PEAR, GINGER AND OAT CRUMBLE SLICE

Pears and ginger are a classic pairing, and this crumble slice is a great way to make the most of them. With a buttery oat base, spiced pear filling and golden crumble topping, it has all the comfort of a fruit crumble in a slice that's perfect with a cup of tea.

Makes: 12–16 pieces

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 45 minutes

Skill: Easy

Ingredients

Pear Filling

700g pears, peeled and diced

50g brown sugar

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp cornflour

Base & Crumble

180g unsalted butter, melted

120g brown sugar

200g plain flour

120g rolled oats

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

Method

Heat the oven to 170°C fan bake. Line a 20 x 30cm slice tin with baking paper.

Place the pears, brown sugar, lemon juice, ginger and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears have softened.

Mix the cornflour with 1 tablespoon cold water. Stir into the pear mixture and cook for 1 minute, or until thickened. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.

For the base and crumble, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon and salt in a large bowl. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and begins to clump together.

Press two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the base of the prepared tin.

Spread the pear filling evenly over the base.

Scatter the remaining crumble mixture over the top.

Bake for 40 - 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.

Leave to cool completely in the tin before slicing into squares.