Introduction to Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Why Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie is the Perfect Comfort Food
Everyone loves a cozy dessert that makes them feel right at home, and fresh pecan pear crumble pie is the epitome of comforting goodness. The combination of juicy pears, crunchy pecans, and a buttery crumble topping creates a delightful contrast of textures that just begs to be savored.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply needing a warm treat on a chilly day, this pie is guaranteed to impress. The sweetness of the ripe pears pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans and the aromatic warmth of spices like cinnamon. It's the kind of dessert that fills the room with irresistible scents as it bakes, inviting anyone nearby to indulge.
Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make! With ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, whipping up this pie won’t require a culinary degree. This fresh pecan pear crumble pie is perfect for gatherings, winter holidays, or simply a cozy night in. If you're intrigued by sweet, homey desserts, this pie will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
For more inspiration on delightful desserts, check out resources like Allrecipes or Epicurious for tips and variations!
Ingredients for Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Creating a stunning fresh pecan pear crumble pie starts with gathering the right ingredients. Let's break down what you'll need!
Essential Ingredients for the Pie Dough
To craft a flaky and buttery pie crust, you’ll need:
- 160 grams unsalted butter (cold for that perfect texture)
- 170 grams granulated sugar (adds sweetness)
- 300 grams self-raising flour (helps the crust puff)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for a hint of warmth)
- 1 egg (binds it all together)
- Pinch of kosher salt (enhances flavor)
These components work together to form a delightful pie shell that complements your filling beautifully.
Key Elements for the Crumble Topping
The crumble topping adds a delicious texture and depth to your pie. Gather:
- 200 grams all-purpose flour
- 120 grams unsalted butter (cold)
- 100 grams granulated sugar
Mixing these ingredients creates that irresistible crumble that contrasts so wonderfully with the tender pears.
Fresh Pear Filling Necessities
For a luscious filling that perfectly balances sweetness and spice, you'll need:
- 1.5 kilos fresh conference pears (the star of the pie!)
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (to elevate the flavors)
- 6 tablespoon custard powder
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 50 grams brown sugar
- 1-2 teaspoon cinnamon (for that cozy vibe)
- Chopped pecan nuts (for added crunch)
These ingredients meld together to create a warm, fragrant filling that will have everyone reaching for a second slice!
For more tips, check out this guide on choosing the best pears for your pie. Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Preheat the oven and prepare baking tools
Let’s kick things off right! Start by positioning an oven rack in the bottom third and preheating your oven to 175℃ (350°F). This ensures that your fresh pecan pear crumble pie will bake evenly. While that’s warming up, grab your springform pan and give it a quick rub with some cold butter. Then, line the bottom with parchment paper to keep things from sticking—nobody likes a messy pie!
Make the dough for the crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine 300 grams of self-raising flour, a pinch of kosher salt, and 170 grams of granulated sugar. Next, cut 160 grams of cold unsalted butter into small cubes—about 1 cm size works well—and add them to the flour mixture. Using your hands, work the butter into the flour until you can't see any sizeable lumps. Crack in an egg and mix in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Knead until you have a smooth dough and wrap it in cling film. Let it chill in the fridge for 30-60 minutes. Trust me, it makes a world of difference for a flakier crust!
Prepare the crumble topping
While the dough is resting, let’s create that irresistible crumble topping! In another mixing bowl, blend together 200 grams of all-purpose flour, 120 grams of cold unsalted butter, and 100 grams of granulated sugar. Use your fingers to combine until you have crumbs in varying sizes. Similar to the dough, let this mixture chill in the fridge for about 30-60 minutes to enhance its texture.
Create the luscious pear filling
Now, on to the star of our fresh pecan pear crumble pie: the filling! Take 1.5 kilos of fresh Conference pears, peel, core, and chop them into cubes. In a separate bowl, mix the pears with 100 grams of granulated sugar, 50 grams of brown sugar, 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and your chopped pecan nuts. The secret here is to wait until you're ready to assemble the pie to mix the filling—this prevents a soggy crust!
Assemble the pie layers
When your dough is ready, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your springform pan. Cover both the bottom and sides, then sprinkle half of the custard powder over the crust. Spoon in your luscious pear mixture, top it with the remaining custard powder, and finally, sprinkle your chilled crumble topping over everything. This layering is crucial for that delightful texture contrast!
Bake to perfection
Place your completed fresh pecan pear crumble pie in the oven and bake it for 70 minutes. When done, let it cool on a rack before slicing—it allows the filling to thicken perfectly, making every bite a dream. Serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent touch!
Enjoy your pie-making adventure, and feel free to reach out for any tips or tricks along the way!
Variations of Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Add a twist with different nuts
While the classic fresh pecan pear crumble pie shines with pecans, consider experimenting with other nuts for a new flavor profile. Walnuts bring a rich earthiness, while hazelnuts add a delightful crunch. Almonds, when finely chopped, can introduce a buttery sweetness that enhances the pie beautifully. Simply swap the pecans for your nut of choice in the crumble and filling, or combine them for a unique texture.
Substitute with other seasonal fruits
Don’t limit yourself to just pears! Fall and winter offer an array of fruits perfect for this crumble pie. Apples, with their tartness, can add a lively contrast, while cranberries introduce a delightful tang. Alternatively, you might explore using ripe peaches in the summer months or even figs for a sweet, sophisticated twist. The beauty of this fresh pecan pear crumble pie is that it’s versatile; just adjust sugar levels based on the fruit's sweetness. Want to dive deeper into fruit substitutions? Check out this guide on seasonal produce for inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
How to Prevent a Soggy Crust
To ensure your fresh pecan pear crumble pie has a perfectly crisp crust, follow a few simple steps. First, always bake in the bottom third of the oven. This position helps with even heat distribution. Also, mix your filling right before it's time to assemble, preventing excess juices from soaking into the crust. Lastly, don't skip the cornstarch—this ingredient thickens the filling beautifully. For added peace of mind, sprinkling custard powder on the bottom crust can act as an effective barrier.
