“`html
There is something truly magical about a warm slice of fruit pie, and this Dutch Pear Pie with Spiced Caramel Sauce Recipe brings that magic straight to your kitchen. Imagine tender, perfectly spiced pears nestled under a crunchy oat crumble, all crowned with a luscious, velvety caramel sauce warmed with aromatic spices. It’s comfort and elegance combined in one irresistible dessert that invites you to savor each bite and make every moment feel special. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this pie is bound to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping your ingredient list both simple and thoughtfully chosen is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this pie. Each component plays a vital role — from the flaky pie dough providing a buttery foundation, to the warm spices weaving their magic through the pears and sauce.
- Basic Pie Dough (1/2 recipe): Whether homemade or store-bought, this forms the flaky crust that holds the filling.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Essential for the crumbly topping, adding structure and a tender bite.
- Old-fashioned oats (1/4 cup): Give the topping a rustic texture and slight chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the juicy pears.
- Light brown sugar (1/3 cup plus 3/4 cup for sauce): Provides deep caramel notes and natural sweetness to the crumble and the sauce.
- Kosher salt (various): Brings out all the flavors, balancing sweetness perfectly throughout the pie and sauce.
- Cold unsalted butter (1/4 cup for topping plus 2 tablespoons for sauce): Adds richness and creates that coveted melt-in-your-mouth crumble.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the pear filling, allowing the fruit’s natural flavors to shine.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Thickens the juice released by the pears during baking, preventing a soggy crust.
- Ground cinnamon (3/4 teaspoon for filling plus 1/4 teaspoon for sauce): Imparts warmth and cozy spice reminiscent of fall desserts.
- Ground ginger (3/4 teaspoon for filling plus 1/8 teaspoon for sauce): Adds a subtle but energizing kick that pairs beautifully with fruit.
- Freshly grated nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon for filling plus 1/4 teaspoon for sauce): Offers a fragrant complexity that elevates the spice blend.
- Ground allspice (1/4 teaspoon for filling plus a pinch for sauce): Rounds out the spices with its slightly sweet, clove-like undertones.
- Pears (2 1/2 pounds, about 5 medium): Firm-ripe and sliced precisely 1/4 inch thick, they provide tender, juicy layers in the pie.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the filling and prevents pears from browning.
- Pear brandy (1 tablespoon for filling plus 2 tablespoons for sauce): Adds a subtle fruity warmth and depth that make the flavor truly special.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Gives the caramel sauce its rich, silky texture.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with a sweet, comforting aroma that ties all the flavors together.
How to Make Dutch Pear Pie with Spiced Caramel Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by rolling your half recipe of basic pie dough into a 13-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, trimming the edges to leave a clean 1-inch overhang. Fold the dough edges under themselves and crimp beautifully for a classic finish. Pop the crust into the freezer for 20 minutes to chill — this step helps keep that perfect flaky texture after baking.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping
While the crust chills, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats, 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt in a bowl. Cut in 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs dotted with small butter pieces—this crumble will add the delightful crunch and buttery contrast atop your pie.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, toss the sliced pears with 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon allspice. Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon pear brandy, gently folding everything together so each slice is beautifully coated and infused with warm spice.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Transfer the spiced pear filling into your chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the pears, breaking it into some chunky clumps for texture variety. This layering promises a perfect balance of soft fruit and crispy topping in every slice.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place the pie on the middle rack of a preheated oven and bake until the topping turns golden brown and the pear filling bubbles invitingly at the edges. This usually takes about 50 to 60 minutes, but keep an eye to ensure your pie doesn’t over-brown. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly so the filling sets beautifully.
Step 6: Make the Spiced Caramel Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 3/4 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it thicken slightly, then remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons pear brandy, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of allspice. This warm sauce is fragrant, rich, and the perfect luxurious companion to each pie slice.
