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Derived from centuries-old French culinary tradition, pear jelly is a treasured staple that has been delighting taste buds for generations. Traditionally made during the harvest season when pears are at their ripest, this jelly is a testament to the art of preserving the vibrant flavors of summer and fall for enjoyment year-round. Our Sweet & Fragrant Homemade Pear Jelly recipe offers a modern twist on this classic spread, promising a delightful culinary experience that is simple enough for any home cook to master.

This homemade version of pear jelly is special for its infusion of fragrant spices, lending a warm and comforting aroma that is simply irresistible. The sweetness of the ripe pears is enhanced with a hint of lemon, making for a beautifully balanced flavor profile. Every spoonful brings the fresh, sweet taste of pears, complemented by a gentle tang and a subtle, spicy undertone that lingers on the palate. You can see all of our pear recipes with this link.

Savor this delightful pear jelly spread over a slice of toasted sourdough bread for breakfast, or pair it with a sharp cheddar for an afternoon snack. It also makes an excellent accompaniment for a charcuterie board. However you choose to enjoy it, this Sweet & Fragrant Homemade Pear Jelly is sure to add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to your meals.

Main Ingredients

• 4 pounds ripe pears (peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces)
• 4 cups white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup water
• 1 packet pectin (about 1.75 ounces)

Seasonings and Spices

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice

Optional Toppings

• As needed toasted sourdough bread (for serving)
• As needed sharp cheddar cheese (for serving)
• As needed charcuterie items (such as cured meats, cheeses, and olives, for serving)

Preparation

1. Wash the ripe pears under cold water, then peel and core them. Cut the pears into small chunks.
   Tip: Make sure to remove any brown spots on the pears.
2. In a large pot, combine the pear chunks, 1 cup of water, and fresh lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
   Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pears from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the pear mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pears are soft and easily mashed.
   Tip: Use a potato masher to help break down the pears if necessary.
4. Blend the pear mixture using a hand blender until it becomes a smooth puree.
   Tip: If you don’t have a hand blender, you can also use a regular blender. Just make sure to let the mixture cool down a bit before blending.

Cooking Instructions

1. Return the pear puree to the pot and add the white granulated sugar, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
   Tip: Make sure the heat is set to low to prevent the sugar from burning.
2. Add the pectin to the pot and stir until it’s well incorporated. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil.
   Tip: Keep stirring to prevent the pectin from forming lumps.
3. Once boiling, add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to the pot. Continue to boil the mixture for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens to a jelly consistency.
   Tip: To test the jelly’s consistency, place a small amount on a cold plate and see if it gels up after a minute.
4. After the jelly has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Finishing Touches

1. Ladle the warm jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly.
   Tip: If you plan on preserving the jelly for a longer period, make sure to process the jars in a water bath canner.
2. Once the jelly is fully cooled, it’s ready to be enjoyed. Spread it over a slice of toasted sourdough bread, pair it with a sharp cheddar for a snack, or include it in your charcuterie board.
   Tip: The jelly will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first.