There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and salty that instantly elevates any treat. Our Salted Caramel Pear Butter recipe captures that perfect balance by blending ripe pears with rich caramel and a hint of sea salt. It’s a delightful twist on traditional fruit butters that adds a gourmet touch to your breakfast or snacks.
We love how this spread transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, velvety butter that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, swirling it into yogurt, or using it as a dip for desserts, this salted caramel pear butter brings warmth and indulgence to every bite. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples. Let’s dive into creating this irresistible spread that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
To craft our Salted Caramel Pear Butter, we carefully select ingredients that balance sweetness, spice, and that irresistible salty caramel touch. Each component plays a crucial role in building the deep, layered flavor of this rich spread.
Pears
We start with fresh, ripe pears, the foundation of our recipe. Their natural sweetness and soft texture transform beautifully when slow-cooked.
- 4 pounds of ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett work best)
- Peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces for easy cooking
Sugar and Sweeteners
The perfect Salted Caramel Pear Butter needs just the right amount of sweetness to complement the pears and caramel.
| Ingredient | Amount | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetness |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup | Adds depth, caramel notes |
| Maple syrup | 2 tablespoons | Natural sweetener, enhances caramel flavor |
Spices and Flavorings
We add warming spices to elevate the taste and aroma, creating a comforting, cozy spread.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (added at the end for vibrant flavor)
Salted Caramel Components
The star of our recipe is the salted caramel element, which brings a luscious balance of sweet and salt.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (for caramel)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (adjust to taste)
Equipment Needed
To create our Salted Caramel Pear Butter with the perfect balance of smooth texture and rich flavor, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s a detailed list of tools that will make the process efficient and enjoyable:
- Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven
Ideal for cooking down the pears and caramel mixture evenly. Choose one with a heavy bottom to prevent burning.
- Immersion Blender or Food Processor
To achieve that signature velvety texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a food processor for smooth pureeing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements guarantee consistent sweetness and spice balance.
- Candy Thermometer
Critical for monitoring the caramel’s temperature, ensuring the perfect salted caramel consistency without crystalizing or burning.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat-resistant Silicone Spatula
For stirring thoroughly and scraping the sides without damaging your cookware.
- Fine Mesh Strainer (optional)
To remove any pear skins or spice bits for an ultra-smooth butter.
- Sterilized Jars with Lids
For storing the finished butter. Wide-mouth jars make scooping easier.
Here’s a quick reference table summarizing the essential equipment:
| Equipment | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Large Saucepan/Dutch Oven | Cooking pears and caramel | Heavy-bottomed to avoid scorching |
| Immersion Blender/Food Processor | Pureeing mixture to smooth consistency | Immersion blender is great for direct blending |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Use precise measuring to balance flavors |
| Candy Thermometer | Monitor caramel temperature | Important to prevent burning or crystallization |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Stirring and scraping | Heat-resistant recommended |
| Fine Mesh Strainer (optional) | Strain unwanted bits | For extra silky pear butter texture |
| Sterilized Jars with Lids | Storing finished Salted Caramel Pear Butter | Wide mouth jars ease spooning and storage |
Having these tools ready will help us create a luscious, well-balanced Salted Caramel Pear Butter that spreads beautifully and delights the senses.
Preparation
Let’s begin our journey to create the rich and velvety Salted Caramel Pear Butter by carefully preparing the pears and crafting the luscious salted caramel. These steps are essential to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and smooth texture.
Preparing the Pears
Start by selecting ripe, juicy pears that will provide the natural sweetness and body needed for the butter. We recommend Bartlett or Bosc pears for their flavor and softness when cooked.
- Wash the pears thoroughly under cold running water.
- Peel the skin off using a vegetable peeler.
- Core each pear and chop them into roughly 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, place the chopped pears, sprinkle with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and a pinch of warming spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add a splash of pure vanilla extract to enhance the aromatic profile.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the pears are tender and beginning to break down, about 20-25 minutes.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pear Type | Bartlett or Bosc |
| Pear Prep | Wash, peel, core, chop (1-inch cubes) |
| Cooking Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Spices | Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves |
| Flavor Enhancer | Vanilla extract |
Making the Salted Caramel
The heart of our pear butter is the luscious salted caramel, which adds depth and a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Slowly add brown sugar and stir constantly until the mixture forms a smooth caramel, reaching about 230°F on a candy thermometer.
- Carefully stir in the heavy cream — the caramel will bubble vigorously, so proceed slowly.
- Continue stirring and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully combined and thickened.
- Remove from heat, then stir in the fine sea salt to taste for that signature salted caramel hit.
