Homemade Amish Pear Honey: A Timeless Recipe for Sweet, Golden Perfection

Step into the heartwarming tradition of Amish kitchens with this incredible Pear Honey recipe. This delightful spread captures the essence of late summer and early fall, blending the sweet, mellow flavor of ripe pears with the tangy brightness of crushed pineapple. The result is a smooth, golden, honey-like preserve that tastes like pure sunshine in a jar. Perfect for slathering on warm biscuits, buttered toast, fluffy pancakes, or savory cornbread, this easy-to-follow, old-fashioned recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your home.

A jar of Amish Pear Honey with a spoon dipping in, ready to be enjoyed. — Amish Pear Honey

The Rich History and Enduring Appeal of Pear Honey

Amish Pear Honey is more than just a delicious spread; it’s a culinary heirloom passed down through generations. Its origins are rooted in the practical necessity of preserving the bountiful harvests of late summer and early autumn. When fruit trees were laden with ripe pears, inventive cooks sought ways to extend their enjoyment beyond the fresh season. Simmering pears with sugar was a natural solution, creating a sweet preserve that could be stored and savored during colder months.

The addition of crushed pineapple, a delightful twist that became popular over time, elevates this preserve to another level. Pineapple brings a vibrant, tropical tang that perfectly complements the subtle sweetness of pears, creating a more complex and incredibly appealing flavor profile. This unique combination cooks down beautifully, resulting in a spread that is rich, bright, and utterly irresistible.

While often made in late summer and fall to utilize peak-season pears, Amish Pear Honey also graces holiday tables. Its comforting, old-fashioned taste makes it a welcome addition to festive breakfast spreads, brunch buffets, and even elegant dessert boards. Whether you’re making it to preserve a harvest or simply to enjoy a taste of tradition, this pear honey is a delightful treat any time of year.

Why This Pear Honey Recipe is Uniquely Delicious

What sets this Amish Pear Honey recipe apart is the harmonious marriage of two distinct fruits: succulent pears and zesty crushed pineapple. This ingenious combination yields a deep, multi-layered fruit flavor that is truly unparalleled. As the ripe pears slowly cook down, they become incredibly soft and smooth, melting into a luxurious texture. Meanwhile, the crushed pineapple contributes a refreshing burst of acidity and a natural sweetness that brightens the entire mixture.

The magic happens during the slow, gentle simmering process. This extended cooking time allows all the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming the simple ingredients into a thick, glossy, honey-like spread. The sugars caramelize slightly, enhancing the golden hue and creating that irresistible syrupy consistency. It’s a testament to simple ingredients and patient cooking yielding extraordinary results.

Essential Ingredients for Amish Pear Honey

Making this delightful pear honey requires just a few readily available ingredients. The quality of your produce will significantly impact the final flavor, so choose wisely!

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Ingredients:

18 Each Ripe Pears: Bartlett pears are an excellent choice for their sweet flavor and soft texture, which breaks down beautifully during cooking. However, any ripe, juicy pear variety will work. Ensure they are peeled, cored, and cut into 1-2 inch pieces.
1 (20 Ounce) Can Crushed Pineapples: Canned crushed pineapple is convenient and provides the perfect consistency and tang. Remember the hint below about draining it slightly!
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and helps with the setting process. It prevents the honey from being overly sweet and adds a crucial acidic balance.
7 Cups Granulated Sugar: Sugar acts as both a sweetener and a preservative, helping to create the thick, syrupy consistency of the honey.

Choosing perfectly ripe pears is key. They should be firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure at the stem end, indicating maximum sweetness and juiciness. Avoid overly soft or bruised pears. The lemon juice is non-negotiable, as it cuts through the richness and helps the natural pectin in the pears to set, resulting in that desired honey-like texture.

Recipe Walkthrough: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own batch of luscious Amish Pear Honey. Patience is a virtue when making preserves, and the slow simmer is key to developing that rich flavor and perfect consistency.

A large pot filled with pieces of pear, peeled and cored. — **Step 1 – Preparation:** Peel all the pears, carefully remove their cores, and chop them into uniform 1-2 inch pieces. Transfer the prepared pear pieces to a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven. A heavy pot is essential for even heat distribution and to prevent scorching.

A large heavy bottomed pot with some chopped pears, sugar, crushed pineapple and lemon juice, ready for cooking. — **Step 2 – Combine and Simmer:** Add the granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and the crushed pineapple (drained slightly as per our hint below) to the pot with the pears. Stir all the ingredients well to combine them thoroughly. Cover the pot and place it over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pears should become wonderfully soft, and the ‘syrup’ will begin to thicken. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!

A large pot with pears that have been cooked down and mashed into a honey-like consistency. — **Step 3 – Mash and Jar:** Once the pears are tender and the liquid has sufficiently thickened, turn off the heat. Using a potato masher, gently mash any remaining pear pieces until you achieve your desired smooth, jam-like consistency. For an even smoother texture, an immersion blender can be used carefully, keeping safety in mind with hot fruit. Meanwhile, sanitize your mason jars and lids by boiling them in a large pot for 10 minutes. Once sanitized, carefully drain the jars. Spoon the hot pear honey mixture into the hot, sanitized mason jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean with a damp paper towel to ensure a good seal, then firmly apply the sanitized lids and bands. As the jars cool, you’ll hear a “pop” sound from the lids, confirming they have sealed airtight. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing.

