Ward Chili/Pie Cook-off

As many of you know, I have no delusions when it comes to my abilities in the kitchen. I have never really had the time or inclination to become more than proficient when it comes to food prep. Jasen, on the other hand, is becoming quite a master. He researched, found a recipe and then made a fabulous Green Chili for our ward's annual Chili/Pie Cook-off. It was so yummy and it won!! I am quite proud of him!!

Emma and I made a Pear/Maple Pie for the cook-off and it won as well.
I am a little less proud about the pie, as I stole the recipe from the Family Fun Magazine. I am glad the kids enjoy participating so much!! They are so great!! This is our pie recipe. Jasen's is "secret"! Sorry!!

Pear Maple Heaven Pie

Filling
5 ½ to 6 cups peeled ½-inch diced just ripe pears (about 8 small pears)
1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
Pinch of salt
¼ cup sugar
¼ cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
½ teaspoon ground ginger

9- or 9 ½ -inch deep-dish pie crust

Topping
2/3 cup flour
½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
½ cup packed light brown sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup cold butter, cut into 1/4 inch pieces


Heat oven to 400 degrees. Sprinkle cornstarch over diced pears and stir well. Add remaining filling ingredients and toss gently until evenly combined. Pour into chilled pie crust. Smooth out the fruit. Place on center oven rack and bake for 45 minutes. (A piece of foil on the rack below your pie will save you lots of messy drips in the oven.)

Now make the topping. Combine the flour, oats, sugar, salt and nuts. Mix. Add the butter. Using your hands, rub the ingredients together until you have large crumbs. Refrigerate until you are ready to use it.

After 45 minutes, lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees. Remove pie from oven (watch out for drips) and carefully pour the topping crumbs in the center of the pie, then spread them evenly. Return the pie to the oven and bake until juices bubble thickly, about 15 minutes. Cool pie for at least an hour before serving.

YUMMY!!!