- Allow the caramel to cool slightly before integrating it with the cooked pears.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tbsp | Melted gently |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup | Packed |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup | Added slowly |
| Fine Sea Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Target Temp | 230°F (candy thermometer) | For perfect caramel consistency |
By following these preparation steps meticulously, we ensure every spoonful of our Salted Caramel Pear Butter delivers the perfect harmony of sweet, buttery caramel and tender, spiced pears.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to achieve a smooth, richly flavored Salted Caramel Pear Butter that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. Accuracy and patience during cooking ensure the ideal texture and depth of flavor.
Cooking the Pears
- Prepare Pears: Begin by placing the peeled, cored, and chopped pears into a large saucepan or Dutch oven.
- Add Sugars and Spices: Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves evenly over the pears. Stir gently to combine.
- Simmer Gently: Turn the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the pears cook for 20 to 25 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking.
- Check for Tenderness: The pears should be soft enough to mash easily with a spoon but not fully broken down, preserving some texture before blending.
Incorporating Salted Caramel
- Prepare Salted Caramel: In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until fully dissolved.
- Add Heavy Cream Carefully: Slowly add the heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent separation. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Monitor Temperature: Use the candy thermometer to maintain a temperature of 225°F to 230°F (107°C to 110°C) for perfect caramel consistency.
- Finish Caramel: Remove from heat and stir in fine sea salt and vanilla extract immediately. Allow the caramel to cool slightly to thicken before adding it to the pears.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons | Melted |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup | Packed |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup | Room temperature |
| Fine Sea Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Fresh, high quality |
Simmering and Thickening
- Combine Pears and Caramel: Pour the slightly cooled salted caramel into the saucepan with the cooked pears. Stir thoroughly to blend flavors.
- Simmer: Continue cooking on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning and encourage thickening.
- Blend to Butter: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a food processor. Blend until smooth and velvety.
- Final Thickness Test: Return the blended pear butter to the stove if needed. Cook on low heat, stirring often, until the desired thickness is achieved, about 10 more minutes.
- Cool and Store: Let the Salted Caramel Pear Butter cool to room temperature before transferring it to sterilized jars. Seal and refrigerate or process in a water bath for long-term storage.
Blending and Finishing
To achieve the perfect Salted Caramel Pear Butter, the final blending and finishing steps are crucial. These ensure a velvety smooth texture and balanced flavor that will elevate every bite.
Blending to a Smooth Butter
Once the pears have simmered tender and the salted caramel is ready, combine the two in the saucepan over low heat. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture in batches to a food processor.
- Blend on medium speed until the texture is ultra-smooth and creamy.
- Scrape down the sides frequently to incorporate all bits evenly.
- For a luxuriously smooth butter, pass the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer. This step removes any remaining pear pulp or spice fragments that detract from the silken mouthfeel.
“Achieving a perfectly smooth butter is the hallmark of homemade pear butter. It creates that irresistible spread that clings to toast or swirls beautifully in yogurt.”
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Immersion Blender | Smooths and purees the pear mixture | Easy to use directly in saucepan |
| Food Processor | Alternative for blending in batches | Cleaner finish if done with care |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Removes remaining solids | Optional but recommended |
Adjusting Flavor and Texture
After blending, it’s time for the finishing touches that define the Salted Caramel Pear Butter experience.
- Taste the butter to check the balance of sweetness, saltiness, and warm spice notes.
- Add a pinch more fine sea salt if the salted caramel flavor needs a deeper punch.
- Stir in a splash of vanilla extract for enhanced aroma and richness.
- Adjust the texture by simmering gently to thicken if the batter is too runny, or add a tablespoon of warm water to loosen if it’s too thick for spreading.
| Adjustment Step | Purpose | Amount/Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Fine Sea Salt | Boost salted caramel flavor | ¼ to ½ tsp, add gradually |
| Vanilla Extract | Enhance aromatic depth | ½ tsp, stir in after blending |
| Simmering | Thicken texture | 5-10 minutes over low heat |
| Adding Warm Water | Loosen spreadability | 1 tbsp increments as needed |
Stir the pear butter thoroughly after each addition to fully incorporate the flavors and test again. The end goal is a harmonious spread where sweet, salty, and spiced flavors meld seamlessly with a luscious, creamy texture.
Our Salted Caramel Pear Butter should delight the palate with each spoonful—silky and rich with the balanced warmth of caramel and spices.
Storing and Serving
Proper storing and serving techniques ensure our Salted Caramel Pear Butter stays fresh and delicious while maximizing its rich flavor and creamy texture.
Storing Tips
- Cool Completely: Allow the butter to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and spoilage.