Hint: When adding the crushed pineapple, drain it just a little. You want to retain some of its flavorful juice, as it contributes to the overall taste and helps the mixture cook down. However, too much liquid can make your homemade pear honey watery, requiring a longer cooking time to reach the desired thickness.

Creative Variations and Substitution Ideas

While this classic Amish Pear Honey recipe is perfect as is, it also lends itself beautifully to experimentation. Feel free to play with these variations and alternate ideas to customize the flavor to your liking:

Warm Spices: For an extra layer of comfort and fall-inspired flavor, stir in ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, or a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg during the last 15 minutes of cooking. A blend of all three would also be delightful.
Milder Fruit Profile: If you prefer a less tangy or more subtle fruit flavor, you can swap out the crushed pineapple for an equal amount of finely diced apples. Choose a sweet-tart apple variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best results.
Enhanced Depth of Flavor: A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract or a few drops of almond extract added at the very end of cooking can dramatically deepen and round out the fruit flavors.
Rich, Caramel Notes: Substitute half or all of the granulated sugar with light brown sugar. This will introduce a wonderful molasses-like richness and a subtle caramel undertone, making the pear honey even more indulgent.
A Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little zest, stir in ½ to 1 teaspoon of finely grated fresh ginger or ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger powder along with the other ingredients. It adds a bright, invigorating warmth.
Herbal Infusion: Consider adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or a few basil leaves to the pot during simmering for a unique, sophisticated twist. Remove the herbs before mashing and jarring.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Even experienced cooks can encounter minor hiccups. Here are some solutions to common issues you might face while making your pear honey:

Pear Honey is Too Watery: This usually means there’s too much liquid. Simply continue cooking the mixture, uncovered, at a gentle simmer. This allows the extra liquid from the pineapple and pears to evaporate, thickening the honey. Be patient, as it might take an additional 15-30 minutes.
Not Thick Enough After Cooling: Jams and preserves thicken significantly as they cool. If it still feels too thin after being completely cooled, return it to the pot and simmer again for a few more minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Pear Honey is Too Sweet: If the sweetness is overwhelming, add another splash of fresh lemon juice, about ½ to 1 tablespoon. The acidity will help to balance the sugar.
Burning on the Bottom: This is a sign that your heat is too high. Ensure you are cooking the pear honey on a low, gentle simmer. Stir often, especially towards the end of the cooking process when the mixture is thicker, to prevent it from sticking and scorching. Using a heavy-bottomed pot also helps immensely.
Pears Not Softening: If your pears are still hard after the initial cooking time, they might not have been fully ripe or were cut too large. Continue simmering, covered, until they are tender enough to mash easily. You can add a tablespoon or two of water if the mixture seems too dry.

A piece of toast with some Amish Pear Honey spread on top, ready to be eaten.

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More Fruit-Filled Recipes You’ll Adore

If you’re a fan of fruit-forward recipes, explore some of our other delightful creations that celebrate the natural sweetness and versatility of fresh produce:

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Blueberry Milk

Storage and Canning Instructions for Pear Honey

Proper storage is essential to enjoy your homemade Amish Pear Honey for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it, whether you choose to can it or not:

Canning for Long-Term Storage:

If you followed the canning steps and processed your jars in a boiling water bath (after filling them with hot pear honey, sealing with sanitized lids, and ensuring they “pop” to confirm an airtight seal), you can store the sealed jars in a cool, dark pantry or cabinet for up to one year. This method creates a shelf-stable product.

Once a jar has been opened, it must be refrigerated. Consume the opened jar within two weeks for the best quality and safety.

Short-Term Storage (No Canning):

If you prefer not to go through the full canning process, simply allow the pear honey to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to clean, airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator. In the fridge, it will remain fresh and delicious for about 10-14 days. For even longer storage without canning, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

Mel’s Kitchen Notes: Expert Tips for Success

Pineapple and Cook Time: The crushed pineapple, while contributing fantastic flavor, also adds extra liquid to the mixture. This means your pear honey may require a slightly longer cooking time on the stove to achieve the perfect thickness. Don’t be tempted to rush the process by increasing the heat. Instead, let it simmer gently and patiently. Keep cooking until the mixture looks beautifully glossy, coats the back of a spoon, and feels syrupy when tested.

