There’s something about the first bite of a freshly baked Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping that sends your taste buds into a frenzy. The sweet, juicy pears mingled with warm spices create an irresistible filling, while the buttery, crumbly topping adds the perfect crunch. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe one afternoon while seeking comfort in my kitchen, and it quickly became a family favorite.
Imagine the scene: the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the air, mingling with the sound of bubbling fruit as it bakes to golden perfection. This pie not only satisfies cravings for homemade goodness but also offers a sweet escape from the same old fast-food routine.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping is sure to impress. It’s a versatile dessert that marries simplicity with elegance, making it ideal for any occasion. Join me as we whip up this timeless treat that’s guaranteed to warm your heart and delight your senses!
Why is Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping irresistible?
Comforting aroma: The sweet scent of pears combined with cinnamon and nutmeg envelops your kitchen while baking.
Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this pie.
Versatile dessert: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, it pairs beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream.
Delicious crunch: The buttery streusel topping adds an irresistible texture that contrasts delightfully with the tender pears.
Homemade warmth: Escape the fast food routine and treat yourself to a slice of homemade goodness that feels like a warm hug.
Dutch Pear Pie Ingredients
Prepare to create a delightful Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping that will warm hearts and satisfy cravings!
For the Pie Filling
• Unbaked pie crust – a classic base that holds the delicious fillings beautifully.
• Peeled and sliced pears – choose ripe, juicy pears for a naturally sweet and flavorful filling.
• Granulated sugar – enhances the natural sweetness of the pears and helps with caramelization.
• All-purpose flour – thickens the filling and gives it a lovely consistency when baked.
• Ground nutmeg – adds warmth and depth; a little goes a long way!
• Ground cinnamon – infuses comforting flavor, complementing the sweetness of the pears.
• Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Lemon zest – brightens up the filling with a zesty freshness.
• Lemon juice – prevents the pears from browning and adds a hint of tang.
• Salted butter – adds richness and flavor when dotted over the filling.
For the Streusel Topping
• All-purpose flour – forms the base of the crumbly topping that adds texture.
• Brown sugar – gives a deeper sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Granulated sugar – complements the brown sugar for a balanced sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon – ties together the flavors in the topping with a warm spice notes.
• Dash of salt – enhances the overall flavor and richness of the streusel.
• Salted butter (melted) – binds the topping together and provides a luscious buttery flavor.
For Serving
• Caramel sauce – a luscious drizzle elevates each slice, adding extra sweetness and decadence.
Get ready to indulge in this incredible Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping!
How to Make Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step creates the perfect baking environment for your pie, ensuring even cooking.
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Combine the sliced pears with granulated sugar, flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are fully coated, and then set aside.
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Place the unbaked pie crust in your pie dish, carefully filling it with the prepared pear mixture. Dot small pieces of salted butter across the top to enhance the flavor.
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Prepare the streusel topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter in a separate bowl. Blend this mixture until it resembles a crumbly texture.
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Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the pie, covering the pear filling completely for a delightful crunch.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the pears are tender and the topping is golden brown, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
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Cool the pie outside the oven for 2 hours. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice.
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Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving to add a touch of decadence and extra sweetness to each slice.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Dutch Pear Pie
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Choose the Right Pears: Opt for ripe, sweet varieties like Bartlett or Bosc for a flavorful filling that won’t turn mushy during baking.
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Proper Cooling: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours after baking. This helps the filling to set, making it easier to cut and serve your Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping.
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Avoid Soggy Crust: Pre-bake the pie crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
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Streusel Consistency: Ensure that your streusel topping is crumbly and not too wet. If it clumps together, adjust the melted butter and flour ratio.
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Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the pear mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices wonderfully.
Make Ahead Options
These Dutch Pear Pies with Streusel Topping are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy days! You can prepare the pie filling (sliced pears mixed with sugar, flour, spices, and lemon) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance. To prevent browning, coat the pears in lemon juice as you mix them. Additionally, you can prepare the streusel topping and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the pie with the prepared filling and streusel topping, and bake as directed for a fresh dessert that tastes just as delicious as if made that day!
Storage Tips for Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping
Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it loosely with foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge: To extend freshness, cover the pie with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. In the fridge, it will stay good for up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
Reheating: For the best results, warm individual slices in the microwave for 30 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy your Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping just as delightful as the first day!
Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping Variations
Customize your Dutch Pear Pie with simple swaps to delight your taste buds even further!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust and topping with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly delight.
- Spiced Pears: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves to the pear mixture for an extra layer of warmth that elevates the flavor profile.
- Nutty Crust: Incorporate ground almonds or crushed pecans into your pie crust for a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pears.
- Maple Sweetening: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup to infuse your pie with a rich, natural sweetness and unique undertones.
- Berry Boost: Toss in a cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the pear filling for a burst of berries that enhance sweetness and tartness.
- Vegan Twist: Use a vegan pie crust and replace the butter with coconut oil or dairy-free butter for a compassionate, delicious treat.
- Cheesy Layer: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the bottom of the pie crust before adding the filling for a creamy taste that contrasts with fruity pears.
- Caramel Heaven: Swirl a bit of caramel sauce into the pear filling before baking for a creamy, sweet surprise in every slice.
Let your imagination run wild as you create your perfect Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping!
What to Serve with Dutch Pear Pie?
Creating the perfect meal experience isn’t just about the pie; it’s about all the delightful dishes that accompany it!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully, enhancing the warmth of the pie while adding a cooling contrast.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a light, airy touch that complements the rich flavors of the pie perfectly.
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Spiced Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the sweetness of the pie, balancing each bite beautifully.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Besides being a topping for the pie itself, caramel sauce serves as a dipping delight, elevating every forkful to pure indulgence.
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Coffee or Tea: Brewed coffee or a warm cup of spiced chai enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy pairing, perfect for evening gatherings.
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Cheese Board: A mixed cheese platter with sharp cheddar and creamy brie can create an enticing contrast to the pie’s sweetness, exciting your palate.
Each of these options complements the Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping in a way that makes every meal feel special, inviting your loved ones to linger a little longer around the table.
Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe FAQs
What type of pears are best for Dutch Pear Pie?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using ripe varieties like Bartlett or Bosc pears. These types are naturally sweet and hold up beautifully during baking, providing a delightful filling that’s not overly mushy.
How should I store Dutch Pear Pie?
Very! After cooling, cover the pie loosely with foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh for up to 5 days, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I freeze Dutch Pear Pie, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your pie, first allow it to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the pie for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my pie crust becomes soggy?
Oh, those soggy crusts! To avoid this, pre-bake your pie crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the pear filling. This step helps to create a barrier that keeps your crust nice and crisp throughout the baking process.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating allergies, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. For those with dairy allergies, use a dairy-free butter alternative in both the pie and streusel topping. Always check your caramel sauce for any allergens as well.
How long should I let the pie cool before serving?
It’s important to allow your pie to cool for at least 2 hours after baking. This cooling time helps the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve your Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping beautifully.
Irresistible Dutch Pear Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine the sliced pears with granulated sugar, flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- Place the unbaked pie crust in your pie dish and fill it with the prepared pear mixture. Dot with salted butter.
- Prepare the streusel topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter in a separate bowl. Blend until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping over the pie, fully covering the pear filling.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour until pears are tender and topping is golden brown.
- Cool the pie outside the oven for 2 hours.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.