pear crisps with vanilla brown butter

INGREDIENTS

• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 1/2 stick unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole almonds with skin
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 lb firm-ripe Anjou or Bartlett pears (about 6), peeled and coarsely chopped
• 2 tablespoons pear brandy or eau-de-vie