How to Serve Dutch Pear Pie with Spiced Caramel Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To take presentation to the next level, sprinkle a few toasted walnut halves or slivered almonds over each pie slice for crunch and a nutty note. A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream creates a creamy contrast that complements the warm spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pie shines wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a cup of spiced chai tea or a glass of late-harvest Riesling. The sweet and spicy notes in the pie are enhanced by these drinks, enriching the overall dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve individual slices in shallow bowls and drizzle the warm spiced caramel sauce in a graceful spiral over the top. Scatter a few edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for subtle color. If you’re serving at a party, consider mini versions baked in ramekins for an adorable, personalized touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pie covered loosely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping the crumble topping crisp is a priority, so avoid refrigeration if you plan to eat it soon. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is okay but expect the topping to soften slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze the Dutch Pear Pie with Spiced Caramel Sauce Recipe either before or after baking. Wrap the unbaked assembled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. To bake frozen, add extra baking time and watch the crust carefully. For baked pie, freeze individual slices wrapped well and thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy dessert tomorrow.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pie slices gently in a low oven (around 325°F) for 10 to 15 minutes to warm through and recrisp the topping. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy. Warm the spiced caramel sauce separately before drizzling it over the warmed pie for that fresh-from-the-oven feeling.
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen pears for this Dutch Pear Pie with Spiced Caramel Sauce Recipe?
Fresh, firm-ripe pears are best for maintaining texture and flavor, but if you need to use canned or frozen pears, be sure to drain them well and adjust the thickener slightly to prevent a watery filling.
Is there a substitute for pear brandy in the recipe?
If pear brandy is unavailable, you can substitute with apple brandy, calvados, or even a splash of good-quality vanilla extract for subtle warmth without altering the flavor too much.
Can I prepare the crumble topping in advance?
Absolutely! The crumble topping can be mixed and refrigerated for up to a day before baking. Keep it chilled and covered to maintain its buttery freshness and prevent clumping.
How do I know when the pie is fully baked?
Look for bubbling filling around the edges and a golden-brown crumble topping. The pears should be tender but not mushy. Using a pie shield or foil on the edges halfway through baking can help prevent over-browning.
What’s the best way to slice this pie without breaking the crumble topping?
Use a sharp, serrated knife and clean it between cuts for neat slices. Letting the pie cool slightly before cutting will help the filling set and support the delicate crumble topping.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the joy of sharing a homemade Dutch Pear Pie with Spiced Caramel Sauce Recipe with friends and family. Its charming blend of tender, spiced pears and buttery oat crumble, elevated by the warm, fragrant caramel sauce, makes it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or quiet night in. I encourage you to dive in and bake this beautiful pie—it’s a heartwarming experience worth every moment spent in the kitchen.
“`
Print
Dutch Pear Pie with Spiced Caramel Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Dutch Pear Pie features a tender pie crust filled with a spiced pear mixture, topped with a crunchy oat crumble, and served with a warm spiced caramel sauce. Perfectly blending autumnal spices and fresh pears, this pie offers a comforting, flavorful dessert ideal for fall gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1/2 recipe Basic Pie Dough (store-bought or homemade)
Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 1/2 pounds firm-ripe pears (about 5 medium), cored and sliced 1/4-inch thick (7 cups)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon pear brandy
Spiced Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons pear brandy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch ground allspice
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll the pie dough into a 13-inch circle on a floured surface. Fit it into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, trim the excess dough to about 1 inch, then fold the edges under and crimp them decoratively. Place the crust in the freezer to chill for 20 minutes to prevent shrinking during baking.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, light brown sugar, and kosher salt. Cut the cold unsalted butter into the mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips until it forms clumps resembling coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, freshly grated nutmeg, and ground allspice. Add the sliced pears, fresh lemon juice, and pear brandy, tossing gently to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Assemble the Pie: Transfer the pear filling into the chilled pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the prepared crumble topping over the pear filling, breaking it into clumps as needed for texture.
- Bake the Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for about 50-60 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the pear filling is bubbling. If the crust or topping browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.
- Make the Spiced Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and light brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in pear brandy, unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and a pinch of allspice until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. Serve each slice drizzled with the warm spiced caramel sauce for a luscious finish. Enjoy this decadent pear pie with its warm spices and luscious caramel, perfect for any fall celebration.
Notes
- For best results, use firm, ripe pears to maintain texture during baking.
- The pie crust can be made ahead and frozen until ready to use.
- If pear brandy is not available, substitute with a good quality apple brandy or omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- Ensure the crumble topping is chilled and the butter is cold to achieve a good crumbly texture.
- To prevent the crust edges from burning, cover them with foil or a pie shield halfway through baking.
- Leftover caramel sauce can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
