Name: Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 apples, peeled and diced; 2 pears, peeled and diced; 2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed; ¼ cup white sugar; ¼ cup real maple syrup; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp cardamom; 1 cup quick-cooking oats; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ⅓ cup pecans, coarsely chopped; ¼ cup brown sugar; ½ tsp cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 8 tbsp unsalted butter, diced

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with cozy fall flavors yet bright and refreshing, this Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp might just become your new favorite. The perfect balance of juicy apples and pears mingled with tart, fresh cranberries, all topped with a buttery, crunchy oat and pecan crumble, makes this dessert irresistibly comforting. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a weeknight treat, this crisp delivers a delightful mix of sweet, tart, and warmly spiced goodness that instantly brings comfort to the table.

Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp—each ingredient plays a star role in flavor, texture, and overall appeal. From the tender fruit base to the crunchy, nutty topping, the carefully chosen components blend harmoniously to create a snapshot of seasonal bliss.

2 apples, peeled & diced: Choose crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced sweetness and texture.
2 pears, peeled & diced: Use firm, ripe pears to add a juicy, mellow sweetness that complements the tart cranberries.
2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed: These tangy berries bring a vibrant color and tartness that brighten the fruit mix.
¼ cup white sugar: Provides just enough sweetness to balance the tartness without overpowering.
¼ cup real maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness with a rich, deep flavor that enhances the autumn vibes.
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Keeps the fruit bright and prevents browning while adding a subtle zing.
1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the fruit juices into a luscious filling rather than letting it runny.
1 tsp cinnamon: Warming spice that pairs perfectly with apples, pears, and cranberries alike.
½ tsp cardamom: Adds a delicate, aromatic note that lifts the traditional spice profile.
1 cup quick-cooking oats: The base of the crumbly topping that delivers chewiness and heartiness.
½ cup flour: Helps bind the topping ingredients and creates that crisp, golden crust.
⅓ cup pecans, coarsely chopped: Adds crunch and a nutty depth to the topping’s texture.
¼ cup brown sugar: Sweetens and enriches the oat topping with a hint of molasses flavor.
½ tsp cinnamon: Continues the spicy warmth in the topping for cohesive flavor.
Pinch of salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavors in the crisp.
8 tbsp unsalted butter, diced: Essential for that rich, melt-in-your-mouth crumbly texture on top.

How to Make Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Skillet

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet with cooking spray to keep the crisp from sticking and to help develop a lovely crust as it bakes. This skillet will give your crisp that rustic charm that’s perfect for serving straight from the oven.

Step 2: Mix the Fruit

In a large bowl, toss together the peeled and diced apples, pears, and fresh cranberries along with the white sugar. This simple step ensures every piece of fruit starts absorbing sweetness and releasing its natural juices, setting the stage for a juicy filling bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Liquid and Spices

Whisk together maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and cardamom in a small bowl. This mixture not only adds a beautiful warmth and depth to the fruit but also thickens those lovely juices as it bakes. The cardamom is a wonderful surprise here, giving a subtle but sophisticated flair to the classic crisp filling.

Step 4: Toss the Fruit With the Syrup Mixture

Pour your syrup and spice blend over the sugar-coated fruit and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Then transfer this vibrant fruit mixture to your prepared skillet, which will soon be filled with bubbling fruit and luscious aromas.

Step 5: Prepare the Crisp Topping

In another bowl, combine oats, flour, coarsely chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and the diced unsalted butter. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until you form a crumbly mixture. This tactile process is fun and satisfying—it’s the secret behind the crisp’s irresistible texture.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over your fruit filling, making sure it covers every bit to create a golden, crunchy top. Bake the Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp for 40 to 45 minutes until the fruit is bubbling joyfully and the topping is beautifully golden brown. Allow it to cool for 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors intensify and the juices thicken perfectly.

How to Serve Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp

Garnishes

This crisp is wonderful served warm on its own, but you can elevate it further with a few garnishes. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top creates a delightful temperature contrast, while freshly whipped cream adds lightness and richness. For a bit of festive flair, a sprinkle of toasted pecans on the whipped cream adds extra texture and nutty goodness.

Side Dishes

While the Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp shines as a standalone dessert, it pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee. If you’re serving this at a holiday meal, consider complementing it with a light salad or savory dishes to balance the sweet finale.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve the crisp in individual ramekins or mason jars—perfect for entertaining or gifting. You can also top it with a drizzle of warm caramel or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a little extra pizazz. No matter how you present it, this crisp always looks like a welcoming slice of home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? No worries! Cover the crisp tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making the next-day serving just as joyful and comforting.

Freezing

This Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, cover it well and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. It’s a handy make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To bring your crisp back to life, reheat it in a preheated 350-degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains its crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the texture may become soggy. A warm crisp with melting ice cream feels like a cozy hug in every bite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this crisp?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them well before combining with the other fruit so the filling doesn’t get too watery. Frozen cranberries work just as well, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour. Make sure your oats are labeled gluten-free too, and you’re good to go!

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Of course! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts would make delicious alternatives and add their unique crunch and flavor to the topping.

What if I don’t have cardamom on hand?

If cardamom is missing from your spice cabinet, you can skip it or replace it with a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a different but still lovely warm note.

How do I prevent the fruit from becoming mushy?

Choosing firmer apples and pears helps maintain texture during baking. Also, tossing the fruit gently and baking the crisp at the right temperature ensures the fruit softens just enough without turning mushy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm embrace, this Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp checks every box. With its harmonious balance of sweet and tart fruit, warmly spiced filling, and perfectly crunchy topping, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try this crisp, it’ll become a heartwarming staple on your dessert table. Go ahead – bake a skillet full and let the cozy goodness fill your kitchen!

Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Apple, Cranberry, and Pear Crisp is a delightful American dessert featuring a harmonious blend of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and juicy pears topped with a crunchy oat and pecan crumble. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and cardamom, this crisp offers the ideal balance of fruitiness and warmth, baked to golden perfection in a cast iron skillet. Serve it warm with whipped cream or ice cream for a comforting treat.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 10-inch cast iron skillet with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Prepare the Fruit Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and diced apples, pears, and rinsed fresh cranberries. Add the white sugar and toss everything together so the fruit is evenly coated.
Mix the Syrup and Spices: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and cardamom until well blended. This mixture will add flavor and help thicken the fruit as it bakes.
Combine Fruit and Syrup Mixture: Pour the syrup-spice mixture over the fruit and toss gently until all the pieces are evenly coated. Transfer this fruit mixture into the prepared cast iron skillet.
Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the quick-cooking oats, flour, chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add the diced unsalted butter and use your fingers to rub the ingredients together until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs.
Apply the Topping: Sprinkle the crumbly oat topping evenly over the fruit mixture in the skillet, covering the fruit completely for a delicious crust.
Bake the Crisp: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the fruit is bubbling and the oat topping has turned a golden brown color.
Cool and Serve: Remove the crisp from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. Serve warm, plain or topped with whipped cream or ice cream as desired. Enjoy this comforting dessert!

Notes

To ensure even cooking, dice the fruit into similar-sized pieces.
If fresh cranberries are not available, frozen cranberries can be used; just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the topping.
You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different taste and health benefits.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free oats and flour alternatives.
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American