Caramel Pear Bars
Sweet and spiced caramel pear bars combine tender pears, cinnamon, raisins, and walnuts for a flavorful treat perfect for dessert or teatime gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pears and reserve the syrup.
- Finely dice the pears.
- Cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, along with 1/2 cup of the pear syrup.
- Stir in the diced pears, raisins, and chopped walnuts.
- Spread the batter into a prepared baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh pears instead of canned ones. You can also substitute half of the sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. If you're looking for a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with pumpkin seeds. For an extra touch, add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter, which complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside other seasonal desserts or browse more American recipes for a festive dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Caramel Pear Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Pear Bars contains roughly 828 calories, with 6g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), iron (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fruit instead of pears?
Yes, you can substitute pears with apples or peaches. If using apples, consider adding a bit more cinnamon to enhance the flavor. Keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust the syrup amount accordingly.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Can I freeze the Caramel Pear Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying them.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).