Caramelized Pumpkin and Pear Crumble



2 large ripe pears, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
14 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 15-ounce cans pumpkin puree
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup walnut pieces

1. In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, combine pears, 4 tablespoons of butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and spices and cook until the pears are tender, 9 to 10 minutes. Add pumpkin and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Place the flour, brown sugar, and remaining butter in a bowl. With your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until large crumbs form. Add the walnuts and combine well.
2. Heat oven to 375°. In a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, spread the pumpkin-pear mixture evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle the topping over it and bake until golden brown and bubbling, about 40 to 50 minutes. Serve warm.

Serves 8

Cooking Light