Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spiced Pear Crumble – A Nourishing Gluten-Free Treat for Cozy Days

This cozy, naturally sweetened crumble is made with juicy pears, warming spices, and a golden oat-pecan topping. It’s perfect for a wholesome dessert or a gently spiced breakfast treat.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pear Base:

  • 1 lb pears (cored, unpeeled, cut into 1/4-inch pieces)
  • 1 tbsp ghee (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
  • 2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest (preferably from organic lemon)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1–2 tbsp water, as needed

For the Crumble Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (2 oz) almond flour
  • 1/2 cup (2 oz) certified gluten-free rolled oats (ideally soaked overnight, then drained and rinsed)
  • 1/2 cup (2 oz) pecans (ideally soaked overnight, then drained, rinsed, and chopped)
  • 1/4 cup ghee (melted, or use coconut oil for a vegan version)
  • 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat the oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a rack in the center.

Cook the pear base

  • In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon ghee (or coconut oil) over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped pears, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  • Stir to combine and let simmer for 1–2 minutes.

Add the spices

  • Stir in 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon cloves.
  • Tip: If you’re sensitive to the strong flavor of cloves, start with a little less and adjust to taste.
  • If the pears begin to stick, add 1–2 tablespoons of water to prevent burning. Continue simmering for another 2–4 minutes, until the pears soften slightly but still hold their shape.

Prepare the crumble topping

  • In a medium bowl, combine:
    • ½ cup almond flour
    • ½ cup soaked and drained rolled oats
    • ½ cup soaked, chopped pecans
  • Add ¼ cup melted ghee (or coconut oil), 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup), 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is evenly coated and crumbly.

Assemble the crumble

  • Lightly grease a medium baking dish (an 8×8-inch dish works well).
  • Spread the spiced pear base evenly across the bottom, then sprinkle the crumble topping over it, covering the fruit completely.

Bake

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.

Cool and serve

  • Allow the crumble to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy it warm on its own, pair it with yogurt, whipped coconut cream, or a drizzle of nut butter for an extra indulgent touch.

Notes

Recipe Tips & Substitutions

  • Use organic when possible – Especially for pears, oats, and spices. Peel pears if not organic.
  • For gluten-free: Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats, as regular oats may be cross-contaminated with gluten during processing
  • Soaking optional – Soaking oats and nuts improves digestion and mineral absorption, but you can skip it if short on time.
  • Spices to taste – Cloves can be strong for some—start with less and adjust to your preference. Cinnamon and nutmeg strength may also vary by brand.
  • Watch your pears – Ripe pears need less simmering and often release more juice. Add water only if needed to prevent sticking.
  • Nut swap – Walnuts can be used instead of pecans.
  • Vegan-friendly – Substitute ghee with coconut oil and honey with maple syrup.
  • No pears? – Apples work well too. Try tart-sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady.
  • Extra crunch – Sprinkle a few chopped nuts on top before baking.

Time Saving Tips

  1. Chop pears in advance and store them in the fridge with lemon juice.
  2. Skip soaking oats and nuts if short on time—recipe still works well.
  3. Prep crumble ahead and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
  4. Double the batch and bake in a 9×13” dish for easy leftovers.

Pairing/Servin Suggestions

  • Enjoy warm as dessert or reheated for breakfast.
  • Add a spoonful of yogurt (dairy or non-dairy).
  • Try with a drizzle of nut butter or whipped coconut cream.
  • Pairs beautifully with herbal tea or eggs as part of a balanced brunch.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes for the best texture.
  • Not ideal for freezing—best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Final Notes

This spiced pear crumble is as nourishing as it is comforting. Feel free to make it your own—adjust the spices, swap the nuts, and enjoy it in your favorite way.

  • Author: Petra
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Category: Dessert, Breakfast
  • Cuisine: British-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://petraslifefuel.com/spiced-pear-crumble/