The aroma of simmering pear butter wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine spreading that luscious, velvety delight on freshly baked bread, each bite bursting with sweet and spicy notes that dance on your palate.
As if that isn’t enough to get your taste buds tingling, I’ve got to share the joy of making this delightful concoction. Picture yourself in a cozy kitchen, surrounded by friends or family, laughing as you peel and chop pears. This is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that transforms ordinary moments into cherished memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pear butter is incredibly easy to make, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks
- The flavor is a delightful blend of sweetness and warmth, ideal for any breakfast or snack
- Its golden hue makes it visually appealing, sure to impress your guests
- Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries—its versatility knows no bounds!
I still remember the first time I made pear butter; my friends couldn’t get enough of it and were begging for the recipe before they’d even finished their first slice.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ripe Pears: Choose juicy pears that are soft but not overly mushy for the best flavor and texture.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar works best; adjust according to the sweetness of your pears.
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Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth; feel free to increase this if you’re a cinnamon lover.
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Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg enhances flavor complexity—use fresh if you can!
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Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and prevents browning of the pears.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the overall taste; skip imitation varieties for the best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Pears: Begin by washing and peeling your ripe pears. Cut them into quarters and remove any seeds or tough bits so they cook down nicely.
Cook Down the Mixture: In a large pot over medium heat, combine your chopped pears with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir occasionally until everything melds beautifully together.
Simmer Away!: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 45 minutes until the pears are soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Purée Until Smooth: Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a regular blender), purée the mixture until it’s silky smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids!
Jar It Up!: Pour your pear butter into sterilized jars while still warm. Seal tightly and let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating or giving away as gifts.
Now you have a jarful of homemade goodness that’ll make breakfast feel like an event! Enjoy your homemade pear butter spread over toast or drizzled on pancakes—it’s pure bliss!
You Must Know
- Pear butter isn’t just a spread; it’s a cozy hug in a jar
- The aroma of cooking pears fills your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up seasonal pears before they turn into mush
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by peeling and coring the pears, then simmer them with sugar and spices until tender. Blend until smooth for that luscious texture, and return to heat until thickened.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices! A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate your pear butter, while adding vanilla brings a delightful sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your pear butter in sterilized jars in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider canning it. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, use ripe but firm pears for your butter
- Avoid overcooking as this can lead to burnt sugar notes
- Always taste and adjust sweetness as desired for a balanced finish
Cooking pear butter reminds me of lazy autumn afternoons with my grandma, who always had a pot bubbling on the stove and stories to share.
FAQ
What type of pears are best for pear butter?
Bartlett and Bosc pears are excellent choices due to their sweetness and texture.
Can I freeze pear butter for later use?
Yes, pear butter freezes well in airtight containers for up to six months.
How long should I cook pear butter?
Simmer your pear butter for about 30-45 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
Homemade Pear Butter
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Experience the warmth of homemade pear butter, a delightful spread that transforms simple breakfasts into special moments. With a perfect blend of ripe pears, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness, this easy-to-make recipe will fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and create cherished memories with every jar.
Ingredients
- 4 cups ripe pears (about 6–8 medium pears), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on pear sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare your pears by washing, peeling, and coring them. Chop into quarters.
- In a large pot over medium heat, combine the chopped pears, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir occasionally until well mixed.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes until the pears are soft.
- Using an immersion blender or regular blender, purée the mixture until smooth.
- Pour the pear butter into sterilized jars while warm. Seal tightly and allow to cool before refrigeration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Spread
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 42
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
