Mini Pear Bettys

4.8

(10)

Servings:

6

This easy pear dessert is made in individual portions. There are two layers of Bartlett pears and in between and on top is a blend of torn sourdough bread, butter, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of apple cider. The Bettys are a comforting dessert that’s as simple to make as a fruit crisp and just as delicious. The topping turns golden brown as it bakes, and the pear filling becomes soft and sweet, absorbing the warm spices. Make them all through fall and enjoy the cozy flavors.

Directions

Preheat oven; toast bread and cool, then crush:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Place bread on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake, stirring halfway through, until golden brown, 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool completely. Transfer to a resealable plastic bag; seal bag. Coarsely crush with a rolling pin so that the largest pieces are the size of peas.
Melt butter; stir in sugar, spices, cider, and lemon:

Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Remove from heat. Stir in breadcrumbs, sugar, spices, salt, 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons cider, and the lemon juice. Let stand 10 minutes.
Peel and cut pears; divide half between ramekins:

Peel pears; cut into 1/2-inch chunks. Place a heaping 1/2 cup pears in each of 6 small (5-inch) pie plates or ramekins.
Top with breadcrumbs; repeat layers:

Top each with 1/4 cup breadcrumb mixture; drizzle each with 1 tablespoon cider. Top with remaining pears, then with remaining breadcrumb mixture.
Bake covered; uncover and continue baking:

Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper; cover with foil. Bake 30 minutes. Uncover; bake until topping is browned and juices are bubbling, about 15 minutes. Let cool on sheet on a wire rack 15 minutes before serving.