For a unique and delicious spread, consider this slow cooker cranberry-pear butter recipe. It combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet, mild flavor of pears, and a hint of warm spices. The result is a perfectly balanced, fruity spread that pairs well with scones, bread, and more. And the best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work!
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are likely already in your pantry or fridge, there might be a couple you’ll need to pick up. Cranberries are a seasonal fruit, available in most supermarkets from October through December. Pears are generally available year-round, but varieties may differ based on the season. Choose ripe pears for the best flavor.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter
Cranberries: These small, tart fruits are loaded with antioxidants and provide a tangy flavor to the butter.
Pears: The mild, sweet taste of pears balances the tartness of the cranberries. They also add a smooth, creamy texture when pureed.
Ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Ground cloves: Cloves contribute to the festive, spiced flavor of the butter.
Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to thicken the butter.
Orange: The zest and juice from the orange adds a bright, citrus note, lifting the overall flavor profile.
One reader, Dotti Burkhardt says:
This slow cooker cranberry-pear butter recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the texture is smooth and luxurious. It's a delightful addition to my breakfast routine, and the aroma while it cooks is simply heavenly. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Techniques for Making Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter
How to prepare the slow cooker cranberry-pear butter: This involves combining the cranberries, pears, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, and orange in the slow cooker and cooking until the pears are tender.
How to puree the mixture: Use an immersion blender to puree the cooked mixture until smooth.
How to cook the pear butter until thick: After pureeing, cook the mixture uncovered on high for 4 hours or more until it reaches a very thick consistency, stirring occasionally.
How to store the pear butter: Transfer the pear butter to an airtight container, cover, and refrigerate overnight before serving.
How To Make Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter
Enjoy a fruity combination of this pear butter on your sandwiches! It’s packed with tart cranberries and sweet pears, then slow-cooked for a richer spread.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 5ozcranberries,(1 cup)
- 36ozpears,(7 large), peeled, cored, sliced
- 1tspground cinnamon
- pinchground cloves
- ¾cuplight brown sugar,(unpacked)
- 1orange,zested
Instructions
-
Combine the cranberries, pears, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, and orange in the slow cooker.
-
Cover and cook on High for 2 hours until the pears are tender.
-
Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
-
Cook, uncovered, on High for 4 hours or more until very thick, stirring occasionally.
-
Transfer the pear butter to an airtight container, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
-
Serve over scones or bread, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 51.65kcal
- Fat: 0.10g
- Saturated Fat: 0.02g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g
- Carbohydrates: 13.58g
- Fiber: 1.99g
- Sugar: 10.14g
- Protein: 0.27g
- Sodium: 2.36mg
- Calcium: 13.21mg
- Potassium: 78.52mg
- Iron: 0.17mg
- Vitamin A: 1.34µg
- Vitamin C: 6.02mg
Key Technique for Perfect Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter
When using the immersion blender to puree the cranberries and pears, make sure to do so in a slow and controlled manner. This will ensure a smooth and even consistency for your cranberry-pear butter. Also, remember to scrape down the sides of the slow cooker periodically during the cooking process. This will prevent any fruit from sticking and burning, and will also help to incorporate all the flavors evenly.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Cranberry-Pear Butter
Use pre-cut fruits: Save time by using pre-cut cranberries and pears, available in many grocery stores, to skip the peeling and chopping process.
High setting: Cook the cranberry-pear butter on the high setting of the slow cooker to reduce the overall cooking time.
Immersion blender: Utilize an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the slow cooker, eliminating the need to transfer the hot mixture to a separate blender or food processor.
Overnight refrigeration: Let the pear butter refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld, saving time on immediate preparation and enhancing the taste.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter Recipe
cranberries - Substitute with pomegranate seeds: Pomegranate seeds have a similar tartness and juiciness to cranberries, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
pears - Substitute with apples: Apples can be used as a substitute for pears in this recipe, providing a similar sweet and juicy flavor when cooked down.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can add a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon, complementing the fruits in the recipe.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute for ground cloves, providing a warm and aromatic flavor to the butter.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of brown sugar, adding a rich and complex sweetness to the butter.
orange - Substitute with tangerine: Tangerine can be used as a substitute for orange, providing a similar citrusy flavor to enhance the fruit butter.
Presentation Ideas for Cranberry-Pear Butter
Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker cranberry-pear butter, consider using a fine china plate to showcase the vibrant color of the butter. The contrast of the deep red cranberries and the golden pear butter will create a visually stunning presentation.
Garnish with fresh cranberries and pear slices: Adorn the plate with a few whole cranberries and thinly sliced pear arranged in an artistic manner. This not only adds a pop of color but also hints at the flavors within the dish.
Accompany with artisanal bread: Serve the slow cooker cranberry-pear butter alongside freshly baked artisanal bread, sliced and arranged in an elegant manner. This will add a touch of sophistication to the presentation and provide a delightful pairing for the butter.
Incorporate a drizzle of honey: A delicate drizzle of high-quality honey around the edge of the plate will not only enhance the visual appeal but also complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the cranberry-pear butter.
