Fresh ginger takes this apple-pear cobbler to a whole new level of yum!

Apple-Pear Cobbler

3 apples, peeled, cored and thinly sliced
3 firm ripe pear, peeled, cored and thinly sliced
1 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed - divided use
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger* - divided use
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup quick or old fashioned oats
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter
2/3 cup milk
Vanilla ice cream for accompaniment (optional)

1. Heat oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. In large bowl, combine the prepared fruit.
3. In small bowl, combine 3/4 cup of the brown sugar, the cornstarch and 1 teaspoon of the ginger. Add to fruit; mix to coat well. Spoon into 2 1/2-quart baking dish.
4. Bake uncovered 20 minutes.
5. In large bowl, combine flour, oats, remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar, baking powder, remaining 1 teaspoon ginger and salt; mix well. Cut in butter with pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk with a fork until a soft dough forms.
6. Turn out onto lightly floured surface; knead gently 6 to 8 times. Pat dough into a rectangle 1/2-inch thick. Cut into 8 to 10 square biscuits.
7. Remove baking dish from oven; stir fruit. Carefully arrange biscuits over hot fruit; press lightly into fruit.
8. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown and fruit mixture is bubbly.
9. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, if desired. Cover and refrigerate leftovers.

Makes 8 to 10 servings.

*Or use 2 teaspoons ground ginger.