If you’re looking to capture the luscious flavor of fresh pears and enhance them with warm, aromatic spices, then this canned spiced pears recipe is perfect for you. Canning pears with spices not only preserves their natural sweetness but also infuses them with delightful notes of cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, making them an ideal treat all year round.
Whether you enjoy them as a topping for your morning oatmeal, a sweet addition to desserts, or simply by the spoonful, these canned spiced pears bring comfort and elegance to any dish.
This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment, making it accessible even for beginners in home canning. Plus, the process itself is quite rewarding!
Imagine opening a jar in the middle of winter and tasting the essence of autumn captured inside. If you love experimenting with preserving fruits or want to add a homemade touch to your pantry, this recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This canned spiced pears recipe is a wonderful way to extend the shelf life of fresh pears while turning them into a gourmet delight. Here’s why it stands out:
- Simple and versatile: Uses pantry staples and fresh pears, suitable for a variety of uses.
- Bold, warming flavors: Cinnamon, cloves, and star anise give the pears a comforting and festive taste.
- Perfect for gifting: Beautiful jars of spiced pears make lovely homemade gifts.
- Long-lasting: Properly canned, these pears can last for up to a year in your pantry.
- Preserves natural sweetness: Minimal added sugar lets the pear’s natural flavor shine through.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs fresh pears (Bartlett or Bosc work best), peeled, cored, and halved or sliced
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick per jar
- 4 whole cloves per jar
- 2 star anise pods per jar
- Juice of 1 lemon (to prevent browning)
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, to enhance flavor)
Equipment
- Large pot or canner for boiling jars
- Quart-sized Mason jars with lids and bands (about 4-5 jars)
- Jar lifter for safe handling of hot jars
- Large mixing bowl for preparing pears
- Sharp paring knife and peeler
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Funnel for filling jars neatly
- Clean kitchen towels
- Timer or clock
Instructions
- Prepare the pears: Wash the pears thoroughly. Peel, core, and cut them into halves or slices, depending on your preference. Place the cut pears into a large bowl and immediately toss with the lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Make the spiced syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the water, sugar, ground ginger (if using), and nutmeg (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if you like.
- Pack the jars: Sterilize your Mason jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Using a jar lifter, remove and place them on a clean towel. Place 1 cinnamon stick, 4 whole cloves, and 2 star anise pods into each jar.
- Add pears to the jars: Carefully pack the prepared pears into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Pour the hot spiced syrup over the pears, again leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars or using a non-metallic utensil.
- Seal the jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean damp cloth to ensure a good seal. Place the sterilized lids on top and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.
- Process the jars: Place the jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they are covered by at least 1-2 inches of water. Boil for 25 minutes (adjust time if you are at high altitude). Carefully remove jars and place on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
- Check the seals: After cooling, test the lids by pressing the center. If sealed, the lid should not flex up and down. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate any jars that did not seal properly and consume within a week.
Tips & Variations
For a twist, try adding a splash of brandy or rum to the syrup before canning to deepen the flavor profile.
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by half or substitute with honey or maple syrup.
Experiment with spices like cardamom pods or allspice berries for a unique aromatic touch.
Make sure to use firm pears to avoid them turning mushy during the canning process.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per 1/2 cup serving |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Carbohydrates | 24g |
Sugar | 22g |
Fiber | 2g |
Protein | 0.3g |
Fat | 0g |
Vitamin C | 4mg (7% DV) |
Calcium | 12mg (1% DV) |
Serving Suggestions
Canned spiced pears are incredibly versatile in your kitchen. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Top your morning yogurt or oatmeal with spiced pears for a sweet and warming flavor boost.
- Serve warm as a dessert topping over ice cream, pancakes, or waffles.
- Use them in baked goods like tarts, cakes, or muffins for an added layer of spice and moisture.
- Mix with fresh greens and nuts to create a unique salad with a sweet twist.
- Pair with cheese plates featuring creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated appetizer.
Conclusion
Preserving seasonal fruit like pears through canning is a wonderful way to enjoy their flavors year-round, and this canned spiced pears recipe is a perfect example. The harmonious blend of warm spices elevates the natural sweetness of the pears, making them a delightful addition to a variety of meals and snacks.
Whether you’re a canning novice or an experienced home preserver, this recipe offers an easy, satisfying project with delicious results. Plus, the joy of opening a jar filled with homemade spiced pears is truly special.
Don’t forget to explore more recipes on our blog to expand your culinary repertoire. If you enjoyed this, you might love our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, or try the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious for a flavorful meal.
For quick and tasty snacks, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.
📖 Recipe Card: Canned Spiced Pears
Description: Sweet pears are preserved in a warm spiced syrup, perfect for enjoying year-round. This easy recipe combines cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla for a fragrant treat.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 6 jars (16 oz each)
Ingredients
- 6 lbs ripe pears, peeled, cored, and halved
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 1 vanilla bean, split
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Sterilize jars and lids by boiling them in water.
- Combine water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, vanilla bean, nutmeg, and ginger in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Add lemon juice and simmer syrup for 5 minutes.
- Place pear halves into jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Pour hot spiced syrup over pears, covering completely.
- Remove air bubbles and wipe jar rims clean.
- Seal jars with lids and process in boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
- Remove jars and let cool completely before storing.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0.1g | Carbs: 30g
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