Utilize edible flowers for a touch of elegance: Consider adding a few edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to the presentation for a touch of elegance. The vibrant colors and delicate nature of the flowers will elevate the overall aesthetic of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter
- Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures, making it perfect for slow cooking dishes like the cranberry-pear butter.
- Immersion blender: A handheld kitchen tool used to blend and puree ingredients directly in the cooking pot, making it convenient for creating smooth textures in dishes like the pear butter.
- Airtight container: A sealed container designed to keep air and moisture out, preserving the freshness and flavor of the pear butter when stored in the refrigerator.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Cranberry-Pear Butter
- Once the cranberry-pear butter has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a clean, airtight container or jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Make sure to leave about ½ inch of headspace at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when it was made.
- Store the cranberry-pear butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze it for longer storage.
- If freezing, consider using smaller containers or even ice cube trays to portion out the butter, making it easier to thaw only what you need.
- To thaw frozen cranberry-pear butter, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, give the butter a good stir to redistribute any separated liquid, and use it within a week for the best quality and flavor.
- Pro tip: For a delightful gift idea, divide the cranberry-pear butter into small, decorative jars and add a personalized label before sharing with friends and family.
Reheating Leftover Cranberry-Pear Butter
Reheat the cranberry-pear butter in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the butter doesn't burn or stick to the bottom of the pan.
Microwave the leftover cranberry-pear butter in a microwave-safe container for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the butter, as it may cause it to splatter or lose its smooth texture.
Spread the cold cranberry-pear butter on a slice of bread or a scone, and toast it in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes until the butter melts and the bread is crispy. This method creates a delicious, warm, and crispy treat that highlights the flavors of the butter.
Add a spoonful of the cold cranberry-pear butter to a bowl of hot oatmeal or porridge, allowing the heat from the cereal to warm up the butter naturally. This creates a tasty and comforting breakfast that combines the sweetness of the butter with the heartiness of the oats.
Use the leftover cranberry-pear butter as a glaze for roasted pork or chicken. Brush the cold butter onto the meat during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and caramelize slightly. This adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor to your main dish.
Interesting Fact About Cranberry-Pear Butter
Cranberry-pear butter is a delicious spread that can be used in various ways, such as a topping for scones or bread. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of cranberries and pears throughout the year.
Is Making Cranberry-Pear Butter at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this slow cooker cranberry-pear butter recipe is quite high. The ingredients are relatively affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly option for households. The combination of cranberries and pears offers a delightful flavor profile, and the addition of cinnamon and cloves enhances the aromatic appeal. The approximate cost for a household of four people is approximately $10-$15, making it a cost-effective choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10.
Is This Cranberry-Pear Butter Recipe Healthy?
The cranberry-pear butter recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fruit spreads, as it contains no added preservatives or artificial ingredients. The use of whole fruits provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of sugar, which can be a concern for those watching their sugar intake or managing diabetes.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar used, or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Add more spices like ginger or nutmeg to enhance the flavor without relying on sugar
- Incorporate other fruits high in pectin, such as apples, to help thicken the butter without the need for prolonged cooking
- Use a variety of pears, including those with a lower glycemic index, to minimize the impact on blood sugar levels
By making these adjustments, you can create a delicious and nutritious spread that can be enjoyed guilt-free. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a smooth and aromatic butter that pairs well with whole grain bread, oatmeal, or yogurt. Experimenting with different fruit combinations and spices can also keep this recipe interesting and adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences.
Editor's Opinion on This Cranberry-Pear Butter Recipe
This slow cooker cranberry-pear butter recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. The use of cinnamon and cloves adds a warm, aromatic touch, while the orange provides a refreshing citrus note. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and luscious butter that is perfect for spreading on scones or bread. It's a versatile and delicious condiment that will surely impress your guests.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter
Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Cranberry-Pear Butter
Why trust this Slow Cooker Cranberry-Pear Butter Recipe:
This slow cooker cranberry-pear butter recipe guarantees a burst of seasonal flavors. The combination of cranberries and ripe pears creates a luscious and tangy spread. The addition of cinnamon and a hint of cloves adds warmth and depth. The use of light brown sugar enhances the natural sweetness, while the orange zest brightens the overall taste. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich and velvety texture. This recipe promises a delightful and versatile condiment, perfect for spreading on scones or toasted bread.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Pear Butter Recipe
Pear Crumble Recipe
Vanilla Poached Pears with Almond Butter Porridge Topping Recipe
Cauliflower Nuggets Recipe
Roasted Broccoli Parmesan Recipe
Roast Beef Sandwich with Arugula and Shaved Parmesan Recipe
Coconut Chicken Salad with Warm Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Recipe
Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread Recipe
Arroz Congri (Cuban Rice and Black Beans) Recipe
Fish Tacos With Mandarin Orange Salsa Recipe
Idaho Sunrise (Baked Eggs & Bacon In Potato Bowls) Recipe
