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Homemade Cinnamon Vanilla Pear Preserves (Easy 5-Ingredient Recipe)

pear preserves - featured image

This easy 5-ingredient pear preserves recipe uses ripe pears, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla to create a chunky, flavorful preserve that captures the essence of fall. No pectin required, and it comes together in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds (about 6 medium) ripe but firm pears (Bosc, Bartlett, or Anjou), peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch chunks
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (Ceylon or cassia)
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prep the pears: Wash, peel, and core the pears. Cut into ½-inch chunks. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Maceration: Transfer pears to a heavy-bottomed pot. Add sugar and stir gently. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to draw out juices.
  3. First cook: Place pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add flavorings: Stir in cinnamon and vanilla extract. Continue simmering for 5 minutes.
  5. Test for doneness: Place a small plate in the freezer before cooking. Spoon a small amount of preserves onto the cold plate. Let sit for 30 seconds, then run your finger through. If it holds its shape, it’s done. If too runny, cook 2-3 more minutes and test again.
  6. Cool slightly: Remove pot from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
  7. Jar the preserves: Pour hot preserves into sterilized jar(s), leaving ¼ inch headspace. Wipe rim, seal with lid, and let cool to room temperature.
  8. Refrigerate: Transfer jar to refrigerator and let sit overnight for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Do not overcook the pears; preserves should have distinct fruit pieces. Use the cold plate test for doneness. Let preserves sit overnight in the refrigerator for best flavor. For long-term storage, process jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.

Nutrition

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