What Is a Pear Cobbler?

A pear cobbler is a baked fruit pudding with a pastry topping that is eaten as a dessert. These types of dishes are particularly popular in the US, especially in the southern states of the country. The word "cobbler" refers to the appearance of the pastry topping, which is often made to have the uneven, rather rough appearance of a cobbled street. The fruit filling can be made from fresh or canned pears, although many cooks tend to lean towards using fresh, well-ripened fruits if these are available. A pear cobbler is generally eaten with ice cream or cream.

If fresh, well-ripened pears are used for making the pear cobbler, it is necessary to peel the fruit beforehand. The pears are halved, the seeds are removed and the fruit is then cut into very thin slices. The pear slices are then sprinkled with powdered sugar, cinnamon, raisins, honey, lemon juice and grated lemon rind. The fruit mix can be left to marinate as it is or it can be processed in a food processor to get a smooth blend. It may also be cooked in a pan for up to five to ten minutes on medium heat until the pears start bubbling; it is important to keep stirring constantly while cooking with pears to prevent the mix from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

The pear filling, once it is done, is set aside to cool while the crust topping to be used in the cobbler is being prepared. To make the topping for the pear cobbler, all-purpose flour can be used, or, better yet, as a healthier option, wheat flour can be used. The flour is mixed well with butter, buttermilk, honey and chopped nuts, and this mix too may be blended together in a food processor if a smoother topping is desired.

The peach cobber filling, after it has cooled sufficiently, is poured into a baking pan. The crust topping is then ladled on top of the pear filling, taking care to ensure that it is spread about evenly. The baking pan is then placed in the oven and baked for about half an hour at a high temperature. The pear cobbler is considered done when the crust has thickened and turned golden-brown in color.