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Old-Fashioned Pear Preserves

Close-up of a glass jar filled with glistening homemade Pear Preserves, showing chunks of pear in a rich amber syrup.
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Learn how to make chunky, old-fashioned pear preserves from scratch using a water bath canning method. This recipe is perfect for preserving a seasonal harvest and creates a delicious spread for biscuits, toast, or cheese boards.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds ripe pears (like Bartlett or Bosc), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prepare your canning equipment: Wash jars, lids, and bands in hot, soapy water. Rinse and keep jars hot (in a water bath canner or oven). Sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Keep lids in warm water until ready to use.
  2. Combine chopped pears, sugar, lemon juice, and water in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
  3. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pears are tender and the mixture has thickened, about 45-60 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  6. Test for set: Place a small amount of the preserve mixture on a chilled plate. If it gels as it cools, it is ready.
  7. Ladle the hot preserves into hot, sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
  8. Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth.
  9. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands fingertip tight.
  10. Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
  11. Remove jars from the canner and let them cool on a wire rack for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing.

Notes

  • For a smoother preserve, you can pulse the cooked mixture a few times with an immersion blender, but be careful not to over-process if you want a chunky texture.
  • Ensure your pears are ripe but not overly soft for the best texture.
  • Using lemon juice is crucial for acidity and helps ensure a safe set when canning.
  • Proper headspace is important for a good seal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/pear-preserves-recipe/