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Pear Preserves Recipe

Pear Preserves Recipe

This Pear Preserves Recipe is a simple and delightful homemade fruit spread that captures the natural sweetness and aroma of ripe pears. Perfect for toast, yogurt, desserts, or as a glaze, this preserve balances sweetness and texture while offering versatile uses and a long shelf life when properly canned.

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • Fresh Pears: Choose ripe but firm pears for a perfect texture and natural sweetness (about 4 pounds)
  • Granulated Sugar: 2 to 3 cups, adjusted to taste and pear sweetness
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Pectin (optional): 1 package (about 1.75 ounces) or as per package instructions
  • Water: 1/2 cup to help cook and soften the pears gently

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pears: Wash pears thoroughly. Peel, core, and cut them into evenly sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking and perfect texture in your preserves.
  2. Cook Pears with Sugar and Lemon: Place pear chunks in a large pot. Add granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and water. Stir gently to combine and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to draw out the juices before heating.
  3. Bring to a Boil and Simmer: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pears soften and mixture thickens, about 30 to 45 minutes.
  4. Add Pectin (If Using): If a firmer set is desired, stir in pectin according to package instructions. Continue cooking for a few more minutes to activate the gel.
  5. Test and Jar the Preserves: Perform a gel test by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, the preserves are ready. Ladle hot preserves into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Notes

  • Choose Bartlett or Anjou pear varieties for best flavor and texture.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for optimal acidity and preservation.
  • Maintain clean and sterilized equipment to prevent spoilage.
  • Simmer slowly to deepen flavors and preserve pear texture.
  • Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place to maintain quality.
  • After opening, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks.
  • Preserves can be frozen in freezer-safe containers with headspace for longer storage.
  • Reheat gently before use, avoiding boiling to preserve flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: pear preserves, homemade pear jam, fruit spread, pear jam recipe, homemade preserves