Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 lbs ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or food processor
- Canning jars and lids
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped pears, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pears are soft and the mixture is thick and bubbly, about 45-60 minutes.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender or food processor to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Return the pot to the heat and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture has thickened even more and is a deep golden brown color, about 30-45 minutes more.
5. To test if the pear butter is done, spoon a small amount onto a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If it holds its shape and doesn't run, it's ready.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let the pear butter cool for a few minutes.
7. Ladle the hot pear butter into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
8. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and place the lids on top, tightening the bands until just fingertip-tight.
9. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
10. Remove the jars from the water and let them cool on a towel-lined countertop for 24 hours.
11. Check the seals on the jars and store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes about 4-5 cups of pear butter
Nutritional information:
Per 2 tbsp serving:
Calories: 70
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 5mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 17g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any variety of ripe pears for this recipe.
- You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the lemon juice.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar and spices to your taste.
Variations:
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
- Add a few tablespoons of bourbon or rum for a boozy twist.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a potato masher or fork to break up any large chunks of pear while cooking.
- Be patient while cooking the pear butter - it takes time for the flavors to develop and the mixture to thicken.
- Use a splatter screen to prevent the hot pear butter from splashing onto your skin.
- Store the pear butter in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Storage instructions:
Store the pear butter in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the pear butter, simply spoon out the desired amount and microwave it for a few seconds until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the pear butter in a small dish with a spoon for spreading.
Garnishes:
Garnish the pear butter with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few thin slices of fresh pear.
Pairings:
Serve the pear butter with toast, biscuits, scones, or pancakes.
Suggested side dishes:
Pair the pear butter with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pear butter is too thick, add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar to thin it out.
- If the pear butter is too thin, continue cooking it until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Food safety advice:
- Always use clean, sterilized canning jars and lids to prevent contamination.
- Follow proper canning procedures to ensure the jars seal properly and the pear butter stays safe to eat.
Food history:
Pear butter is a traditional preserve that dates back to colonial times in America. It was a way to use up excess fruit and preserve it for the winter months.
Flavor profiles:
Pear butter is sweet and spicy, with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the pear butter as a spread on toast, biscuits, or scones, or use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
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