- Airtight Containers: Transfer the pear butter into clean, sterilized jars or airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. The cool temperature preserves its velvety texture and complex flavors.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, freeze the butter in freezer-safe containers. It lasts up to 3 months frozen without losing quality.
- Labeling: Always label containers with the date of preparation to track freshness.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight jar/container | Up to 3 weeks | Keep lid sealed tightly |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge before use |
Serving Suggestions
Our Salted Caramel Pear Butter offers versatile ways to elevate everyday meals and snacks:
- Spread generously over warm toast, cinnamon rolls, or pancakes for a breakfast indulgence.
- Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt to add a rich caramel twist with fruity depth.
- Use as a dip for apple slices or pear wedges for a fast, flavorful snack.
- Pair with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or blue cheese on a charcuterie board.
- Incorporate into desserts as a topping for ice cream, pound cake, or cheesecake.
- Warm slightly to drizzle over roasted nuts or granola for added decadence.
“The luscious blend of salted caramel and pear creates a harmonious spread that transforms simple dishes into gourmet delights.”
To preserve the perfect texture, scoop with a clean utensil each time to avoid introducing moisture or contaminants. Serving at room temperature enhances the buttery softness, making it easier to spread and fully enjoy the complex flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Salted Caramel Pear Butter ahead of time is a great way to enjoy its rich flavors whenever you want. Here’s how we recommend storing and handling it to maintain that luscious texture and balanced sweetness.
Cooling and Storing
- Cool Completely: After blending and adjusting the flavors, allow the pear butter to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation and sogginess in storage containers.
- Use Clean, Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled butter into sterilized glass jars or airtight containers. This keeps the spread fresh and inhibits contamination.
- Label and Date: Always mark containers with the date of preparation for easy tracking.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 35°F to 40°F (2°C-4°C) | Up to 3 weeks | Perfect for quick use, keep sealed |
| Freezer | 0°F (-18°C) | Up to 6 months | Use freezer-safe containers, thaw overnight in fridge before use |
Freezing Tips
- Portion the pear butter into small containers or ice cube trays before freezing. This allows convenient thawing for small servings.
- When ready to use frozen pear butter, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator to preserve the velvety texture and flavor.
Serving From Storage
- Always scoop out the amount you need with a clean utensil to avoid introducing moisture or bacteria.
- Let refrigerated or thawed butter come to room temperature before serving. This enhances its spreadability and releases the full depth of the caramel and pear flavor.
“Proper make-ahead storage not only extends shelf life but also lets the flavors deepen, making every spoonful of our Salted Caramel Pear Butter an irresistible treat.”
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure our Salted Caramel Pear Butter maintains its creamy, rich consistency and perfectly balanced flavor for whenever we want to indulge.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Pear Butter is a delicious way to elevate everyday meals and snacks. Its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors make it a versatile addition to any kitchen. Whether we spread it on toast or swirl it into desserts, this butter adds a gourmet touch with minimal effort.
Making it at home lets us control the ingredients and customize the taste to our liking. With simple steps and common pantry items, we can enjoy this indulgent treat whenever we want. It’s a recipe worth keeping handy for cozy mornings and special occasions alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Salted Caramel Pear Butter?
Salted Caramel Pear Butter is a smooth, flavorful spread made by cooking ripe pears with sugars, spices, and a rich salted caramel sauce. It’s sweet, salty, and perfect for enhancing breakfasts or snacks.
What ingredients do I need to make this pear butter?
You need ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc), granulated and brown sugar, maple syrup, warming spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), vanilla extract, unsalted butter, heavy cream, and fine sea salt.
What equipment is essential for making Salted Caramel Pear Butter?
Key tools include a large saucepan or Dutch oven, an immersion blender or food processor for smooth texture, a candy thermometer to monitor caramel, and precise measuring tools.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for this spread?
Simmer pears until tender, blend pears and salted caramel until ultra-smooth, and optionally strain the mixture for an extra silky finish.
Can I adjust the flavor of the pear butter?
Yes, taste and customize sweetness, saltiness, and spice levels to suit your preferences before finalizing the butter.
How should I store Salted Caramel Pear Butter?
Cool completely, then store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 3 months for best freshness.
What are some serving ideas for this pear butter?
Spread it on toast, swirl into oatmeal, use as a dip, pair with cheeses, or add to desserts for a rich flavor boost.
Can I make Salted Caramel Pear Butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare in advance, cool fully, store in clean, labeled containers, and thaw portions as needed for convenience.
How do I ensure the butter stays fresh when serving?
Always use clean utensils to prevent contamination and serve the butter at room temperature for the best taste and spreadability.