Spiced Pear Butter
Spiced pear butter offers a luscious, spiced spread with warm cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, perfect for breakfast, toast, or gifting during the fall season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pears with wine, vinegar, cinnamon sticks, and cloves over medium heat until pears are soft, about 10 minutes.
- Put the cooked pears through a food mill and return the puree to a heavy pot.
- Add sugar, lemon juice, and allspice to the pear puree and stir well.
- Cook over low heat for 1 hour or until thickened, watching for scorching.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside the allspice. If you prefer a sweeter butter, increase the sugar gradually, tasting as you go. Ensure the pears are ripe for the best texture. If you don't have a food mill, a blender can work, but be cautious with hot mixtures. Substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different tang.
Serving Suggestions
Spiced pear butter is delightful on toast or pancakes and pairs beautifully with cheeses for a savory-sweet contrast. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter or as a spread on sandwiches. It also complements desserts like vanilla ice cream or can be used in recipes like Salad Dressing For Tossed Salad for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store the spiced pear butter in sterilized jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 2-3 weeks. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid hot spots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Pear Butter contains roughly 461 calories, with 4g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 types of pears for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other varieties of pears, such as Anjou or Comice. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor and texture. The sweetness and juiciness of the pears will impact the final flavor of the butter, so feel free to experiment.
How do I know when the pear butter is thick enough?
The pear butter is ready when it holds a spoonful without running off easily. To test, place a small amount on a plate and let it cool for a moment; run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it's thick enough. Keep an eye on it to prevent scorching as it cooks.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like agave syrup or a sugar substitute suitable for canning. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, so adjust to your taste. Explore options for American recipes that cater to sugar-free needs for more ideas.
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).