Pear Vanilla Butter: A Sweet, Spiced Spread for Every Occasion

Indulge in the delicate sweetness of homemade Pear Vanilla Butter—a luscious, velvety spread that’s perfect on toast, pancakes, or even as a dessert topping! This recipe combines ripe pears with warm vanilla and a hint of cinnamon for a comforting, aromatic treat. Inspired by traditional fruit butters, this version is lighter than jam but just as flavorful, making it a must-try for preserving autumn’s bounty.

Unlike store-bought versions, this Pear Vanilla Butter is free from artificial additives and lets you control the sweetness. Whether you’re gifting it in jars or enjoying it straight from the spoon, its rich, caramel-like flavor will win you over. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients!

Why This Pear Vanilla Butter Recipe Works

This recipe shines because it highlights the natural sweetness of pears without overpowering them. The vanilla bean (or extract) adds a warm, floral depth, while a touch of cinnamon balances the fruit’s brightness. Simmering the pears slowly ensures a silky-smooth texture, and a splash of lemon juice keeps the flavor vibrant.

It’s also incredibly versatile! Use it as a glaze for meats, swirl it into yogurt, or layer it in a cake. The gentle cooking process means even beginners can achieve perfect results.

What’s In Pear Vanilla Butter?

This recipe relies on simple, high-quality ingredients:

• Pears: Choose ripe but firm varieties like Bartlett or Anjou for the best texture and sweetness.
• Vanilla: A vanilla bean (split and scraped) or pure extract infuses the butter with aromatic warmth.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor and prevents browning.
• Cinnamon: A pinch enhances the pears’ natural spice notes.
• Sugar: Adjust to taste—less for a tart spread, more for a dessert-like consistency.

How To Make Pear Vanilla Butter

This recipe requires minimal hands-on time but rewards patience as the pears slowly cook down into a thick, glossy butter. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prep the Pears

1. Peel, core, and dice the pears into 1-inch chunks (about 4 cups).
2. Toss with lemon juice to prevent oxidation.

Step 2: Cook the Pears

1. In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine pears, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla bean (or extract).
2. Add ¼ cup water and simmer over medium-low heat for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears are very soft.

Step 3: Blend and Reduce

1. Remove the vanilla bean (if using) and purée the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth.
2. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently, for another 20–30 minutes until thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon).

Step 4: Jar and Store

1. Let cool slightly, then transfer to sterilized jars. Seal and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Sides for Pear Vanilla Butter

Pair this butter with:

• Warm Baguette: A crusty loaf lets the butter’s texture shine.
• Brie Cheese: The creamy saltiness contrasts beautifully with the sweet pears.
• Oatmeal: Swirl in a spoonful for a gourmet breakfast.
• Pork Chops: Use as a glaze for a sweet-savory twist.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I Use Frozen Pears?

Yes! Thaw frozen pears first and drain excess liquid before cooking.

How Do I Know When It’s Done?

The butter is ready when a spoon dragged through it leaves a clean path on the pot’s bottom.

Can I Skip the Sugar?

Absolutely—just note that the butter will be tarter and less spreadable.

Other Recipes To Try

• Apple Cardamom Butter: A fragrant twist on classic apple butter.
• Homemade Lemon Curd Recipe: Tangy British lemon spread.
• Plum Rosemary Jam: Herb-infused and tangy-sweet.
• Homemade Apple Butter: Thick, spiced, and perfect for fall baking or gifting.
• Pumpkin Maple Butter: Fall in a jar, with warm spices.
• Blueberry Lime Butter: Unusual and vibrant for toast.

Pear Vanilla Butter

Silky, spiced, and subtly sweet, this Pear Vanilla Butter is a gourmet spread you’ll want to put on everything! Made with just 5 ingredients, it’s a foolproof way to preserve seasonal fruit.

No ratings yet

Print Pin Save Saved! Rate

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Spread

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 2 cups

Calories: 25kcal

Equipment

Medium Saucepan

Immersion Blender

Ingredients

• 2 lbs about 4 cups ripe pears, peeled and diced
• ½ cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
• 1 vanilla bean split and scraped or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

• Combine pears, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a pot with ¼ cup water.
• Simmer over medium-low heat for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pears are soft.
• Remove vanilla bean (if using) and blend until smooth.
• Cook for another 20–30 minutes on low heat until thickened.
• Cool and store in jars. Refrigerate or freeze.

Notes

• Texture Tip: For extra smoothness, strain through a fine-mesh sieve before the final cook.
• Vanilla Hack: Use the spent vanilla bean pod to make vanilla sugar.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for complexity.
• Sugar Swap: Substitute honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Canning: Process jars in a water bath for 10 minutes to shelf-stabilize.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Tbsp | Calories: 25kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Potassium: 20mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 5g

Enjoy your homemade Pear Vanilla Butter! Tag us on social media if you try it—we’d love to see your creations!