Pear Dumplings

Combine the first 3 ingredients; blend with a baking blender until the mixture is crumbly. Gradually add the milk, stirring just enough to make a soft dough.Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll out into a 21-inch x 14-inch rectangle. Cut the rectangle into 6 (7-inch) squares using a baking dish.Peel the pears, leaving the skin on. Remove the core from the bottom of each pear, leaving 2 inches on top. Place each pear on a baking dish.Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts; place 2 teaspoons of the mixture on the core of each pear, pressing tightly. Brush the tops of the pears evenly with butter. Moisten the edges of the dumplings with water. Bring the corners to the center, pinching the edges to seal. Transfer to a lightly greased 13-inch x 9-inch baking dish.Bake at 375 ° C for 40-50 minutes, covered with aluminum foil after 30 minutes to prevent excessive browning.In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the remaining pear skin, sugar, and the following 4 ingredients to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes or until the butter has melted and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat. Pour through a mesh sieve into a bowl, removing any residue. Pour the syrup over the dumplings. Serve immediately.