There is something so calming and satisfying about the scent of pears baking with oats and cinnamon and brown sugar: it makes the whole house smell like autumn. And the results are sheer dessert heaven!

Try this easy crisp recipe and savor every bit of it: the rich homey scent as it bakes, and the crunchy-tender texture and sweet harvest flavor of the warm, comforting dish itself. It’s no wonder Pear and Brown Sugar Crisp is one of our favorite fall pleasures.

INGREDIENTS

Topping
2/3 cup flour
5 tablespoons butter, softened
3/4 cup rolled oats (instant or old-fashioned oatmeal)
1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
pinch salt

Pear Filling
6 large pears, such as Bosc or Bartlett, cored and cut into 1-inch long by 1/2-inch thick pieces
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/3 cup light brown or regular sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
pinch ground cloves
4 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch

1. In a food processor, combine the flour, butter, oats, dark brown sugar, and salt. Pulse until the mixture starts to hold together, then set aside.

2. Preheat oven to 350F. In a large bowl, mix pears, lemon juice, vanilla, light brown or regular sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and cornstarch; toss to combine.

3. Pour pear mixture into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish or 6 individual ramekins. Cover with topping. Turn oven down to 325F and bake the crisp until the top is golden brown and the pears are tender, 70 to 80 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serves 6.