Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prep a loaf pan with non-stick spray.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ginger in a large bowl. Divide the flour mixture into thirds and set aside.
Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla and egg, mixing well.
Reduce the mixer speed to low, and carefully add in 1/3 of the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, then add in 1/2 of the milk and mix lightly.
Add in another 1/3 of the flour mixture, again mixing until just blended. Then add in the remaining 1/2 of the milk, mix lightly.
Add in the final 1/3 of the flour mixture, and mix until just combined.
Stir in the pears.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan using a spatula to evenly spread it around.
Sprinkle the topping over the batter., then use your hands to lightly press the topping down into the batter so it sticks better once baked.
Bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes until the bread has browned and an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before flipping it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.