Spiced Pears, Peaches And Apples
A delightful spiced fruit preserve featuring pears, peaches, and apples infused with cinnamon and cloves, perfect for gifting or enjoying with breakfast and desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, water, vinegar, cinnamon, and whole cloves in a pot and heat to boiling.
- Drop enough fruit into the syrup to fill one jar and cook covered until tender.
- Pack the hot fruit into a sterilized jar and pour hot syrup, leaving 1/2 inch from the top.
- Seal the jar.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the syrup. If you don't have vinegar, lemon juice can be substituted for a similar tang. Use firm fruits for better texture; ripe peaches may become too soft. For a quicker version, try using canned fruit instead of fresh. Make sure to taste the syrup before adding fruit to adjust sweetness if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These spiced fruits make a delightful topping for yogurt or oatmeal. Serve them warm over vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. They also pair beautifully with sea scallops with cucumber and tarragon for a savory-sweet contrast. For a festive touch, use them in a stack fruit cake or as a side in a cheese platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate the spiced fruit and consume within a week for the best flavor. The syrup can also be used as a topping for pancakes or ice cream. Reheat the fruit gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the syrup thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Pears, Peaches And Apples contains roughly 437 calories, with 5g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g 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, peaches, and crab apples are traditional, you can experiment with other firm fruits like plums or quinces. Just ensure they are ripe but not overly soft to maintain texture during cooking.
How long will the spiced fruit last in jars?
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, the spiced fruit can last for up to a year. However, once opened, it's best to consume it within a week when refrigerated to enjoy optimal flavor and freshness.
Is it necessary to sterilize the jars?
Yes, sterilizing the jars is crucial for preventing spoilage and ensuring the safety of your preserved fruit. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a hot cycle in the dishwasher before use.
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).