Mary Berry Pear Crumble

Discover the warmth and comfort of Mary Berry's classic Pear Crumble, a delightful dessert that combines the soft, sweet flavors of pears with a golden, buttery crumble topping. This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a nod to the simple pleasures of home baking. Perfect for any season, it's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your taste and served in a myriad of ways, ensuring it's a hit with family and friends alike.

Mary Berry's Pear Crumble: A Classic Treat

Ingredients for the Pear Crumble

Pears: 1 kg (2.2 lbs), cored, peeled (optional), and sliced. Choose firm, ripe varieties like Bosc or Anjou for the best result.
Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp to prevent the pears from browning and add a hint of acidity.
Granulated Sugar: 2 tbsp to sweeten the pear filling.
Ground Cinnamon: 1 tsp, adding warmth and spice.
Unsalted Butter: 100g (1/2 cup), chilled and diced, for the crumble topping.
All-Purpose Flour: 175g (1 cup), serves as the base of the crumble.
Light Brown Sugar: 75g (1/3 cup), adds moisture and a rich, molasses-like sweetness to the topping.
Rolled Oats: 50g (1/4 cup, optional), for an added texture to the crumble.

Preparation Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Toss sliced pears with lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cinnamon, then place in a greased baking dish.
Combine flour and butter until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs, then stir in light brown sugar and oats.
Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pear filling.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the topping is golden and the pears are tender.

Serving and Storage

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or custard for a comforting dessert.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this pear crumble offers a balance of sweet and spice, with approximately 350 calories, 12g of fat, 58g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein.

FAQ About Mary Berry's Pear Crumble

Can I use canned pears? Yes, canned pears can be used, but ensure they are well-drained and patted dry before using to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make the crumble gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a gluten-free version of the crumble topping.

Is it necessary to peel the pears? Peeling is optional. Unpeeled pears add texture and nutrition, but for a smoother filling, you may peel them.

This pear crumble recipe is a testament to Mary Berry's ability to create desserts that are simple yet profoundly satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is bound to become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire.