Name: Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Fort Pear Cranberry Filling; 2 lbs large bartlett pears; 1 cup cranberries; ⅓ cup honey; 2 tbsp arrowroot starch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ tsp ground ginger; ¼ tsp Cinnamon; For Gluten-free Walnut, Oat and Almond Meal Topping:; 1 cup old-fashioned oats; ½ cup flour; ½ cup Walnuts; ⅓ cup lightly packed brown sugar; ¼ tsp fine grain sea salt; 4 tbsp butter; 3 tbsp plain yogurt

This gluten-free pear cranberry crisp is a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for a cozy dessert. With a crunchy walnut, oat, and almond meal topping, it offers a satisfying texture contrast to the tender fruit filling. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a gluten-free treat that doesn't compromise on taste or comfort.

Photos of Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp Recipe

Arrowroot starch might not be a staple in every pantry, but it's key to thickening the fruit filling without adding gluten. Look for it in the baking aisle or health food section of your supermarket. Additionally, Greek yogurt adds a creamy richness to the topping, so make sure to pick up a small container if you don't already have some on hand.

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp

Bartlett pears: These pears are juicy and sweet, making them perfect for a crisp. Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a tart punch to the dessert. Honey: Natural sweetener that complements the fruit flavors. Arrowroot starch: Thickens the filling without gluten. Lemon juice: Adds a bit of acidity to balance the sweetness. Ground ginger: Provides a warm, spicy note. Cinnamon: Adds a classic spice flavor. Old-fashioned oats: Forms the base of the crisp topping. Flour: Use a gluten-free blend to keep the recipe gluten-free. Walnuts: Add crunch and a nutty flavor to the topping. Brown sugar: Sweetens the topping and helps it caramelize. Fine grain sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor. Butter: Adds richness and helps the topping crisp up. Plain yogurt: Adds moisture and tanginess to the topping mixture.

One reader, Brena Freed says:

This gluten-free pear cranberry crisp is a delightful treat! The combination of sweet pears and tart cranberries is perfect, and the walnut, oat, and almond meal topping adds a wonderful crunch. It's easy to make and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend for a cozy dessert!

Brena Freed

Techniques Required for Making Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp

How to brown butter: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling the pan frequently until you see little brown flecks at the bottom. How to mix ingredients: Combine the oats, almond meal or flour, walnuts, brown sugar, and salt in a bowl, then mix in the Greek yogurt and browned butter until the mixture is moistened throughout.

How To Make Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp

Sweet pear, combined with tart cranberries make a wonderful dessert. Create this gluten-free pear cranberry crisp for a guilt-free treat.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Fort Pear Cranberry Filling

2lbslarge bartlett pears
1cupcranberries
⅓cuphoney
2tbsparrowroot starch
1tbsplemon juice
½tspground ginger
¼tspcinnamon

For Gluten-free Walnut, Oat and Almond Meal Topping:

1cupold-fashioned oats
½cupflour
½cupwalnuts,chopped
⅓cuplightly packed brown sugar
¼tspfine grain sea salt
4tbspbutter
3tbspplain yogurt,greek or regular

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a 9×9-inch baking dish, mix together the pears, cranberries, honey, arrowroot or cornstarch, lemon juice, ginger, and cinnamon.
Optional: brown the butter for a more complex flavor. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Swirl the pan by the handle often so the butter doesn’t splatter.
Continue to heat the butter, swirling frequently, until you see little brown flecks in the bottom of the pan.
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the oats, almond meal or flour, walnuts, brown sugar, and salt.
Mix in the Greek yogurt and browned butter. Stir until all of the flour is incorporated and the mixture is moistened throughout.
Dollop spoonfuls of the oat mixture over the filling and use your fingers to break up the mixture until it is evenly distributed.
Bake until the filling is bubbling around the edges, the top is turning lightly golden and most of the cranberries have burst, 40 to 55 minutes. Let the crisp rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 285.74kcal
Fat: 7.08g
Saturated Fat: 3.91g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.77g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.61g
Carbohydrates: 54.52g
Fiber: 5.43g
Sugar: 32.53g
Protein: 3.05g
Cholesterol: 16.01mg
Sodium: 81.33mg
Calcium: 35.67mg
Potassium: 205.50mg
Iron: 0.98mg
Vitamin A: 51.68µg
Vitamin C: 7.66mg

Technique Tip: Perfecting Your Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp

To achieve a perfectly browned and crisp topping, make sure to evenly distribute the oat mixture over the pear cranberry filling. This ensures that every bite has a balanced texture and flavor. Additionally, browning the butter before mixing it into the topping adds a nutty, rich depth to the crisp that elevates the overall taste.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Crisp Recipe

Prepare the filling in advance: Chop the pears and mix with cranberries and other ingredients the night before. Store in the fridge.

Use pre-chopped nuts: Buy pre-chopped walnuts to save time on preparation.

Opt for pre-mixed flour: Use a pre-mixed gluten-free flour blend to skip measuring individual flours.

Brown butter ahead: Brown the butter in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat slightly before mixing.

Quick topping mix: Combine oats, brown sugar, and flour in a large batch and store for future use.

Substitute Ingredients For Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp Recipe

Bartlett pears - Substitute with Bosc pears: Bosc pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative for baking.
Cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries provide a similar tartness and can be rehydrated to mimic the texture of fresh cranberries.
Honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.
Arrowroot starch - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch has similar thickening properties and can be used in the same amount.
Lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and can be used in the same quantity.
Ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Fresh ginger can be grated and used in a slightly smaller amount to provide a similar flavor.
Cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
Old-fashioned oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes provide a similar texture and are also gluten-free.
Flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar texture.
Walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans offer a similar crunch and flavor profile, making them a good alternative.
Brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and can be used in the same amount.
Butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can be used in the same quantity.
Plain yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt offers a similar texture and is a good dairy-free alternative.

Presenting Your Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp

Use a pristine white plate: Choose a large, pristine white plate to make the colors of the pear cranberry filling and gluten-free walnut, oat, and almond meal topping pop.
Create a base layer: Spread a thin, even layer of the pear cranberry filling on the plate, ensuring it covers the center but leaves a clean border around the edges.
Add texture with topping: Sprinkle the gluten-free walnut, oat, and almond meal topping over the pear cranberry filling, allowing some of it to cascade naturally off the sides for a rustic yet refined look.
Garnish with fresh elements: Place a few fresh cranberries and thin slices of pear strategically around the plate to add a burst of color and freshness.
Drizzle with honey: Lightly drizzle honey in a delicate pattern over the entire dish to add a touch of sweetness and shine.
Add a dollop of yogurt: Place a small dollop of plain yogurt on the side of the plate, providing a creamy contrast to the crisp.
Finish with a mint sprig: Top the dish with a small sprig of fresh mint for a pop of green and a hint of aromatic freshness.
Serve with elegance: Present the plate with a polished silver spoon and fork, ensuring the cutlery is spotless and perfectly aligned.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Pear Cranberry Crisp

Oven: Used to bake the crisp at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees F.
9x9-inch baking dish: Holds the pear and cranberry filling while it bakes.
Small saucepan: Used to melt and brown the butter for a more complex flavor.
Medium mixing bowl: For mixing the oats, almond meal or flour, walnuts, brown sugar, and salt.
Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the oat mixture and incorporating the yogurt and browned butter.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like honey, oats, and flour.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring smaller quantities like arrowroot starch, lemon juice, ginger, and cinnamon.
Knife: Used to peel, core, and slice the pears.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the pears.
Swirl pan: Helps in swirling the butter to prevent splattering while browning.
Oven mitts: Protects your hands when placing the baking dish in the oven and removing it once done.
Timer: Keeps track of the baking time to ensure the crisp is perfectly cooked.
Cooling rack: Allows the crisp to rest and cool slightly before serving.

Storing and Freezing Your Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp

Let the pear cranberry crisp cool completely before storing to prevent the topping from becoming soggy.
Cover the crisp tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Store the covered or sealed crisp in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze the crisp, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid.
Label the wrapped or sealed crisp with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the pear cranberry crisp for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
To reheat the crisp, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Once thawed, bake the crisp in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is crisp.
If reheating from frozen, increase the baking time to 30-40 minutes, covering the top with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
For individual servings, portion the cooled crisp into freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat individual portions as needed, following the same guidelines as above.

How To Reheat Leftover Pear Cranberry Crisp

To reheat leftover gluten-free pear cranberry crisp, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the crisp warms through evenly without burning the topping or drying out the filling.
Place the desired portion of leftover crisp in an oven-safe dish. If you have a small amount, consider using individual ramekins for single servings.
For a crispier topping, add a sprinkle of oats and a pinch of brown sugar over the top of the crisp before reheating. This will help restore the crunchy texture that may have softened during storage.
If the filling appears dry, add a tablespoon or two of water, apple juice, or even a splash of bourbon to the dish. This will help maintain the moisture content and prevent the pears and cranberries from becoming too dry during reheating.
Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent the topping from browning too quickly. This also helps trap the moisture, ensuring a juicy filling.
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and bubbling around the edges.
Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the topping to crisp up. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
For a single serving, you can also reheat the crisp in the microwave. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. However, note that the topping may not be as crisp as when reheated in the oven.
Allow the reheated crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be extremely hot. Serve the warm crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

Random Fact: Discovering Something New About Pear Cranberry Crisp

A fun fact about this gluten-free pear cranberry crisp recipe is that it uses arrowroot starch as a thickening agent. Arrowroot is a great alternative to cornstarch for those who are looking for a gluten-free option, and it also provides a smoother, shinier finish to the filling.

Is Making Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp at Home Cost-Effective?

This gluten-free pear cranberry crisp recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like Bartlett pears, cranberries, and old-fashioned oats are relatively affordable and widely available. Specialty items such as arrowroot starch and almond meal might add a bit to the cost, but they are used in small quantities. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Pear Cranberry Crisp Recipe Healthy?

This gluten-free pear cranberry crisp recipe offers a delightful balance of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors. The use of fresh pears and cranberries provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The honey and brown sugar add natural sweetness, while the oats, almond meal, and walnuts contribute to a nutrient-dense topping. However, the recipe does include some less healthy components, such as butter and brown sugar, which can increase the calorie and fat content.

To enhance the nutritional value of this crisp, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar to lower the overall sugar content
Replace a portion of the butter with coconut oil, which contains healthier fats
Increase the proportion of oats and nuts in the topping for added fiber and protein
Serve the crisp with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream for a protein boost
Experiment with different spice combinations, such as adding nutmeg or cardamom, to enhance the flavor without relying on extra sugar

Editor's Thoughts: My Opinion on This Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp

This gluten-free pear cranberry crisp recipe is a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors, perfect for a cozy dessert. The combination of pears and cranberries provides a refreshing contrast, while the honey adds a natural sweetness. The topping, made with oats, walnuts, and almond meal, offers a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth. Browning the butter is a brilliant touch, adding complexity to the dish. The use of arrowroot starch ensures a smooth, gluten-free filling. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and thoughtfully crafted, making it a wonderful treat for those with dietary restrictions.

Enhance Your Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety butternut squash soup, its rich, creamy texture perfectly complementing the sweet and tart notes of the pear cranberry crisp. The subtle hint of nutmeg and cinnamon in the soup will echo the spices in the crisp, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Arugula and Pomegranate Salad: Picture a vibrant arugula and pomegranate salad, with its peppery greens and juicy bursts of pomegranate seeds. The tangy vinaigrette dressing will cut through the sweetness of the crisp, while the pomegranate adds a delightful crunch that mirrors the crisp topping.

Maple Glazed Carrots: Envision tender carrots glazed with a luscious maple syrup reduction. The natural sweetness of the carrots will enhance the fruity flavors of the pear cranberry crisp, while the slight caramelization from the maple syrup adds a depth of flavor that ties the meal together beautifully.

Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin: Think of a succulent pork tenderloin encrusted with a fragrant blend of herbs. The savory, juicy meat provides a wonderful contrast to the sweet and tart pear cranberry crisp, making each bite a delightful interplay of flavors.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Visualize a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream slowly melting over a warm serving of pear cranberry crisp. The smooth, rich ice cream will meld with the crisp's fruity filling and crunchy topping, creating a dessert experience that's both comforting and indulgent.

Alternative Recipes to Try If You Love Pear Cranberry Crisp

Apple Cinnamon Crumble: Imagine the aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. This delightful dessert combines tender, spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy topping. Perfect for a cozy evening in.

Mixed Berry Oat Crisp: A medley of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries come together under a golden oat topping. This crisp is a burst of summer flavors in every bite.

Peach Almond Cobbler: Juicy peaches nestled beneath a sweet, almond-infused biscuit topping. This cobbler is a celebration of summer's bounty, perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pumpkin Pecan Streusel: Warm pumpkin filling spiced with nutmeg and cloves, topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. This dessert is autumn in a dish, ideal for holiday gatherings.

Cherry Vanilla Crisp: Tart cherries mingling with a hint of vanilla under a buttery oat topping. This crisp is a delightful balance of sweet and tart, perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with This Crisp Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is rich and creamy, with a hint of parmesan for added depth. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top provides a satisfying crunch. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers are a fresh and vibrant appetizer that will impress your guests. Picture cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves threaded onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a harmonious balance of flavors. These skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to any appetizer spread.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a burst of flavor. After marinating, the chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that can be customized to suit any taste. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef, turkey, or chicken), rice, tomatoes, and spices. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with beans or quinoa. The stuffed peppers are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs before serving. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a satisfying meal.

Why trust this Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp Recipe:

This gluten-free pear cranberry crisp recipe is a delightful blend of sweet pears and tart cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The honey and spices add a warm, comforting touch, while the walnut, oat, and almond meal topping provides a satisfying crunch. Using arrowroot starch ensures a smooth, thick filling without gluten. The option to brown the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. This recipe has been carefully crafted and tested to guarantee a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Have you tried this Gluten-Free Pear Cranberry Crisp Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pear for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Bartlett pears are recommended, you can use any variety of pear you like. Just make sure they are ripe but still firm.

Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey. The flavor might change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Definitely! You can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. For the yogurt, you can use a dairy-free yogurt made from almond, coconut, or soy milk.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping separately and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you're ready to bake, just assemble and pop it in the oven.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven.