Ingredients

Preparation 25 minutes, cooking time 25 to 30 minutes

For the filling:
6 large, slightly under-ripe Bartlett pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 cups)
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the topping:
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3 tablespoons butter, softened
2/3 cup finely shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
3 to 4 tablespoons milk
1 egg

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 F. Butter a 2-quart shallow baking dish and set aside.

Combine all filling ingredients in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat until pears are hot and mixture is slightly thick, about 5 minutes; pour into prepared baking dish.

To prepare topping: Stir together flour, sugar and baking powder in a small bowl. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cheese, milk and egg (mixture will be very thick). Drop by spoonfuls over pear filling. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until topping mixture is set, tenting loosely with foil if topping browns too quickly.

Let cool slightly and serve. This dessert is best when still slightly warm. Top with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Makes 8 servings.

Nutrition information per serving: 395 cal., 9 g fat, 7 g pro., 75 g carbo., 5 g fiber, 49 mg chol., 224 mg sodium.