Pear Walnut Squares

When the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of freshly baked treats wafting through a cozy home. Today, we’re bringing you a delightful recipe that perfectly captures the essence of the season – Pear Walnut Squares. These easy-to-make treats combine the sweet juiciness of pears with the nutty crunch of walnuts for a truly irresistible dessert. Whether you’re looking for a cozy snack to enjoy with a cup of tea or a crowd-pleasing dessert for your next gathering, these Pear Walnut Squares are sure to impress.

Pear Walnut Squares

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3. Add the chilled butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together. It may be slightly crumbly, but that’s okay.

5. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, using your hands or the back of a spoon to create an even layer.

6. In a separate bowl, combine the diced pears and chopped walnuts. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough in the pan.

7. Crumble the remaining dough over the pear and walnut layer, creating a streusel-like topping.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.

9. Allow the Pear Walnut Squares to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares.

10. Just before serving, dust the squares with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.

These Pear Walnut Squares are best enjoyed warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of sweet pears, crunchy walnuts, and buttery dough is simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking these for a special occasion or just to treat yourself on a cozy evening at home, these squares are sure to become a favorite in your fall baking repertoire. Enjoy the flavors of the season with every delicious bite of these delightful treats!