Warm Autumn Spice Pear Cobbler: A Seasonal Delight

Experience the cozy flavors of fall with our Autumn Spice Pear Cobbler. This delightful dessert features juicy pears enveloped in a blend of warm spices, topped with a buttery, crumbly topping. Perfect for chilly evenings, this cobbler is sure to become your go-to treat for the season.

In our family, autumn isn’t complete without the aroma of baking pears filling the house. This cobbler has become a tradition, especially during family gatherings. My husband and kids eagerly wait for that moment when the cobbler comes out of the oven, its golden topping crisp and fragrant. The first bite always brings smiles and compliments, making this dessert a cherished part of our fall festivities. Whether enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this cobbler is a heartwarming treat that we look forward to every year.

Why This Autumn Spice Pear Cobbler

• Seasonal Ingredients: Fresh, ripe pears combined with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg capture the essence of autumn.
• Perfect Texture: The tender, juicy pear filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp, buttery topping.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for any home baker.
• Versatile Serving: Delicious when served warm or at room temperature, with or without a creamy accompaniment.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 42 grams (3 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 4 medium pears, peeled and chopped into about 1/2-inch pieces
• 150 grams (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 30 grams (1/4 cup) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 180 grams (1 & 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 100 grams (1/2 cup) firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 56 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk
• Sanding sugar, for sprinkling

Directions

To Make the Filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped pears, granulated sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is bubbly, about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Transfer the filling to a 1-quart baking dish and set aside.

To Make the Topping:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender, fork, or your fingers to mix until the butter pieces are about the size of peas.
3. Gradually add the milk, starting with about 3 tablespoons, and mix until the dough comes together. Add the remaining milk as needed, a small amount at a time.
4. Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls over the pear filling. Sprinkle with sanding sugar, if desired.
5. Place the baking dish on a lined, rimmed baking sheet to catch any spills.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes:

• Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter and milk alternative.
• Cooking Tips: For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the pear filling.
• Nutritional Info: Pears are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Adjust sugar levels to taste or substitute with a natural sweetener for a healthier option.