Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Pumpkin-Pear Crisps. This unique and comforting recipe brings together two seasonal favorites, pumpkin, and pears, creating a harmonious blend that promises a crispy texture with irresistibly sweet flavors. Perfect for autumn gatherings or as an indulgent treat on your own, these crisps offer a delightful twist to traditional desserts.
Tips for this recipe
For the best results with Pumpkin-Pear Crisps, ensure that all fruits and spices are fresh. Preheat your oven to avoid any temperature fluctuations that could affect baking time. Utilize silicone mats for easy removal of crisps once baked.
Why you will love this recipe
Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting something warm and inviting from scratch while savoring the nutty, spiced notes and natural sweetness. The combination of pumpkin’s subtle earthiness with the juicy texture of peaches is a winning formula that caters to both dessert lovers and health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1 large egg white
- 1/4 cup (packed) dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/2″ cubes
- 3 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups 1/4″ cubes peeled, seeded sugar pumpkin or butternut squash (about 1/2 pound)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon (packed) dark brown sugar
- 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 large pears (2 pounds), peeled, cored, cut into 1/4″ cubes (4 cups)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Eight 6-ounce ramekins or heatproof bowls
Adviced equipment
- Fruit Basket / Cutting Board: Essential for preparation; ensures clean cutting surfaces.
- Mandoline Slicer / Knife Set: For slicing pears and peeling skin efficiently.
- Baking Sheet / Silpat Mat: Necessary for baking crisps evenly without sticking.
- Pumpkin Pie Spoon (or similar spoon): Useful for removing the cooked, softened pumpkins and peaches from their skins.
- Muffin Tray or Cupcake Maker with Liners: For baking individual crisps if preferred.
- Oven Mitts / Kitchen Gloves: Essential for safely handling hot trays in the oven.
- Hand Mixer / Food Processor (optional): Useful for mixing ingredients more efficiently than by hand.
- Digital Food Scale: For precise measurement of pumpkin and peach quantities.
- Candy Thermometer or Oven Thermometer: Useful for monitoring the temperature accurately during baking.
History of the recipe
The Pumpkin-Pear Crisps have roots in comfort cooking, an art that has been celebrated throughout American history. Incorporating pumpkins and fruits like peaches aligns with a tradition of using local produce to create heartwarming dishes suitable for any season.
Fun facts about this recipe
Did you know? Pumpkin-Pear Crisps are an excellent way to repurpose fall’s bountiful harvest. They also embody the spirit of creativity in the kitchen, showcasing how simple ingredients can be transformed into a luxurious dessert that captures the essence of autumn.
