You need the butter for the sauce. The brown sugar, butter and the juice from the pear creates the sauce.

I make something very similar in cast iron skillet over a stove. No raisin and no breadcrumb. And instead of water, I use brandy instead. Better if you can get Eau de vie of pear. Serve with side of vanilla ice cream. yummo. Eau de vie is pricey but I'm not using much so its still okay.