Great dessert in Winter when pears are in season, and easy.
1 c. unbleached white all-purpose flour
2/3 c. white sugar
1-1/2 t. baking powder
½ t. ground cinnamon
¼ t. salt
pinch of cloves
½ c. milk
4 medium pears, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
½ c. chopped pecans
¾ c. packed brown sugar
¼ c. butter
¾ c. boiling water
vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, optional
In a large bowl, combine flour, 2/3 cup white sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt and cloves. Beat in milk until smooth.
Stir in pears and pecans.
Spoon into an ungreased 2-quart baking dish or 9x9-inch baking pan
In another bowl, combine brown sugar, butter and hot water; pour over batter.
Bake at 375 degrees, uncovered for 45-50 minutes.
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.