Canned Pear Pie Filling Recipe: Simple And Delicious!

Looking for a delicious and simple dessert recipe? Well, you’ve come to the right place because today we’re going to talk about a mouthwatering canned pear pie filling recipe. If you’ve been wondering how to make a delectable pie filling using canned pears, look no further. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step by step, so you can wow your family and friends with a homemade pear pie that’s bursting with flavor. And the best part? You don’t need any special culinary skills to master this delightful recipe! So grab your apron and let’s get started.

Canned Pear Pie Filling Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to creating delicious and convenient desserts, having a jar of homemade canned pear pie filling on hand can be a game-changer. The sweet and juicy flavor of pears combined with warm spices and a flaky pie crust is a timeless combination that is sure to delight your taste buds. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step process of creating your own canned pear pie filling, allowing you to enjoy this classic dessert any time of the year. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

The Beauty of Canning

Canning is a popular preservation method that allows you to store fruits in a jar for an extended period. Not only does it help to preserve the flavors and nutrients of the produce, but it also ensures that you have access to your favorite fruits even when they’re out of season. Canned pear pie filling is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various desserts, such as pies, tarts, crumbles, and even as a topping for pancakes or ice cream.

Benefits of Homemade Canned Pear Pie Filling

While commercially available canned pie fillings are convenient, nothing beats the taste and quality of homemade versions. Here are some benefits of making your own canned pear pie filling:

1. Control Over Ingredients: By making your own filling, you have complete control over the quality and freshness of the ingredients used. You can choose ripe and flavorful pears and adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your taste preferences.

2. Customizable: Homemade pie fillings allow you to experiment with different flavors and spices. You can add a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of vanilla to elevate the flavors and make it truly your own.

3. No Preservatives: Most commercially canned pie fillings contain preservatives to extend their shelf life. When you make your own at home, you can skip the preservatives and enjoy a healthier, preservative-free dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the canning process, gather the following ingredients to prepare your canned pear pie filling:

• 6 to 8 ripe pears
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making the perfect canned pear pie filling:

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

1. Peel and Core: Peel the pears using a vegetable peeler, ensuring to remove the skin along with any blemishes. Core the pears using a paring knife or a dedicated coring tool. Once cored, cut the pears into small bite-sized pieces or slices, as per your preference.

2. Lemon Juice Bath: As you cut the pears, place them in a large bowl filled with water and add the lemon juice. This will prevent the pears from browning due to oxidation.

Step 2: Cook the Pear Filling

1. Drain and Rinse: After the pears have soaked in the lemon juice bath for about 10 minutes, drain the water and rinse the pears under cold running water. This helps to remove any excess lemon juice and prevent an overpowering citrus flavor in the final product.

2. Cook the Pears: Transfer the rinsed pears to a large pot and add sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to coat the pears evenly. Place the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

3. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the pear filling simmer for about 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the filling from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The filling will gradually thicken, achieving a luscious, syrupy consistency. Ensure that the pears are tender but not mushy.

4. Remove from Heat: Once the filling reaches the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 3: Canning the Pear Pie Filling

1. Prepare Canning Jars: While the pear filling is cooling, prepare your canning jars by washing them thoroughly with warm soapy water. Rinse well to remove any soap residue.

2. Sterilize the Jars: To ensure proper sterilization, place the jars in a large pot filled with water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let the jars boil for at least 10 minutes. This process kills any bacteria or germs present in the jars.

3. Prepare the Lids and Rings: While the jars are boiling, place the lids and rings in a separate pot of hot water to soften the seals.

4. Fill the Jars: Once the jars are sterilized, carefully remove them from the boiling water using canning tongs. Fill each jar with the cooked pear filling, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. This space allows for expansion during the canning process.

5. Remove Air Bubbles: Gently tap the jars on the countertop to release any trapped air bubbles. This step helps to prevent spoilage and ensures a tight seal.

6. Seal the Jars: Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills or residue. Place a softened lid on top of each jar and secure it with a ring. Make sure to tighten the ring just enough to hold the lid in place without over-tightening.

7. Process in a Water Bath: Submerge the filled jars in a water bath canner, ensuring that the water level covers the jars by at least an inch. Bring the water to a gentle boil and process for 15 minutes.

8. Remove and Cool: After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water bath using canning tongs and place them on a clean towel or cooling rack. Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.

9. Check for Seal: Once the jars have cooled, check for a proper seal by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid is firm and does not pop back, it indicates a successful seal. Store properly sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Using Canned Pear Pie Filling

Now that you have your homemade canned pear pie filling ready, let’s explore some delicious ways to utilize it:

• Pear Pie: Use the canned pear pie filling as a quick and easy filling for your next pie. Simply pour it into a pre-baked pie crust and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Pear Tart: Spread the filling onto a prepared tart shell and bake until the crust is crisp and the filling is set. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pear Crumble: Pour the filling into a baking dish and top it with a buttery crumble made from flour, sugar, and butter. Bake until the crumble is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Homemade canned pear pie filling allows you to enjoy the flavors of fresh, juicy pears all year round. By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you can create your own jars of delicious filling, perfect for making pies, tarts, crumbles, and more. With the added bonus of controlling the ingredients and avoiding preservatives, this recipe is sure to elevate your dessert game. So, why wait? Start canning your pear pie filling and unlock a world of sweet possibilities!

Pear Pie Filling | Water Bath Canning Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients do I need for making canned pear pie filling?

To make canned pear pie filling, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups of peeled, cored, and sliced pears
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup of cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 cup of water

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned pears instead of fresh ones for your canned pear pie filling. However, make sure to drain the canned pears before using them and adjust the sugar amount according to their natural sweetness.

How do I make canned pear pie filling?

To make canned pear pie filling, follow these steps:

1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and water. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the sliced pears to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pear pie filling cool down.
4. Once cooled, transfer the filling to clean jars or containers, leaving some headspace for expansion during canning.
5. Seal the jars tightly and process them in a boiling water bath for the recommended time based on your altitude.
6. After processing, let the jars cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

How long can I store the canned pear pie filling?

Properly canned and sealed pear pie filling can be stored for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place. However, it is recommended to use it within the first 6-8 months for the best quality.

Can I customize the spices in the canned pear pie filling?

Yes, you can customize the spices in the canned pear pie filling according to your preference. Feel free to experiment with different spices such as ginger, cloves, or cardamom to add unique flavors to your pie filling.

Final Thoughts

The canned pear pie filling recipe is a delicious and convenient option for those looking to make homemade pies without the hassle of peeling and slicing fresh pears. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a flavorful filling that captures the natural sweetness of the pears. By canning the filling, you can have it readily available for future pie-making endeavors or give it as a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, the canned pear pie filling recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a taste of homemade goodness.