A jar of Amish Pear Honey, opened, about to be spread on a piece of toast, showcasing its beautiful texture.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meals

Amish Pear Honey is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways beyond breakfast toast:

Breakfast Staple: A classic pairing with warm biscuits, fluffy pancakes, waffles, French toast, or simply stirred into oatmeal and yogurt.
Cheese Board Companion: Its sweet and tangy profile makes it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese.
Dessert Topping: Drizzle it over vanilla ice cream, plain cheesecake, panna cotta, or use it as a filling for tarts and pastries.
Savory Applications: Don’t limit it to sweet dishes! Pear honey can be an excellent glaze for roasted pork or chicken, or a component in a flavorful vinaigrette for salads.
Beverages: Stir a spoonful into hot tea or sparkling water for a refreshing and naturally sweetened drink.

About The Author

Melanie Cagle

Melanie is a passionate professional cook, talented food photographer, and a true connoisseur of Cajun cuisine. Since 2020, she has been dedicated to sharing meticulously tested recipes and insightful culinary tutorials right here on her blog, The Cagle Diaries.

Her expertise and delicious creations have garnered recognition, with her work being featured on esteemed platforms such as Fox News channels, Yahoo News, Southern Living, and more. Melanie believes in making delicious, reliable recipes accessible to everyone, ensuring a delightful cooking experience every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What kind of pears work best for this recipe?

Bartlett pears are highly recommended because they soften quickly and have a naturally sweet flavor that shines through. However, any ripe, juicy pear variety, such as Bosc or Anjou, will yield excellent results. Just ensure they are ripe and fragrant.

Can I make this recipe without pineapple?

Absolutely! If you prefer a pure pear flavor or don’t have pineapple on hand, you can omit it. To maintain the volume and texture, simply use more pears (or even some diced apples) to make up for the pineapple. You might want to add a bit more lemon juice to compensate for the pineapple’s acidity.

Can I blend the pear honey for a super smooth consistency?

Yes, you can certainly blend it smooth! For a velvety texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot after cooking. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer batches to a food processor or regular blender. Be extremely cautious when blending hot fruit, as it can create steam and splash, potentially causing burns. Always start at a low speed and gradually increase.

How can I tell if my pear honey is properly set?

To check for proper set, place a small plate in the freezer before you start cooking. When you think the honey is done, remove the pot from the heat and spoon a small amount onto the cold plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready. If it’s still very runny, continue cooking for a bit longer.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?

Sugar plays a crucial role in both the flavor, texture, and preservation of pear honey. While you can slightly reduce it, drastically cutting the sugar may result in a thinner consistency and a shorter shelf life, especially if you plan to can it. For canning, stick to the recommended amount. For refrigerated or frozen batches, you might experiment with reducing by ¼ to ½ cup, but be aware of the potential changes.

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A close up of a jar of Amish Pear Honey.

Amish Pear Honey Recipe

This Amish Pear Honey is pure old-fashioned comfort in a jar! Made with ripe, juicy pears slowly cooked down with sugar and a touch of lemon, it transforms into a golden, syrupy spread that tastes like sunshine on toast.

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 1 hr 5 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 70 Ounces

Cuisine: American, Amish

Author: Melanie Cagle

Equipment

1 Dutch Oven
1 Potato Masher
1 Immersion Blender (Optional, for smoother consistency)
9 Mason Jars, 8 oz Glass Jars

Ingredients

18 Each Pears (Ripe, peeled, cored and cut into 1-2″ pieces)
1 (20 Ounce) Can Crushed Pineapples (Drained slightly)
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed)
7 Cups Granulated Sugar

Instructions

Peel and core the pears, then cut them into 1-2″ pieces. Add all the prepared pear pieces to a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot.
Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and slightly drained crushed pineapple to the pot with the pears.
Stir all the ingredients well to combine. Place the pot over medium-low heat. Continue to stir as the ingredients heat up until the sugar dissolves. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the pear mixture simmers, prepare your canning jars. Place nine 8oz Mason jars in a large pot, ensuring they are covered with water. Bring the water to a boil and sterilize the jars for at least 10 minutes. In a separate small saucepan, boil the lids for 5 minutes to sanitize them.
Once the pears are tender and have softened considerably, and the liquid in the pot has started to thicken into a syrupy consistency, turn off the heat.
Using a potato masher, mash the cooked ingredients until no large lumps of pear remain and you reach your desired smooth or slightly chunky texture. If you prefer an extra smooth honey, carefully use an immersion blender at this stage.
Carefully remove the hot, sanitized jars from their pot, draining any water. Spoon the hot pear honey mixture into each mason jar, leaving about ¼ inch headspace from the rim. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, wet paper towel to ensure a good seal. Place the sanitized lids on top, then screw on the bands until finger-tight.
As the jars cool, you will hear the lids “pop” as they seal, creating a vacuum. This usually happens within 5-10 minutes. You can also check the seal by pressing on the center of the lid; if it doesn’t flex, it’s sealed.
Allow the sealed jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Notes

To ensure proper long-term storage at room temperature, it is crucial that the mason jars are sealed correctly. This is evident after the lids have “popped” during cooling. You should also be able to press firmly on the top of the mason jar lid, and it will not yield or pop back up, indicating a secure airtight seal.

Once a jar of Amish Pear Honey has been opened, it should always be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 weeks for optimal freshness and safety.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 oz serving)