The first time I opened a jar of homemade spiced pear jam, I was transported to an autumn orchard, surrounded by the sweet scent of ripe Bartlett pears and the cozy warmth of pumpkin pie spices. You see, there’s something truly comforting about crafting your own preserves—not only does it make your kitchen smell divine, but it also transforms simple fruits into a jar of magic. This easy recipe for spiced pear jam doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it offers the perfect solution for those moments when you have a bushel of ripe pears just waiting for a purpose.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your breakfast spread or searching for a heartfelt gift idea, there’s no denying that this chunky, sweet preserve fits the bill. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll soon have a delightful stash of homemade jam that’s as delicious as it is versatile. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the delightful world of spiced pear jam—your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Spiced Pear Jam a Must-Try?
Unforgettable aroma: The moment you start cooking, the warmth of pumpkin pie spice fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that wraps you like a warm blanket.
Chunky goodness: This jam boasts a delightful chunky texture, reminiscent of rustic country preserves, making it perfect for spreading on warm toast or pancakes.
Easy to make: With minimal ingredients and simple instructions, you can whip up a batch of spiced pear jam even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
Versatile treat: Elevate your breakfast, adorn desserts, or surprise friends with a thoughtful gift; the possibilities with this jam are endless!
Perfect for canning: This recipe allows you to preserve the bountiful flavors of autumn, ensuring you can enjoy them all year round.
Healthy indulgence: Made with wholesome ingredients, this jam provides a sweet treat you can feel good about enjoying.
Spiced Pear Jam Ingredients
For the Jam
• Pears – 6 pounds of ripe Bartlett pears; essential for sweetness and texture, but other pear varieties or apples can be used for a twist.
• Sugar – 4 cups; provides the necessary sweetness and acts as a preservative, though you can experiment with less for a lighter version—just know it may change the consistency.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – 1 1/2 tablespoons; infuses depth and warmth into the jam; alternatively, use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves if pumpkin pie spice is not available.
• Pectin Powder – 1 box (1.75 oz); crucial for thickening the jam; follow recommended brands like Sure-Jell for best results—avoid unsuitable substitutions for canning.
How to Make Spiced Pear Jam
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Prepare the canner: Start by filling a boiling-water canner about two-thirds full with water and bring it to a wonderful boil. It’s essential to have this ready before you start cooking your jam.
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Chop the pears: Take your freshly ripened Bartlett pears, peel, core, and chop them into small pieces. Aim for uniform sizes, so they cook evenly and beautifully—this will take about 15-20 minutes.
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Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine your chopped pears, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and the pectin powder. Stir everything together until well incorporated for a vibrant mixture.
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Cook the jam: Bring this lovely mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears soften and the jam thickens. A potato masher can help achieve your desired consistency!
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Fill the jars: Ladle the hot spiced pear jam into sterilized ½ pint jars, ensuring to leave about ¼ inch of headspace at the top. Don’t forget to remove any air bubbles for that perfect seal!
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Seal and process jars: Adjust the two-piece caps on the jars and place them in the boiling-water canner. Process for 10 minutes, ensuring that the jars are completely submerged.
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Cool the jars: Carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel to cool. After 24 hours, check the seals to ensure your jam is preserved beautifully!
Optional: Add a touch of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Pear Jam
Room Temperature: Store sealed jars of spiced pear jam in a cool, dark place for up to one year, ensuring that they remain free from direct sunlight.
Fridge: Once opened, keep your spiced pear jam in the refrigerator. It will maintain its delicious flavor for about 2-3 weeks.
Freezer: If you need extra storage, freeze spiced pear jam in airtight containers for up to one year. Just remember to leave some headspace for expansion!
Reheating: To use frozen jam, thaw it overnight in the fridge or on the counter. Simply reheat gently on the stove if you prefer it warm and silky for your toast!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your spiced pear jam ahead of time makes canning a breeze, especially for busy home cooks! You can chop the pears and combine them with sugar and pumpkin pie spice up to 24 hours in advance, storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness (this also enhances the flavors). When you’re ready to make your jam, simply add the pectin and cook. To ensure the quality remains top-notch, remember to use hot jars and ladle the jam directly after cooking. Just like that, you’ll enjoy the deliciousness of homemade jam with minimal effort, perfect for weekend brunches or unexpected guests!
Spiced Pear Jam Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity with these simple tweaks and twists to make your spiced pear jam even more delightful!
- Apple Twist: Substitute half of the pears with apples for a tangy kick that brightens the flavor.
