Pear Ambrosia
A sweet and tangy pear ambrosia featuring fresh pears, oranges, pineapple, coconut, and cherries, perfect as a refreshing dessert or side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put pears and oranges, unpeeled, through a food chopper, ensuring all juice goes into the container.
- Cook the mixture until the pears are tender.
- Chop the cherries.
- Add all other ingredients, including cherries and coconut, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Pour the hot mixture into sterilized jars, seal, and water process for 15 minutes at simmering temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter taste, consider using ripe pears and fresh coconut. If you're short on time, you can use canned pears instead of fresh ones. Lemon juice not only adds flavor but also prevents browning of the pears. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar to 6 cups. Experiment with other fruits like peaches or berries for a twist on the classic Pear Ambrosia.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pear Ambrosia as a delightful dessert or a sweet topping for pancakes or yogurt. It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness. Consider serving it alongside Mincemeat Pie for an impressive dessert spread during the holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the mixture in freezer-safe jars for up to six months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pear Ambrosia contains roughly 297 calories, with 4g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pears and oranges are traditional, feel free to mix in other fruits like apples, peaches, or even berries. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the fruit's tenderness.
How do I know when the mixture is cooked properly?
The mixture is ready when the pears are tender and the flavors have melded together, which usually takes about 15 minutes of cooking after adding all ingredients. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Pear Ambrosia can be made ahead of time and stored in jars. Just ensure they are properly sealed and processed to prevent spoilage. It’s a great option for meal prep or holiday gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with guests.
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).