pear pie filling recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best pear pie filling recipe

I’ve been making pear pie filling for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. My kids love helping me peel and chop the pears, and they’re always excited to taste the finished product.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion – it’s easy to make and can be served as a side dish or used as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. Plus, it’s incredibly healthy, with pears being a good source of fiber and antioxidants.

The key to making great pear pie filling is using ripe but firm pears and cooking them slowly over low heat to bring out their natural sweetness. I like to use a combination of sweet and tart pears for the best flavor.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can use it in pies, tarts, and even as a topping for oatmeal or pancakes. And because it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, you can feel good about serving it to your family or at a potluck dinner.

I’ve also found that this recipe makes great gifts – just fill some jars with the pie filling and tie them up with a ribbon for a thoughtful present. My friends and family always love getting jars of homemade pear pie filling as a treat.

Classic Pear Pie Filling

Classic Pear Pie Filling

4.8 from 795 votes

This homemade pear pie filling features ripe pears cooked in a buttery, spiced syrup. It is perfect for filling a double-crust pie or using as a topping for desserts.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced ripe pears (about 6 medium pears)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced pears, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2Toss gently until the pears are evenly coated.
3Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the pears to release their juices.
4Transfer the pear mixture to a medium saucepan and place over medium heat.
5Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract.
6Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil, about 5 to 7 minutes.
7Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer the filling for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8The filling should thicken and the pears become tender but not mushy; the liquid will coat the back of a spoon.
9Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter pieces until melted and fully incorporated.
10Let the filling cool completely to room temperature before using it in a pie or storing it.
11The filling will thicken further as it cools.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Pie dish (if assembling pie)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 8mg🧂Sodium: 150mg🌾Total Carbs: 62g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 45g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For best results, use pears that are ripe but still firm, such as Bosc or Bartlett. This filling can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. If the filling seems too thin after cooling, simmer it for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to reduce.

Watch Video Of How Classic Pear Pie Filling Works

To store leftover pear pie, cover it loosely with foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze the baked pie for up to three months.

When you are ready to serve, reheat slices in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes to refresh the crust and warm the filling. For serving, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is always a good idea.

This pie also goes well with a drizzle of caramel sauce. It works for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a Sunday dinner.

I make it every year for our family get togethers, and it never lasts long.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pear Pie Filling

What type of pears are best for making pear pie filling?

For making pear pie filling, you’ll want to use ripe but firm pears that are sweet but not too sweet.

How long does pear pie filling take to make?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I use other types of fruit in place of pears?

No, this recipe is specifically designed for using pears.

Can I store pear pie filling in an air-tight container?

Yes, you can store pear pie filling in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Is there anything else I can serve alongside pear pie filling?

You can serve whipped cream or vanilla ice cream alongside your pear pie filling if you like.

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