Nothing quite captures the essence of a cozy evening like the warm, sweet aroma of a freshly baked dessert wafting through your kitchen. The Easy Skillet Pear Crisp is the perfect dish for those moments when you just want to unwind at home, perhaps while sharing stories with loved ones or curling up with a good book. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
This recipe draws inspiration from classic family gatherings where no meal would be complete without a sweet treat to share. The simplicity of the dish is part of its charm—it allows you to savor the natural sweetness of ripe pears, enhanced with a crunchy topping that adds just the right amount of texture. What sets this pear crisp apart is not just how easy it is to whip up but also its ability to please a variety of palates and dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re searching for a dessert that combines ease with deliciousness, look no further than this Easy Skillet Pear Crisp. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a holiday celebration. You’ll love how quickly you can prepare this dish—it’s as simple as slicing pears and mixing a few ingredients in a skillet!
The combination of tender, caramelized pears with a crumbly oat topping is hard to resist. Plus, this recipe allows for versatility; you can easily customize it with spices, nuts, or even a scoop of ice cream on top! It’s a dessert that fosters creativity and invites personal touches, whether you’re making it for yourself or a gathering.
What Does The Recipe Taste Like
The Easy Skillet Pear Crisp is a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. The star of the show is, of course, the pears, which become beautifully soft and sweet as they cook. Their natural juices caramelize, creating a rich, syrupy base that complements the crunchy topping. The topping, made from oats and sugars, provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softness of the fruit, creating a satisfying experience with every bite.
Expect notes of warm cinnamon and nutmeg infusing the dish, enhancing the sweet aroma of baked fruit. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug, making it a perfect dessert for those chilly evenings or special family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you need to create this scrumptious Easy Skillet Pear Crisp.
Main Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc): The star of the dish, these pears bring a delicious sweetness and juicy texture. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully when cooked, providing a fantastic base for your crisp.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: This adds richness and depth of flavor. The molasses content in brown sugar creates a lovely caramel flavor that pairs perfectly with the pears.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice offers warmth and complexity, rounding out the sweetness of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg enhances the cozy feel of this dessert, adding a subtle spiciness that complements the pears wonderfully.
- 1 cup rolled oats: These provide the crunch in the topping, making it hearty and delightful.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This ingredient helps bind the topping together while still allowing for a crumbly texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: The fat from the butter helps create a crunchy topping and adds richness to the dish.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans) (optional): These can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you’re looking for an extra savory element.

Optional Additions
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Coconut flakes: For a tropical twist, mix in some coconut flakes with the oat topping.
- Vanilla extract: Adding a teaspoon can enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.
Special Garnishes
- Vanilla ice cream: The contrast of hot crisp and cold ice cream is a classic pairing.
- Fresh mint leaves: For a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Cream or whipped topping: A dollop of cream can make the dessert feel even more indulgent.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up your Easy Skillet Pear Crisp? Follow these clear and detailed steps to ensure the best results:
- Prep the pears: Start by washing, peeling, and slicing your ripe pears into thin wedges. This ensures they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.
- Cook the pears: Place the sliced pears in a large skillet over medium heat. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the pears soften and release their juices.
- Make the topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, and melted butter. Mix until the oats are thoroughly coated. Consider adding nuts and salt if you’re using them.
- Assemble the crisp: Once the pears are tender and syrupy, sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over them in the skillet.
- Cook the crisp: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the crisp is bubbly and golden, remove it from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm, topped with your favorite garnish!

Recipe Variations
This Easy Skillet Pear Crisp is highly versatile! You can easily switch up the fruits by using apples, peaches, or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour and use gluten-free oats. For an extra flavor kick, add a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the pear mixture for a boozy twist. The possibilities are endless with this delightful dessert!
Serving and Storage Tips
Once your Easy Skillet Pear Crisp is ready, it’s best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven, but you can also store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you prefer your crisp nice and crunchy, consider reheating it without a cover for a few minutes.
This dish is perfect for parties and gatherings, served in the skillet for a rustic presentation. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an unforgettable dessert experience that guests will love.
Helpful Tips
Here are a few tips to make your Easy Skillet Pear Crisp even better:
- Choose ripe pears for the best flavor. They should be slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy.
- Don’t skip the spices! They add depth to the dish and enhance the natural flavors of the fruit.
- Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness according to your taste. You can reduce or increase the amount of sugar based on the ripeness of the pears.
Special Equipment
To make your Easy Skillet Pear Crisp, you will need a large skillet, preferably one that’s oven-safe for easy transition from stovetop to oven. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the assembled mixture to a baking dish before finishing it in the oven. A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for prepping your pears, while mixing bowls will help you gather your ingredients and toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the pear filling in advance and keep it stored in the refrigerator. Just add the topping and bake it right before serving to ensure it stays crisp.
What type of pears work best in this recipe?
Bartlett and Bosc pears are excellent choices because they have a good balance of sweetness and texture that holds up well during cooking.
Can I freeze the Easy Skillet Pear Crisp?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it is fully cooled before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Are there any gluten-free options available?
Absolutely! Just substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the oats are labeled gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
The Easy Skillet Pear Crisp is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that invites you to share moments with loved ones. With its simple preparation and comforting flavors, it embodies everything that makes home cooking special. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe guarantees smiles and satisfied taste buds.
We encourage you to give this delicious recipe a try! Don’t forget to share your experiences or any variations you’ve made in the comments below. This dish is all about making sweet memories, one bite at a time, so gather your loved ones and enjoy this heartfelt treat together.
Print
Delicious Easy Skillet Pear Crisp Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Savor this quick, irresistible Easy Skillet Pear Crisp recipe, perfect for a delightful dessert that’s simple to make and full of flavor
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans) (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- Coconut flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
- Cream or whipped topping (for serving)
Instructions
- Prep the pears: Start by washing, peeling, and slicing your ripe pears into thin wedges.
- Cook the pears: Place the sliced pears in a large skillet over medium heat. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the pears soften and release their juices.
- Make the topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, and melted butter. Mix until the oats are thoroughly coated. Consider adding nuts and salt if using.
- Assemble the crisp: Once the pears are tender and syrupy, sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over them in the skillet.
- Cook the crisp: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve and enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm, topped with your favorite garnish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 calories
- Sugar: 20 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 2 grams




