4 tbsps unsalted butter, softened & cut into small pieces .
1/4 tsp salt .
1 1/2 c all-purpose flour .
1 1/2 c sliced walnuts .
1 tsp vanilla extract .
Streusel Topping .
1/4 tsp baking soda .
6 tbsps milk .
3 eggs, at about room temp .
1 c sugar .
1 c firmly packed light brown sugar .
3/4 c unsalted butter, softened .
1 1/2 tsps cinnamon
Directions
Step #1 Grease & lightly flour 12 large muffin c.
Step #2 To make the topping: in a mixing bowl, mix the brown sugar & cinnamon.
Step #3 Using a pastry mixer, cut the butter into the brown sugar mixture until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step #4 Add in the walnuts; using your hands, toss until the ingredients are well mixd; set aside.
Step #5 To make the buns: in a small mixing bowl, baking soda, mix the flour, & salt; set aside.
Step #6 In a larger mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the butter, until smooth.
Step #7 Add in the sugar slowly & beat about 3 mins or until fluffy.
Step #8 Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step #9 Add in the dry ingredients in two parts, alternating with the milk & vanilla, beating after each addition until well incorporated.
Step #10 Stir in the pears.
Step #11 Spoon batter into the muffin c.
Step #12 Sprinkle top the streusel topping over the top of the buns, being sure to keep the crumbs within the muffin c (or the buns will be difficult to remove this from the pan).
Step #13 Bake in a 350° oven for 20-25 mins or until pick comes out clean.