This is the time of year to embrace pears. When the markets are not overflowing with an abundance of berries, peaches and plums or even crisp fall apples, citrus and pears seem to shine through the winter months. I’m actually surprised I don’t eat pears more often because whenever I do, I love them. They are so juicy and sweet. Unfortunately their mild flavor and homely looks are easily overshadowed by the flashier seasonal fruits most of the year. But this is a recipe that lets pears shine while also providing a healthy breakfast. Oh yeah – and it tastes like pie (or cobbler, or crisp).
I’ve made a lot of different types of granola but I think this was the quickest and easiest of all the versions I’ve tried. Thankfully, that did not translate to a mediocre outcome. Ben and I both agreed that even on its own, this is very good granola and would be a great base recipe for all kinds of additions. Layering the granola with warm spiced pears made for a wonderful breakfast. And when Ben said, “I feel like I’m eating pie for breakfast!”, I had to agree. The concept of this recipe could be adapted in tons of ways to accommodate different seasonal fruits and flavors but for now, I’m happy to let the pears take the starring role.