Pear Cranberry Crisp

It' that time of year when cranberries are in season 
and plentiful.  Since they are part of our diet this time of year I wanted to offer up a little information about them and a recipe you can make for the holidays. 

Cranberries are a rich source of procyanidins, phytochemicals that appear to prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract and causing infection.  Researchers speculate that regularly drinking a glass of cranberry juice may deliver enough procyanidins to help ward off a urinary tract infection. They may also offer protection against cancer and cardiovascular disease. They are low in calories and a good source of vitamin C. 

This recipe is not one of those sugary sweet ones and so perfect for people who like things a little lighter.  

Ingredients:
4 very ripe pears
1 cup whole cranberries
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup oatmeal
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter

Topping can be whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

In a medium bowl combine the peeled, cored and cubed pears, cranberry's, maple syrup, and lemon juice and toss well.

In another bowl combine the oatmeal, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.  Cut in the butter to resemble course crumbs. 

Spoon the pear mixture into a 8 x 8 inch baking dish, top with the oatmeal mixture.  Bake for 10 minutes are 400, then reduce the heat to 350 and cook for 20 minutes more, or until fruit is bubbling.

Serve warm with desired topping or alone.  This is also fine at room temp.  

Enjoy!