- Cinnamon Infusion: Swap pumpkin pie spice for 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon to highlight the warm, cozy notes in your jam.
- Cardamom Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom for a unique aromatic experience that will elevate your jam to a whole new level.
- Chili Heat: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for a surprising burst of heat that will delight adventurous palates.
- Vanilla Bean: Infuse your jam with a split vanilla bean while cooking for an elegant aroma that beautifully complements the pear flavor.
- Maple Sweetening: Replace half of the sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness that dances on your taste buds.
- Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans just before jarring for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
Embrace these variations and make your spiced pear jam your own; the possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Spiced Pear Jam?
Imagine the warm embrace of homemade spiced pear jam gracing your breakfast table, ready to elevate every bite.
- Toasted Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough perfectly balances the sweetness of the jam, enhancing every delicious spread.
- Fluffy Pancakes: Drizzling this jam over pancakes adds a joyful, sweet twist that’s hard to resist on your weekend mornings.
- Creamy Greek Yogurt: Stirring in a spoonful of spiced pear jam brings a fragrant burst of flavor, creating a delightful and nutritious breakfast.
- Cheese Board Accents: Pair the jam with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or brie for a sophisticated and delicious appetizer that will wow your guests.
- Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream topped with spiced pear jam transforms a simple dessert into an unforgettable treat.
- Savory Oatmeal Bowl: Mix a dollop of jam into savory oatmeal for a surprising yet irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors.
- Warm Biscotti: Enjoy the jam as a dip with your favorite homemade or store-bought biscotti, adding a lovely sweetness to your snack.
- Spiced Pear Martini: Elevate your evening with a cocktail featuring pear-infused spirits, bringing the comforting essence of the jam to your glass.
- Tart Apple Pie: Use this jam as a filling for a rustic apple pie to deepen flavors and add a lovely spiced note.
Expert Tips for Spiced Pear Jam
- Have Hot Jars Ready: Ensure that your jars are preheated to prevent cracking when filled with hot jam. This small step can save you from potential messes!
- Watch the Consistency: If your jam appears too liquidy, reprocess within 24 hours by adding more pectin while boiling—timeliness is key for achieving that perfect spiced pear jam texture.
- Don’t Skip the Sterilization: Properly sterilized jars and lids are essential for safe canning. This practice helps in avoiding spoilage and ensures your jam lasts longer.
- Experiment Cautiously: Feel free to swap out pear varieties or spices, but remember that these changes can affect both flavor and consistency—keep notes on what you try!
- Seal Safety: After cooling, inspect each jar to ensure the lid is sealed correctly before storing. Any unsealed jars should be used right away or reprocessed for safety.
Spiced Pear Jam Recipe FAQs
How do I know when my pears are ripe enough for making jam?
Absolutely! Look for pears that are slightly soft to the touch when gently pressed near the stem. Ripe Bartlett pears will have a sweet aroma and vibrant skin without dark spots. Ideally, use them within a few days of ripening for the best flavor in your spiced pear jam.
How should I store my spiced pear jam after making it?
Once sealed, you can store your spiced pear jam in a cool, dark place for up to one year. After opening a jar, place it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for about 2-3 weeks. Make sure the jars remain tightly sealed, away from sunlight and heat for maximum longevity.
Can I freeze spiced pear jam for longer storage?
Very! You can absolutely freeze your spiced pear jam. Transfer it into airtight containers, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to one year. To use, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or gently on the counter.
What should I do if my spiced pear jam is too runny?
If you find your jam is not thickening as expected, don’t worry! You can reprocess it within the first 24 hours by placing the jam back into a pot, adding another box of pectin, and boiling for a few minutes until it thickens. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid sticking. Once thickened, ladle it into sterilized jars and reseal!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for anyone with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that this spiced pear jam contains sugar and pectin, which may affect those who are diabetic or following a low-sugar diet. Always double-check the pectin brand for any allergens or additives, as some may contain gluten or preservatives. Also, if gifting this jam, let recipients know about the contents for allergy considerations.
Irresistible Spiced Pear Jam Recipe for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the canner by filling it about two-thirds full with water and bringing it to a boil.
- Chop the pears by peeling, coring, and chopping them into small pieces.
- In a large pot, combine chopped pears, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and pectin powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Ladle hot spiced pear jam into sterilized ½ pint jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace.
- Seal the jars with two-piece caps and process in the boiling-water canner for 10 minutes.
- Remove jars from the canner and let cool on a towel for 24 hours.