Spiced Pear and Hazelnut Crumble with Maple Drizzle
The crisp air carries the scent of fallen leaves and woodsmoke, a gentle reminder that winter is on its way. Before the frost truly sets in, we're relishing every last bite of autumn's bounty. I remember my grandmother’s orchard, rows upon rows of pear trees laden with fruit. The whole family would gather, baskets in hand, the air filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of ripe pears. We’d spend the afternoon picking, sorting, and of course, sneaking a few bites along the way. Those pears, baked into pies, crisps, and crumbles, always tasted of love and the simple joys of togetherness. Now, as I wander through my own small garden, watching the leaves turn shades of crimson and gold, I feel that same connection to the earth and a deep sense of gratitude for the season's gifts.
This Spiced Pear and Hazelnut Crumble with Maple Drizzle is more than just a dessert; it's a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s a rustic and forgiving recipe perfect for using up those perfectly ripe pears from your garden or the farmer’s market. And that maple drizzle? It’s the perfect touch of sweetness to complement the spices and nutty crunch.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This crumble is a celebration of fall's abundance, making use of seasonal pears in a comforting and satisfying way. It's incredibly easy to throw together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or potlucks, and it can easily be adapted to accommodate dietary needs. Plus, the warm spices and natural sweetness make it a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes the soul.
Ingredients
For the Pear Filling:
- 6 medium pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (Bosc or Anjou varieties work well)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (helps prevent browning)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (support your local maple syrup producers!)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
For the Hazelnut Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (adds a lovely texture)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes (for a vegan version, substitute with coconut oil)
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (toast them lightly for extra flavor)
For the Maple Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or coconut oil)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whenever possible, use organic ingredients from local farmers markets or your own garden. For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pear Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and flour. Gently toss until the pears are evenly coated. This mixture smells absolutely divine, doesn't it? The spices and maple syrup create a fragrant base for the crumble.
Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts. Don't overwork the dough; you want those little pockets of butter to create a tender, crumbly texture.
Assemble the Crumble: Pour the pear filling into a 9-inch baking dish (a cast iron skillet works beautifully!). Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the pear filling, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking time; you may need to cover the edges with foil to prevent the topping from burning.
Make the Maple Drizzle: While the crumble is baking, prepare the maple drizzle. In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup and butter (or coconut oil). Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Let it Cool (Slightly): Let the crumble cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to thicken slightly and prevents you from burning your tongue on that delicious, molten pear filling!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the warm Spiced Pear and Hazelnut Crumble with a generous drizzle of the homemade maple syrup. For an extra touch of indulgence, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar also adds a lovely visual appeal. Consider pairing it with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for the ultimate autumn comfort. If you have some extra pears, consider slicing them thinly and grilling them for a side that offers a contrasting smoky flavor.
Homesteading-Inspired Closing
As the days grow shorter and the nights grow colder, may this Spiced Pear and Hazelnut Crumble with Maple Drizzle bring warmth and comfort to your home. There’s something truly special about creating something delicious from simple, seasonal ingredients. It reminds us of our connection to the land and the bounty it provides. I hope this recipe inspires you to experiment in the kitchen and savor the flavors of autumn. What are your favorite ways to use pears during the harvest season? Share your thoughts and creations with us using #BetterHomesAndHarvests, we love to see what you make! Don’t forget to check out our other fall-inspired recipes like our Apple Butter Recipe or our Butternut Squash Soup for more ways to celebrate the season.