't forget to tag @BetterHomesandHarvests on Instagram and Facebook with your delicious creations! Share this recipe with your friends and family who love seasonal baking. And be sure to check out our other delicious harvest recipes, like our classic Apple Crisp or our decadent Pumpkin Pie. Happy baking!