Line a 9×9” pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Prepare the crust by mixing all the crust ingredients until crumbly. Press the crust into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.

Prepare the filling by placing the diced pears in a medium saucepan. Fill the pan with water to cover half the pears. Cook over medium heat until boiling, then simmer for about 5 minutes until pears are semi-translucent. Drain well.

Make the topping by creaming the butter and sugar. Add the flour, almonds, and salt, and mix slowly until crumbly.

Drain the pears again and sprinkle with the cinnamon and sugar. Remove the hot crust from the oven, layer the pears on top, then add the topping.

Bake for an additional 22-27 minutes until the topping starts to brown. Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Serve with caramel sauce and/or ice cream or whipped cream. Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to one month.