Print

Easy Spiced Pear Butter: Stovetop, Slow Cooker, or Instant Pot

A close-up of thick, glistening homemade pear butter piled high in a white bowl, catching the sunlight.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make rich, spiced pear butter using ripe pears. This straightforward recipe works well on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, and includes instructions for canning your homemade fruit preserves.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds ripe pears, cored and quartered (peeling is optional)
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Combine the quartered pears, water, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and cloves in a large pot or Dutch oven.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pears soften significantly, about 20 to 30 minutes.
  3. If using an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
  4. Carefully transfer the cooked pear mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to process until completely smooth. Work in batches if necessary.
  5. Return the smooth puree to the pot. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  6. Simmer the puree uncovered over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the mixture thickens to a spreadable butter consistency. This takes about 30 to 60 minutes depending on the method used.
  7. For canning: Ladle the hot pear butter into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and secure lids. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for half-pint jars (adjust time for altitude).
  8. Cool completely. Store canned butter in a cool, dark place or refrigerate/freeze if not canning.

Notes

  • For a lower sugar option, reduce the brown sugar to 1/2 cup and omit the maple syrup. The flavor will be less sweet.
  • You do not need to peel the pears if you have a powerful blender or immersion blender, as the skins break down during cooking.
  • This pear butter makes an excellent homemade gift when sealed in decorative jars.
  • Serve this fruit spread warm on toast, pancakes, or waffles.

Nutrition