This Unbelievable Pear & Dark Chocolate Crumble is a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Juicy, tender pears mingle with rich, velvety dark chocolate, creating a luscious filling that’s perfectly balanced.

Topped with a golden, buttery crumble that’s crisp yet melt-in-your-mouth, every bite is a symphony of textures. Ready in just over an hour, it’s surprisingly simple to make but tastes like it came straight from a cozy bakery.

The combination of sweet pears and bittersweet chocolate is pure magic, offering a dessert that’s indulgent yet not overly heavy. With its irresistible aroma and comforting flavors, this crumble is perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is unforgettable.

Ingredients for Unbelievable Pear & Dark Chocolate Crumble

Pear Filling:
7-8 ripe pears (Bartlett or D’Anjou, peeled, cored, and chopped)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Chocolate Crumble Topping:
1 cup (5 oz/142 g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (4 ½ oz/128 g) dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons Dutch process cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (6 oz/170 g) cold butter, cubed
½ cup (3 oz/85 g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Crumble Topping: In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix lightly. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a dough cutter to rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. (Alternatively, use a food processor for this step.) Stir in the chopped chocolate. Set aside in the fridge until ready to use.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Grease a 9-inch baking dish (wide and shallow works best for this recipe).
Make the Pear Filling: In a bowl, toss the chopped pears with cornstarch and lemon juice until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Assemble the Crumble: Evenly distribute the chocolate crumble topping over the pear filling. (It will look like a lot, but it will bake down.)
Bake: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the pears are soft and the topping is golden and crisp.
Serve: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

This Unbelievable Pear & Dark Chocolate Crumble shines when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a decadent twist, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with chopped toasted nuts like almonds or hazelnuts. Pair it with a cup of espresso or spiced chai tea for a cozy dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. For a crispier topping, broil for 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning!

Recipe Variations to Try

Swap pears for apples or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the crumble topping. For a nutty crunch, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans with the chocolate. Gluten-free? Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Time-Saving Hacks

To speed up prep, use a food processor to make the crumble topping in seconds. If you’re short on time, skip peeling the pears—just make sure they’re thoroughly washed. You can also prepare the crumble topping a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Equipment Guidance

A 9-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe, ensuring the pears cook evenly and the crumble topping gets crispy. If you don’t have a dough cutter, your fingertips work just as well for rubbing in the butter. A peeler and sharp knife will make prepping the pears a breeze.