Cardamom White Chocolate Pear Crumble

Say that title 10 times fast! This dessert has so many different elements going on, all of which combine for an amazing flavor profile, that it is impossible to properly describe! I had been watching the new show, Spice & Easy, and the host was poaching pears with cardamom. While it looked delicious, I am not a fan of poached pears. However, I knew that pears and cardamom could make for an amazing combination. I decided to make a crumble in these cute mini-crocks that I have. I made this from scratch and it didn’t take long at all. Since I am not a big dessert person, I was so excited about this dessert that I rambled about it for days. I will definitely be making this again, and I cant wait to share it with everyone! When making this, estimate approximately 1 pear per person. This recipe makes enough for 4.

Cardamom White Chocolate Pear Crumble
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Cook Time: 35 minutes

4 bosc pears, peeled and diced
1/2 stick butter substitute (I use smart balance)
1/2 cup organic sugar
1/2 tsp cardamom powder
1 vanilla bean pod (or 1/4 tsp vanilla extract)

Crumble:
1 1/2 cups of oats
1 cup flour
1/2 cup brown sugar Splenda mix (equivalent of 1 cup regular brown sugar)
1 stick of butter substitute, softened (I use smart balance)
1/2 cup chopped white chocolate discs (or chips)

(1) In a saute pan, melt half of stick of butter over medium heat. Add diced pears, sugar, cardamom powder, and vanilla pod. Mix well.
(2) Let the pears cook over the heat for approximately 10 minutes. Remove the vanilla pod at the end and discard.
(3) In a large mixing bowl, combine all of the crumble ingredients, except the white chocolate. Mix well with your hands until the mixture is dry, but clumpy. If it is too wet, you can add some more oats and flour. If too dry, add a little water.
(4) Add the white chocolate into the crumble, and mix well again.
(5) In a lightly buttered pan, add the pear mixture. Top with the crumble.
(6) Bake in the oven for approximately 25 minutes. Serve warm, and, if desired, with vanilla ice cream.

Tags: Vanilla Bean