Cheddar Pear Pie

Seems like apples get all the praise during the autumn and pears are seen more as a second rate fall fruit. Since they must be picked before they are ripe and they turn quickly, pears are much more difficult to keep hanging around the kitchen. All the more reason why we should enjoy this sweet fruit while we can! They are always delicious by themselves, but for an unusual treat, give this recipe a try that I adapted from Recipezaar. It's different, but very good!

Photo : Thalo-Porter

Cheddar Pear Pie

In a bowl combine:
4 - 6 large fresh pears peeled and thinly sliced
1/3 cup sucanat (you could use sugar as well)
1 T. cornstarch
1/8 tsp. salt

Pour into:
1 9" unbaked pie crust (I like to use whole wheat which I order from my co-op)
For the topping, combine the following until crumbly and then sprinkle over the filling:
1/2 C. sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 C. whole wheat pastry flour
1/4 C. butter, melted
1/4 C. suganat
1/4 tsp. salt

Bake at 425 degrees for 25-25 minutes or until crust is gold and cheese is melted. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving. Store in the refrigerator.

Served with a cup of hot tea or coffee....Mmmmm. Autumn soul food once again. Is there any wonder that I always gain 5 pounds this time of year? Oh, well. January will be here soon enough.
The Cottage Comtesse