Ingredients
4 cups chopped peeled fresh pears1/2 cup dried cherries1/4 cup packed brown sugar2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger1 tablespoon all-purpose flour3 tablespoons butterTOPPING:1/4 cup sugar2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger1 cup all-purpose flour1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder1/8 teaspoon baking soda1/4 teaspoon salt5 tablespoons cold butter, cubed1/2 cup buttermilk
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients; transfer to a greased 12-in. cast-iron skillet or 2-qt. baking dish. Heat butter in a small saucepan over medium heat for 7 minutes or until golden brown; pour over pear mixture. Cover and bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.
In a food processor, combine sugar and ginger; cover and process until finely chopped. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; cover and process for 3 seconds or until blended. Add butter; process until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add buttermilk and pulse just until a soft dough forms. Drop by tablespoonfuls over warm pear mixture.
Bake, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown. Serve warm.
