Description
Pear Honey is a luscious, naturally sweet fruit spread made from ripe pears and crushed pineapple, enhanced with a touch of lemon juice and warming spices. This homemade jam-like condiment is perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or stirring into yogurt, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional honey without using any actual honey.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped ripe pears (about 4–5 medium)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: In a large saucepan or pot, combine the chopped pears, crushed pineapple with juice, and lemon juice. This step initiates the cooking process by mixing the primary fruit ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Fruit Mixture: Cook over medium heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pears soften and release their juices. This softens the fruit and allows flavors to meld.
- Purée or Mash: Using an immersion blender or potato masher, gently purée or mash the mixture to your desired consistency, whether smooth or slightly chunky. This creates the base texture for the spread.
- Add Sugar and Spices: Stir in the granulated sugar along with optional ground cinnamon and nutmeg, which add warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a honey-like consistency. This process concentrates the flavors and thickens the spread.
- Cool and Store: Let the prepared pear honey cool slightly before transferring it to jars. For short-term use, refrigerate and consume within 2–3 weeks. For long-term storage, process the jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes following proper canning guidelines.
Notes
- Great served on biscuits, toast, pancakes, or stirred into yogurt.
- The crushed pineapple enhances the pear flavor and adds natural sweetness—no actual honey is used.
- For canning, process in sterilized jars for 10 minutes following proper canning guidelines to ensure safety.
