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Paying homage to the lush, fruitful valleys of Oregon, we are about to embark on a culinary journey with Oregon’s Best: Delicious Pear and Hazelnut Crisp Recipe. Oregon, an agricultural paradise, is renowned for its superior pears and hazelnuts, that are celebrated for their distinctive flavors. This recipe harmoniously unites these two iconic ingredients, creating a dessert that is as rich in local tradition as it is in flavor.

This version of the Pear and Hazelnut Crisp Recipe is truly special, as it showcases the unadulterated flavors of Oregon’s prized produce. It’s not just a dessert, but a sensory experience that transports you to the heart of Oregon’s picturesque landscapes. The sweetness of the perfectly ripened pears is beautifully balanced by the earthy crunch of the hazelnuts, all topped with a crispy, golden crust that adds an irresistible textural contrast.

As you dig into this warm, comforting dessert, allow the symphony of flavors to unfold on your palate. The buttery crunch, the nutty undertones, and the sweet, juicy pears come together to create a gastronomic masterpiece. Serve this delightful crisp warm, with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, for an unforgettable finish to any meal. This recipe is not just a testament to Oregon’s bountiful harvest, but an invitation to explore and savor the flavors of this beautiful region. So, tie on your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a piece of Oregon’s culinary history in your own kitchen.

Main Ingredients

• 6 ripe Oregon pears (peeled, cored and sliced)
• 1 cup hazelnuts (toasted and coarsely chopped)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)

Seasonings and Spices

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

• to taste vanilla ice cream
• to taste caramel sauce

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will provide the ideal temperature for baking the crisp.
   Tip: Make sure your oven is properly preheated before you put your dish in, as this affects the cooking time and texture of the crisp.
2. Wash and core the pears, then cut them into thin slices. No need to peel them, as the skins add texture and nutritional value.
   Tip: Choose ripe but firm pears. They should give slightly when gently pressed, but shouldn’t be mushy.
3. Roughly chop the hazelnuts into small pieces. This will release their natural oils and enhance their flavor in the crisp.
   Tip: You can also toast the hazelnuts lightly before chopping to further intensify their flavor.

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, half of the chopped hazelnuts, half of the brown sugar, the cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix gently until the pears are evenly coated.
   Tip: Make sure every slice of pear is coated with the sugar and spices for a uniform flavor.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, the remaining brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   Tip: Make sure the butter is cold. This will help achieve a crumbly texture.
3. Spread the pear mixture evenly in a baking dish, then sprinkle the oat mixture over the top. Scatter the remaining hazelnuts over the oat mixture.
   Tip: Make sure the oat mixture covers the pears completely. The hazelnuts on top will become toasty and golden as the crisp bakes.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for around 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pears are bubbling.
   Tip: Keep an eye on the crisp during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. The pears should be tender when pierced with a fork.

Finishing Touches

1. Remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to thicken slightly.
   Tip: Resist the temptation to dig in immediately, as the filling will be extremely hot.
2. Serve the pear and hazelnut crisp warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
   Tip: The cold ice cream or warm caramel sauce provides a wonderful contrast to the warm, crunchy crisp. Enjoy this tasty tribute to Oregon’s bountiful harvest!