When it comes to sweet and savory flavors, few fruits can match the versatility of pears. From tangy and tart to sweet and indulgent, pears are a culinary chameleon that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a decadent dessert, pears are an excellent choice. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious pear recipes that will satisfy both sweet and savory lovers alike.
From classic combinations like pear and gorgonzola to innovative pairings like pear and chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, these recipes showcase the incredible diversity of pears. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouthwatering pear recipes.
Caramelized Pear and Goat Cheese Tart
Caramelized Pear and Goat Cheese Tart: A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for a seasonal dessert or snack.
Spiced Pear and Walnut Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of pears with the earthiness of walnuts, all wrapped up in a warm spiced package. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe pear, diced (about 1 cup)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, pear, and walnuts; stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Pear and Brie Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the warmth of roasted pears with the creaminess of brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the pear halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the pears in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, slice the brie cheese into thin rounds.
5. Arrange the roasted pear halves on toasted baguette slices, topped with a round of brie cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Honey Vinaigrette
This sweet and savory salad combines the freshness of pears with the creaminess of gorgonzola, all tied together with a drizzle of honey vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pear slices, Gorgonzola cheese, and arugula.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Vanilla Poached Pears with Whipped Cream
Sweet and tender pears poached in a flavorful vanilla syrup, served with a dollop of creamy whipped cream – the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel, core, and halve the pears.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the pear halves to the syrup and poach for 20-25 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove pears from syrup and let cool.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve poached pears chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cinnamon Pear Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast bowl that combines the flavors of cinnamon and pear in a creamy smoothie topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, cored and chopped
– 1/2 cup frozen banana
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Fresh fruit (such as sliced strawberries or blueberries) and granola for topping
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the pear, banana, almond milk, honey, and cinnamon. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
3. Top with rolled oats, chia seeds, fresh fruit, and granola.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pear and Almond Frangipane Galette
A classic French dessert gets a seasonal twist with the addition of poached pears, crunchy almonds, and flaky pastry. This galette is perfect for a warm-weather dinner party or as a sweet treat to brighten up your morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/2 cup frangipane filling (see below)
– 1/4 cup slivered almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Frangipane Filling:
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons apricot jam or honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange pear slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Spread frangipane filling over pears, followed by slivered almonds.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Pear and Ginger Jam
This flavorful jam combines the sweetness of pears with the spicy warmth of ginger, making it a perfect spread for toast, yogurt, or as a topping for cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine pears, sugar, water, and ginger in a large saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the pears are tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
4. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of jam
Pear and Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of pears with the richness of dark chocolate chips, perfect for a snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large ripe pear, diced (about 1 cup)
– 1 cup semi-sweet dark chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and diced pear until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pear and Prosciutto Flatbread Pizza
Pear and Prosciutto Flatbread Pizza Recipe
Elevate your pizza game with this sweet and savory combination: caramelized pears, crispy prosciutto, and fresh arugula on a rustic flatbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made flatbread crust
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and thinly sliced
– 6 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– 1/4 cup of caramelized onions (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread crust and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Caramelize the pears by cooking them in a pan with a little sugar and butter until tender.
4. Top the flatbread with caramelized onions, chopped prosciutto, and cooked pears.
5. Add crumbled blue cheese if using.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Glazed Pear and Pork Chops
Sweet and savory, these Honey Glazed Pear and Pork Chops are a match made in heaven. This recipe combines the tender juiciness of pork chops with the natural sweetness of pears and the richness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or pan-fry the pork chops until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Meanwhile, toss pear slices with remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Place pears on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized.
7. Brush honey glaze over pork chops during last minute of cooking.
8. Serve pork chops with roasted pears and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pear and Cranberry Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and savory take on classic French toast. The combination of caramelized pears, tart cranberries, and creamy mascarpone cheese creates a delightful flavor profile that will start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 ounces mascarpone cheese
– Cinnamon, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine pears and sugars. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10 minutes).
2. Meanwhile, prepare the French toast by whisking eggs in a shallow dish.
3. Dip each bread slice into egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Assemble the stuffed French toast by spreading mascarpone cheese on one side of each bread slice, then topping with caramelized pears and cranberries.
5. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Pear and Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
These cinnamon rolls combine the warmth of spices with the sweetness of pears and the crunch of pecans, creating a delightful treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large pear, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Spread diced pear and chopped pecans over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon over the top. Roll up the dough tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for expansion.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving. Enjoy!
Savory Pear and Rosemary Focaccia
Savory Pear and Rosemary Focaccia: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Italian Bread Recipe
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pears with the earthy flavor of rosemary, resulting in a unique and delicious focaccia that’s perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the mixture. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add remaining flour and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with diced pears, chopped rosemary, and drizzle with honey.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pear and Apple Crisp with Brown Sugar Topping
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of pears and apples with a crunchy brown sugar topping, perfect for a cozy evening treat. This easy-to-make crisp is ideal for fall gatherings or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett), peeled and sliced
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced pears and apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until well coated.
3. Transfer the fruit mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the topping evenly over the fruit.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pear and Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a luscious pear-blue cheese mixture. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together diced pears, crumbled blue cheese, and honey.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the pear-blue cheese mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pear and Hazelnut Chocolate Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent tart that combines the sweetness of pears, the crunch of hazelnuts, and the richness of chocolate. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on prepared baking sheet. Arrange pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle hazelnuts over pears, then drizzle with honey and melted butter. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Pour melted chocolate over tart and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pear and Caramel Bread Pudding
This sweet treat combines the comfort of bread pudding with the elegance of pears and caramel, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 ripe pear, diced (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, pear, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Pour in melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet and savory side of pears with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic desserts like Vanilla Poached Pears with Whipped Cream, to savory dishes like Savory Pear and Rosemary Focaccia, there’s something for every taste bud. Indulge in sweet treats like Cinnamon Pear Smoothie Bowl or Pear and Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies, or try your hand at more complex recipes like Roasted Pear and Brie Crostini or Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Honey Vinaigrette. Whatever your flavor, there’s a pear recipe waiting for you!
