Canning Pears

This post is all about canning pears!

Growing up, I always loved visiting my dad’s house, especially during late summer when his pear tree would be heavy with fruit.

Every year, I admired the abundance of those sweet, juicy pears. But it wasn’t until recently that I learned something shocking.

While I assumed my dad was enjoying these pears, maybe sharing them with neighbors or saving them for later, it turns out he was doing something completely different.

One day, while chatting about his weekend chores, he casually mentioned how he’d been raking up the fallen pears from his yard and dumping them into the trash so he could mow the lawn.

I was floored!

All those beautiful pears going to waste? I knew I had to do something.

And that’s when the idea hit me: why not turn those pears into something we could enjoy year-round?

Enter canning pears!

Why Can Pears?

Canning pears is a fantastic way to preserve their natural sweetness and flavor, providing a taste of summer even in the depths of winter.

It’s also an excellent solution for anyone with an overabundant pear tree or access to affordable, in-season fruit.

Plus, canned pears make a perfect addition to desserts, salads, or even on their own for a quick snack.

Step-by-Step Guide to Canning Pears

What You’ll Need:

8-12 pounds of ripe but firm pears (about 16-20 medium pears)
8 cups water
2 cups sugar (optional, for syrup)
¼ cup lemon juice (to prevent browning)
6-8 pint or quart canning jars with lids and bands
Large pot or water bath canner
Jar lifter, funnel, and bubble remover

Preparing the Pears:

Wash & Peel: Start by washing your pears thoroughly. Then, peel them using a vegetable peeler or paring knife.
Cut & Core: Cut each pear in half and remove the core using a melon baller or small spoon. If your pears are large, you can cut them into quarters.
Prevent Browning: To keep your pears from browning, place them in a bowl of cold water mixed with a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice as you work.

Preparing the Syrup:

In a large pot, combine 8 cups of water and 2 cups of sugar. (If you prefer a lighter syrup, you can reduce the sugar or use plain water.)
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Packing the Jars:

Hot Pack Method: Add the pear halves or quarters to the simmering syrup for about 5 minutes. This helps the pears retain their shape and prevents them from floating in the jars.
Using a slotted spoon, carefully pack the hot pears into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace.
Ladle the hot syrup over the pears, making sure they’re fully covered and still leaving that ½ inch of headspace.

Removing Air Bubbles & Sealing:

Use a bubble remover or a non-metallic utensil to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.

Processing the Jars:

Place the filled jars into a boiling water bath canner, ensuring the jars are fully submerged in water.
Process pint jars for 20 minutes and quart jars for 25 minutes, adjusting for altitude if necessary.
Once processed, carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.

Checking the Seal & Storing:

After the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn’t pop back, it’s sealed correctly.
Store your canned pears in a cool, dark place. They should last for up to a year, providing a delicious taste of summer anytime you need it!

Creative Uses for Canned Pears:

Pear Crumble: Combine your canned pears with some oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a quick, satisfying dessert.
Smoothie Boost: Add canned pears to your morning smoothie for an extra dose of fiber and natural sweetness.
Savory Salad: Pair them with blue cheese, walnuts, and greens for a sophisticated twist on a classic salad.

Canning pears has become a beloved tradition in our family, transforming what was once a waste into something truly special.

So, if you find yourself with more pears than you know what to do with, don’t let them go to waste like my dad used to!

Grab your canning supplies and create a pantry full of pear goodness that you can enjoy all year long.