Pear Butter Recipe

There’s something downright magical about watching a mountain of pears transform into the silkiest, most fragrant spread. This pear butter recipe came to me one crisp October morning, years ago, when my neighbor dropped off a laundry basket full of Bartletts from her family orchard. I didn’t have the heart to waste a single one—and goodness, am I glad I didn’t.

I simmered them low and slow with vanilla bean, orange peel, and just enough brown sugar to coax out their natural sweetness. By evening, the kitchen smelled like warm cider and baked pie. That batch became my first official “gift jar” season. To this day, folks ask me, “Are you making that pear butter recipe again this year?” It’s a comfort staple in my pantry—and I promise, it’ll become one in yours too.

Let’s make memories one bite at a time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pear butter recipe is fall in a jar—cozy, warm, and richly spiced without being heavy-handed. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with a big box of pears, this is the answer. It’s easy enough for beginners, but layered with flavor to impress even seasoned canners.

With just 10 minutes of prep and a slow cooker doing the rest, this is one of those hands-off treasures. You’ll love how the flavors deepen hour by hour into something thick, spreadable, and spoon-licking good.

It’s also wildly versatile: serve it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or dollop it on top of baked brie. This pear butter recipe doubles beautifully as a thoughtful homemade gift—just ladle into jars and tie on a ribbon.

Ready in about 10 hours total, it’s the kind of slow project that feels downright therapeutic on a rainy weekend. Trust me—once you make this pear butter recipe, you’ll be waiting for pear season every year.

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Ingredient Overview

This pear butter recipe keeps things simple, letting the fruit shine with just a few warm, aromatic additions. The end result is thick, silky, and lightly spiced—with no grit and no fuss.

• Pears: The star of the show! Choose ripe, fragrant pears like Bartlett or Bosc. The riper, the better—they’ll blend smoother and taste sweeter.

• Water: A small amount keeps things from sticking as the pears start to cook down.

• Vanilla Bean: Adds deep warmth and depth; don’t skip it if you can find one.

• Brown Sugar: Just a spoon or two enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering.

• Orange Juice & Peel: Brightens and balances the richness—fresh-squeezed works best.

• Salt: A pinch sharpens all the flavors and keeps things from falling flat.

Styling tip: When gifting, try tying twine and a cinnamon stick around the jar lid—it’s a charming touch for this homemade pear butter recipe.

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Pears

Start with about 2½ pounds of ripe, fragrant pears. Peel, core, and chop them into even chunks. For the smoothest pear butter recipe, soft and juicy pears—like Bartlett or Anjou—are best.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

Place the chopped pears into your slow cooker. Add ⅓ cup water, ½ a split vanilla bean (scraped), 1–2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice, a couple strips of orange peel, and just a pinch of salt. This flavor combo gives your pear butter recipe its cozy, signature character.

Step 3: Start the Slow Cook

Cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours. Stir occasionally to help the pears break down evenly. Your house will begin to smell like the holidays. Tip: Crack the lid slightly in the last hour for some extra thickening.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once the pears are completely soft, remove the orange peel and vanilla bean. Use an immersion blender right in the pot—or carefully transfer to a food processor—for a silky purée. This step is key to a velvety pear butter recipe.

Step 5: Slow Cook Again

Set the crock pot to LOW and cook another 6–8 hours uncovered, stirring occasionally. You’ll know your pear butter recipe is ready when a spoonful holds its shape and no liquid pools around it.

Step 6: Jar It Up

Ladle your finished pear butter recipe into sterilized canning jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Run a clean knife through to release air bubbles and wipe the rims clean.

Step 7: Water Bath Process

Seal jars with sterilized lids and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. This makes the pear butter recipe shelf-stable for up to a year. Let jars cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy!

Once sealed, store your jars in a cool, dark place. Opened jars will keep for about 3 weeks in the fridge. This pear butter recipe is delicious on toast, pancakes, yogurt—or just by the spoonful!

Pro Tips

If you want the silkiest texture, peel your pears thoroughly. Some skins stay gritty even after hours of cooking, and smoothness is key in a great pear butter recipe.

Don’t skip the vanilla bean. That little pod packs deep, complex flavor that makes this pear butter recipe taste like it came straight from a country kitchen cookbook.

Always use ripe, juicy pears—slightly overripe is fine! Firmer pears take longer to break down and can alter the consistency of your pear butter recipe.

Want it extra thick? Leave the lid cracked slightly during the second slow-cooking stage. Evaporation is your best friend in this pear butter recipe process.

For even flavor, give it an occasional stir in the last few hours. The sugars caramelize gently on the bottom and mix back into the pear butter recipe for added depth.

Want more cozy slow cooker inspiration? You’ll love my Crockpot Recipes Chicken Pot Pie—another cold-weather favorite with comforting aromas.

Variations

Looking for a spiced twist? Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a holiday spin on this pear butter recipe.

Prefer a no-sugar version? Skip the brown sugar entirely if your pears are sweet. This pear butter recipe is naturally flavorful and doesn’t rely on added sugar.

Make it boozy: Stir in a splash of brandy or bourbon during the final 30 minutes for a grown-up gift jar that takes this pear butter recipe over the top.

No vanilla bean? Use 1–2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract instead—add it after blending so it doesn’t fade during cooking.

Try swapping orange for lemon if you want a slightly tangier finish. It’s a subtle way to change the balance in your pear butter recipe.

Pair it with other seasonal favorites like Fall Recipes Creamy Butternut Gnocchi for a cozy fall meal plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Serving Suggestions

This pear butter recipe shines brightest when you serve it warm on buttered toast or spooned over pancakes with a pat of melting cream. For a savory twist, try it on a cheese board alongside sharp cheddar or soft brie. It’s also a dream stirred into plain yogurt or spread inside a grilled cheese sandwich with gruyère—yes, really.

For weekend brunches, I love pairing this pear butter recipe with Pumpkin French Toast Casserole. The cinnamon, vanilla, and citrus notes complement each other like a cozy fall hug.

Don’t forget the little extras—wrap your jars with twine and a handwritten label to turn your pear butter recipe into heartfelt holiday or hostess gifts. Nothing says “I’m glad you’re in my life” quite like homemade fruit preserves.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply comforting about a slow-cooked, handmade preserve—especially one as velvety and aromatic as this pear butter recipe. It’s more than just a spread; it’s a little jar of warmth, made with love and perfect for gifting or enjoying on a quiet morning.

You’ve taken humble pears and transformed them into something extraordinary. Whether you’re canning for the winter or savoring spoonfuls straight from the jar, this pear butter recipe makes the most of nature’s fall bounty.

And when you’re ready to plan a cozy afternoon around fall flavors, add a snack like these Fall Snack Mixes to keep things festive and easy.

Love this pear butter recipe? I’d be thrilled if you try it and share your take! Leave a comment below and tell me how yours turned out. Tag your jars or toast photos on social media—I adore seeing how this recipe lives in your kitchens.

Want more homemade recipes, tips, and seasonal treats? Follow along on Pinterest for fresh ideas that’ll brighten your cooking days.

From my kitchen to yours — happy cooking, friends!