When making pear butter you need to start by selecting the right varieties of pears. Bartlett pears work best for butter, as they’re naturally sweet, helping the butter to develop a rich, caramelized flavor. They’re also less fibrous than other varieties, creating a desirable silky texture for the butter. If you do want to vary the style of pears, or can’t find Bartlett pears in your local grocery store, take a look at our guide to 10 different types of pears for inspiration.
If you have any overripe pears in your kitchen, this butter recipe is also an ideal way to use them up before going to waste. Given they’ll have already softened with the ripening process, overripe pears are well-suited to being used for preserves, butters, and smoothies. And for more inspiration on how to cook with pears, we’ve selected 10 of our top sweet and savory recipes, featuring risotto with pears and poached pears.
Spices and Variations to Try
The recipe above covers the basics of how pear butter is made, but you can vary the ingredient list with spices and twists. Along with nutmeg, cinnamon is a warming and festive spice that pairs perfectly with the sweet flavors of the pear and is an ideal addition to the butter if you’re making it for a Christmas gift.
Or, for an even sweeter and more indulgent take on this recipe, try making a vanilla or caramel and pear butter. Simply add a split vanilla bean to the pear mixture while simmering or two tablespoons of brown sugar, for a caramel effect.
How to Store and Use Pear Butter
Pear butter must be stored in sterilized containers or jars. In the recipe above we’ve shared a simple boiling method to sterilize the containers, which then need to be stored in the refrigerator. If you notice mold, a distinct sour smell, or see any spoilage then make sure you discard that batch of pear butter.
This fruity butter can be simply spread onto a crunchy piece of toast or slathered over the top of a stack of pancakes for an alternative to maple syrup. It’s also delicious on a festive cheese or charcuterie board, if you’re enjoying this butter over the holidays.
