Pear Pie Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful autumnal treat or simply want to indulge in a warmly spiced dessert that feels both cozy and elegant, this Pear Pie Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Imagine the perfect balance of tender, juicy pears infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, wrapped in a buttery flaky crust baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a comforting sweetness with a hint of tartness, making it an unforgettable dessert for casual family dinners or festive gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, yet each plays a vital role in achieving the perfect Pear Pie Recipe. From the ripe pears that bring natural sweetness and texture to the carefully chosen spices that add warmth and depth, every element contributes to creating a pie that is both flavorful and visually inviting.

• 10 medium ripe pears: Peeled and sliced to yield about 5 cups, these juicy pears are the heart of the pie, offering natural sweetness and soft texture.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds rich caramel notes and sweetness that balances the tartness of the pears.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling and prevents it from becoming too runny during baking.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and keeps the pears from browning, adding a refreshing tang.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Provides a warm spice that complements the pears beautifully.
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: Adds subtle earthiness and complexity to the spice blend.
• ¼ tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness in the pie.
• 2 9-inch refrigerated pie crusts: Convenient and flaky, these crusts provide the perfect buttery base and top for your pear pies.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Chopped into small pieces to dot the filling, adding richness and a tender finish.
• 1 large egg: Used for the egg wash to give the crust a lustrous golden glaze.

How to Make Pear Pie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Getting the oven nice and hot ahead of time ensures that the crust starts baking immediately, setting that flaky, buttery texture you want right from the first moments.

Step 2: Prepare the Pear Filling

In a large bowl, toss your peeled and sliced pears with the brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt. This mix not only infuses the pears with a perfect blend of sweet and spice but also thickens the juice released during baking, so your pie filling stays delightfully juicy without being soggy.

Step 3: Line the Pie Pan

Gently place one of your refrigerated pie crusts into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure to trim any excess dough from the edges. This forms the sturdy yet tender base that will hold your luscious pear filling beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Pear Filling

Carefully transfer the pear mixture into your crust-lined pan, spreading it evenly so every slice will have that perfect balance of fruit and crust. The mix will look fragrant and inviting, already smelling of cinnamon and fresh fruit.

Step 5: Dot with Butter

Scatter the chopped pieces of unsalted butter over the pears. These small buttery pockets melt as the pie bakes, adding richness that brings everything to the next level of deliciousness.

Step 6: Cover the Pie

Place the second pie crust on top of the filling. Trim the edges and press the two crusts together to seal your masterpiece. This seal locks in the juices, ensuring your pie stays moist and wonderfully flavored.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

Beat your egg with a splash of water, then brush this egg wash all over the top crust. This simple step promises a beautifully golden and glossy finish that makes your pie look as good as it tastes.

Step 8: Vent the Crust

Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the pie from becoming soggy and helping to maintain that perfect flaky crust throughout.

Step 9: Initial High-Temperature Bake

Bake the pie at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. This high heat jump-starts the baking process, setting the crust while beginning to cook the filling.

Step 10: Lower Oven Temperature and Finish Baking

Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for an additional 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on the crust — if it’s browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to avoid burning while the filling cooks through.

How to Serve Pear Pie Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh pear slices dusted with a bit of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon create an inviting finishing touch. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pie and elevates the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve your pear pie alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a lovely contrast, or pair it with a warm mulled cider to complement the cozy spices. This pie also pairs wonderfully with a cup of black tea or coffee to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try making mini pear pies in individual ramekins or tart pans — these personal-sized treats make sharing special moments even sweeter. Another idea is to drizzle caramel sauce over your slices just before serving to add an extra layer of decadence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Pear pie stays delicious for up to 4 days when refrigerated, making it a perfect treat to enjoy over several days without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze entire unbaked pear pies or individual slices. For a whole pie, wrap it snugly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual. Frozen pie will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat slices of pear pie in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes to bring back that flaky crust and warm, spiced filling. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain texture, but it can work in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh pears?

Fresh pears are preferred for their natural texture and flavor, but you can use canned pears if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the flour slightly to thicken extra liquid.

What type of pears work best in this Pear Pie Recipe?

Firm varieties like Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou hold up well during baking and offer the best balance of sweetness and texture for the pie.

Can I make the pie crust from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a wonderful buttery flavor and flakiness that pairs perfectly with the pears. Feel free to use your favorite recipe or a trusted one from scratch if you have time.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Using flour to thicken the filling, brushing the crust with egg wash for crispness, and venting the top crust all help keep your pear pie crust delightfully flaky and not soggy.

Is this Pear Pie Recipe suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, baked pear pie freezes well! Wrap it tightly and reheat in the oven to enjoy a freshly baked taste later on.

Final Thoughts

This Pear Pie Recipe is one of those precious gems that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. It’s straightforward to prepare, full of comforting flavors, and perfect for both everyday treats and special gatherings. I can’t wait for you to try it and let the lovely aroma and taste fill your home! Happy baking!

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