Few things embody the essence of a cozy, autumn day like the sweet aroma of pears simmering on the stove, mingling with the warm notes of brandy. Pear Brandy Butter is the perfect accompaniment for your morning toast, scones, or even as a luxurious topping for vanilla ice cream. Easy to make and delightful to savor, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your home.
**Ingredients:**
– 4 pounds of ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of brandy
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
**Instructions:**
1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chopped pears, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the pears are very soft and easily mashed with a fork.
3. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the pears to your desired consistency, whether you prefer a smoother or chunkier butter.
4. Stir in the brandy, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors together.
5. To test if the butter is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate. If it holds its shape and doesn’t slide apart, it’s done. If not, continue to cook for a few more minutes.
6. Once ready, remove the saucepan from heat and let the pear brandy butter cool slightly before transferring it to clean, sterilized jars. Make sure to leave some headspace at the top of each jar to allow for expansion when freezing.
7. Seal the jars tightly and let the pear brandy butter cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to three weeks. For long-term storage, you can freeze the butter for up to three months.
With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a luxurious spread that will elevate any breakfast or dessert. Pear Brandy Butter is a delightful way to add a touch of sophistication and warmth to your table, whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself to a moment of indulgence. So, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of this fragrant butter and let its sweet, spiced flavors envelop you in pure comfort and delight.
