7 Things to Do With Pears
Pears are a fruit that many people don’t know what to do with. If you’re feeling lost when it comes to things to do with pears, this blog post is for you! We will explore 6 things that can be made using different varieties of pear including desserts, sauces and appetizers. There’s something in here for everyone!
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What Are the Different Types of Pears?
Pears are divided into two categories: European and Asian. While European pears are what we usually consider when we think of pear-shaped fruits, Asian pears are less sweet, crunchier, and often more apple shaped.

How Many Varieties of Pears Are There?
Pears, like apples, come in a wide range of forms (up to 3,000 have been recorded!). Anjou (the most readily available pear variety in the United States), Bosc Comice Barlett Concord Seckel Ferrel… The list goes on, and each one has its own distinct flavor and texture.
What Are the Best Pears for Cooking and Eating?
A few types are only edible after being cooked. Most varieties sold in stores are also great for snacking or eating raw in salads or other uncooked dishes, such as a salsa. When baked or cooked, very ripe pears will soften considerably, so choose them before
Barlett and Bosc are two favorites to use in recipes while both Comice and Anjou will work but do tend to fall apart and go a bit softer.
How Do You Cook with Pears?
Pears may be peeled or sliced with the peel on. However, before using, wash pears well to remove any remnants of the peel. Some peels are smoother than others, so consider whether the peel’s texture will detract from the dish you’re preparing.

Pears may be cooked in a variety of ways, including poached, sautéed, and baked. They can also be simmered and pureed to sweeten foods like parsnip or potato puree.
Using Up Pears in Baking Recipes
Baking is fantastic with a lot of pears. Take, for example, Anjou pears – they’re delicious raw but crisp when cooked and cook nicely. Grate them into muffin recipes or cut them into cubes and add them to a breakfast crisp.
Pears are wonderful in many different ways, and one of them is as a delicious upside-down cake. They’re also fantastic in salads or other dishes where you slice pear and cheese on crostini.
Preserving Pears for Year-Long Enjoyment
While traditional canning is still an option, if you are short of time, there are other options. Here are some ways you can preserve your leftover pears:
- Freeze them – Chop them, wrap them, freeze them, and use them later.
- Breakfast Sauce – Stew the pears down with some coconut oil, a little sugar, and whatever spices you like. You may make a delicious sauce and freeze it for later use. When your family comes over to enjoy pancakes on Sunday morning, you’ll be able to up the ante with some homemade preserve.
- Ferment – While this doesn’t sound like one I’d try, it is popular in places such as Russia where a whole pear can be added to fermenting jars with things like sauerkraut.
Easy Pear Butter Recipe
- 10 medium pears, cored and cubed
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp local happy honey
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- a few cardamon pods
- pinch of salt
- dash of vanilla
Sauté all the ingredients together on medium heat until the pears are caramelized and soft (you may half the recipe if you want some chunky pear snacks).
Blend the ingredients together until they are smooth and creamy, as desired.
Spread on bread, pancakes, sweet potato toast, or use it as a dip for other fruits or cheeses.
Things to Do With Pears
Check out more recipes made with pears including sauces, appetizers and desserts
Poached Pears with Honey Mascarpone Cream
Tasty and simple dessert made with Anjou pears
Roasted Pear and Blue Cheese Bruschetta
Check out this fresh take on an Italian classic and make Roast Pear and Blue Cheese Bruschetta as an appetizer for any occasion
Cranberry Pear Sauce with Rosemary and Ginger
Balance the tartiness of cranberry with the sweetness of pear for a twist on the classic cranberry sauce
Instant Pot Cinnamon Pear Applesauce
Made this simple homemade applesauce featuring pears and cinnamon for an upgrade to the usual accompaniment
Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Bacon and Walnuts
Make your pears the star with this roasted pear salad dish stuffed with blue cheese, bacon and walnuts
Savory Brie and Pear Puff Pastry
A delicious and simple recipe using puff pastry that can be sweet or savoury and combines brie with pears