Tips for Achieving a Crispy Topping
Achieving that delightful crispy topping begins with your crumble mix. Make sure to keep your unsalted butter chilled, as warm butter can lead to a greasy texture. After kneading the crumble, chill it again for at least 30 minutes before baking; this helps it to hold its shape and develop that crunchy finish. Lastly, sprinkle some oats into your crumble for an extra layer of texture that adds to the fabulous crunch!
For more tips on baking, check out King Arthur Baking for a wealth of baking knowledge.
Serving Suggestions for Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Perfect accompaniments: ice cream or whipped cream
To elevate your fresh pecan pear crumble pie, serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy, smooth textures of these additions perfectly balance the pie’s crunchy topping and tender pear filling. You might even consider drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over the top—an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with the warm spices in the pie.
Presentation ideas for a festive table
When it comes to showcasing your fresh pecan pear crumble pie at gatherings, presentation is key. Consider placing the pie on a decorative cake stand to add height and elegance. Surround it with seasonal decor, like mini pumpkins or autumn leaves, for a festive touch. Slices can be garnished with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color, making your dessert not just delicious, but visually stunning as well.
Time Breakdown for Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Preparation time
Get ready to whip up this delicious pie! The preparation will take about 20 minutes. This includes making the dough, preparing the crumble, and mixing your fresh pear filling. Make sure to set aside the appropriate time for this crucial step.
Baking time
Your fresh pecan pear crumble pie will need a bit of patience in the oven, baking for 70 minutes at 175°C (350°F). This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and the crust turns golden brown.
Total time
In total, you're looking at approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including a brief resting period for the dough and crumble. That means in just a couple of hours, you'll have a mouthwatering dessert ready to impress!
For further guidance, check out this detailed tutorial on making pie crust from scratch to ensure your crust is perfect every time. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Calories per serving
Each slice of this delightful fresh pecan pear crumble pie contains approximately 500 calories, making it a satisfying indulgence perfect for any dessert lover.
Key macronutrients
The pie provides essential macronutrients per serving:
- Carbohydrates: 73g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 20g (with 12g saturated fat)
This combination creates a balanced, yet indulgent treat! For more detailed insights on pie nutrition, you might find this article from the American Heart Association helpful! Remember, moderation is key to enjoying your favorite desserts.
FAQs about Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fresh pecan pear crumble pie a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
What if I have leftover pie?
If you find yourself with leftover pie, don’t worry! Simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to two days. It can also be frozen—just slice and wrap each piece tightly for up to three months. Reheat it in the oven for a warm treat later!
Can I use frozen pears for this recipe?
While fresh pears yield the best flavor and texture in this fresh pecan pear crumble pie, frozen pears can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mixing them into the filling. This ensures your pie maintains its delicious consistency.
For more tips on storing and preparing fresh produce, check out resources from The Produce Marketing Association.
Conclusion on Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
In conclusion, the fresh pecan pear crumble pie is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. With its buttery crust, sweet pear filling, and crunchy pecan crumble topping, this pie is sure to impress friends and family. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the perfect finish!
Fresh Pecan Pear Crumble Pie
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Springform 27 cm - 10 inch
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
Pie Dough
- 160 grams unsalted butter cold
- 170 grams granulated sugar or white caster sugar
- 300 grams self-raising flour
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- kosher salt Pinch
Crumble
- 200 grams all purpose flour
- 120 grams unsalted butter cold
- 100 grams granulated sugar
Pear Filling
- 1500 grams fresh pears (conferance)
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 6 tablespoon custard powder
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 50 grams brown sugar
- 1-2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pecan nuts chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Position an oven rack in the bottom third of the oven. Preheat the oven (conventional) to 175℃ / 350 °F.
- Grease the springform pan with butter and place a piece of parchment paper in the bottom of the springform pan. Close the springform pan and cut off all the baking paper that sticks out with scissors.
To make the dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut a part of the cold unsalted butter into small pieces, about ½ inch (1 cm) in size. Add this to the large mixing bowl. Make sure it is very cold.
- Crack an egg and add it to the large mixing bowl. Add the vanilla extract as well. Knead the ingredients with your hands into a firm dough (you should no longer see pieces of butter).
- Wrap your dough in cling foil. Place in the fridge for 30-60 minutes to rest. To allow the gluten to relax and the flour to fully hydrate.
To make the crumble
- In another mixing bowl add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Knead this with your hands until crumble forms. Place the crumble in the fridge for about 30-60 minutes to rest.
Pear Filling
- Wait until the resting time is almost over with making the pear filling. Making and mixing it too early will draw out too many juices, which will make your crust soggy. Peel and core fresh pears. Then, cut into cubes. Place them into a mixing bowl.
- Mix the pear with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, pecan nuts, and vanilla extract.
Assembly
- When the resting time of the dough is over, you can lightly flour a clean work surface and place your dough on top. Lightly flour your rolling pin as well. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin and cover the bottom and edges of the springform pan with it.
- Sprinkle half of the custard powder on top of the bottom crust. Add the pear filling on top of the crust. After that sprinkle some custard powder on top. As last add the crumble dough on top of the pear filling.
Bake
- Bake the pecan pear crumble pie in the bottom third of the oven for 70 minutes at 175℃ / 350 °F. Place it on a cooling rack after baking. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing it. This will allow the filling to completely thicken. Serve the pear crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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