Pear Cobbler Recipe

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Cook Time: 45 minutes

Maple Pear Crisp

Ingredients

• 4 pears, cored and cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Topping:
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup brown sugar
• cup melted butter
• cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).

Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the pear slices with lemon juice until the pears are evenly coated.

Step 3: Spread the pear mixture into a 9x9-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Drizzle the maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the pears. Toss again to ensure the pears are well coated.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, cup of melted butter, flour, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.

Step 6: Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the pear mixture in the baking dish.

Step 7: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the pears are tender.

Cook's Note

For the best results, I recommend using Bosc pears, as they hold their shape well during baking. There's no need to peel them! Canned pears, drained well, can also be used as a substitute.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	317	-
Total Fat	14g	17%
Saturated Fat	8g	41%
Cholesterol	34mg	11%
Sodium	110mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	49g	18%
Dietary Fiber	3g	11%
Total Sugars	33g	-
Protein	2g	5%
Vitamin C	3mg	3%
Calcium	47mg	4%
Iron	1mg	6%
Potassium	170mg	4%

Origin and History

Pear cobbler is a beloved American dessert, commonly enjoyed during the autumn months when pears are in season. The term "cobbler" refers to a type of fruit dessert topped with a biscuit-like dough or crumble. While cobblers have been around for centuries, their exact origin is hard to pinpoint. They became popular in the U.S. during the 19th century, especially with the advent of European settlers bringing their culinary traditions to the New World. Cobbler recipes were often a way to use up surplus fruits, and over time, various fruit fillings, including apples, peaches, and berries, found their way into this comforting dessert.

Regional Features

The pear cobbler is a variation of the classic fruit cobbler, typically featuring the rich and subtly sweet flavor of pears. While cobblers in the U.S. can be made with a wide range of fruits, pears are particularly popular in the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Midwest, where pear orchards are abundant. In these regions, pears are harvested in late summer and early fall, making cobbler a perfect way to enjoy them before they go out of season. The use of maple syrup in this particular recipe adds a regional touch that evokes the flavors of New England, where maple syrup is a key ingredient in many local dishes.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While cobblers are often compared to crisps, crumbles, or even pies, there are a few key differences that set them apart. Unlike pies, cobblers are not made with a pie crust. Instead, they feature a topping made from biscuit dough or crumbled ingredients such as oats, as in the pear cobbler recipe. Crisps and crumbles, on the other hand, usually have a more crumbly topping made of oats, flour, and sugar, but cobblers tend to be thicker and more biscuit-like. The pear cobbler, in particular, stands out due to its sweet, cinnamon-flavored oat topping, offering a satisfying contrast to the tender, juicy pears underneath.

Where It's Typically Served

Pear cobbler is a popular dessert in many households, especially during fall gatherings or Thanksgiving dinners. Its warm, comforting nature makes it ideal for cozy family meals or festive occasions. It is commonly served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. In some regions, it may be paired with a custard sauce for extra richness. While it is a common homemade dessert, you can also find pear cobbler served in many traditional American diners or local bakeries that focus on seasonal pies and pastries.

Interesting Facts

1. The term "cobbler" may have originated in England in the 18th century, referring to a "cobbled" or irregular top layer on the dessert that resembles a cobbled street.

2. The popularity of pear cobbler grew alongside the rise of pear cultivation in the U.S. By the early 20th century, pears like Bosc and Bartlett were being widely harvested in regions like Oregon, Washington, and California.

3. Pears are often seen as a more refined and less commonly used fruit in desserts, which makes the pear cobbler a delightful and slightly upscale variation compared to more common apple or peach cobblers.

4. Cobbler recipes are highly adaptable. Some variations incorporate additional ingredients like nuts (walnuts or almonds) or dried fruits, while others may include a layer of custard or caramel to enhance the flavor profile.

FAQ about Pear Cobbler Recipe

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