Description
These Insanely Good Pear Crumble Bars combine a buttery crumbly crust with tender sliced pears and a luscious caramel topping, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re ideal for dessert or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Crust and Topping:
- 1 stick + 3 tbsp salted butter (11 tbsp total)
- 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Filling:
- 3 medium pears (thinly sliced)
- 4 tsp heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp salted butter
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan or baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it well with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Make the crust + topping: Soften the butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds. In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter and 2/3 cup brown sugar, mixing until creamed together. Add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until a crumbly dough forms. Reserve about one cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly firm.
- Make the filling: While the crust bakes, peel and thinly slice the pears. To prepare the caramel sauce, combine the heavy cream, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, and 2 tbsp salted butter in a small bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth and fully blended.
- Assemble: Once the crust is baked, arrange the pear slices evenly over the crust; some overlap is fine. Pour the prepared caramel sauce evenly over the pears. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the top to cover.
- Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 22-25 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve + Store: Allow the bars to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. These bars are best enjoyed fresh on the first day.
Notes
- Use firm but ripe pears for the best texture and sweetness.
- Ensure butter is softened for easier mixing but not melted.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the crust mixture.
- If preferred, substitute salted butter with unsalted butter plus a pinch of extra salt.
- Bars can be refrigerated for longer storage but bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 42 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
