Apple Or Pear Crisp
A warm, comforting fruit crisp with tender apples or pears topped with a buttery, crumbly topping, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the apples or pears into a buttered 9-inch square baking pan.
- Add lemon juice and water to the fruit.
- Sprinkle the fruit with cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Cream together sugar, butter or margarine, and peanut butter.
- Work the flour into the creamed mixture to make a crumbly topping.
- Spread the crumb mixture over the fruit in the baking pan.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until the fruit is tender and the crust is light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of apples and pears for a unique taste. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the amount to taste. You can also replace peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor. For a crunchier topping, add oats or chopped nuts to the crumb mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast. This dessert pairs beautifully with Cherry Blossom Salad for a refreshing meal. For an indulgent experience, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving. Enjoy it as a comforting treat on its own or alongside a warm beverage.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover apple or pear crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option; heat individual portions for about 30-60 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Or Pear Crisp contains roughly 538 calories, with 8g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fruit for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but it's best to thaw and drain excess moisture before using it. This prevents the crisp from becoming too soggy. Adjust the baking time as needed, since frozen fruit may require a longer cooking time to become tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking to achieve the right texture for the topping.
What can I do if I don't have lemon juice?
If you don't have lemon juice, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or omit it altogether. The acidity helps balance the sweetness, but the dish will still be delicious without it.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).