When it comes to quick and scrumptious desserts, few things can beat a classic pie. This Canned Pear Pie is not only easy to prepare, but it also allows you to enjoy the sweet, succulent taste of pears any time of the year. With a crispy crust and a gooey, flavorful filling, this dessert will surely impress your family and friends!
Why Canned Pears? A Sweet Shortcut
Using canned pears may seem like a shortcut, but it’s a game-changer! They are pre-peeled, sliced, and preserved at peak freshness, allowing you to whip up this pie in no time. Plus, they retain their natural sweetness, which is perfect for baking. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner!
Fun Fact About Pears
Did you know that pears are believed to have originated in China over 3000 years ago? They’ve traveled the world and are now a beloved fruit in many cultures, symbolizing elegance and purity. Now, let’s capture that elegance in a delicious pie!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Canned Pear Pie:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of sliced pears in light syrup
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Preparing Your Canned Pear Pie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, take your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. If you're using a homemade crust, roll it out to your desired thickness and place it in the dish.
Step 2: Create the Filling
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Drain the Pears: Open the cans of sliced pears and drain the syrup. You can reserve it for another use—perhaps in a cocktail or as a syrup for pancakes!
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Mix It Up: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pears, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and vanilla extract. Gently toss the ingredients together until the pears are well-coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
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Fill the Crust: Pour the pear mixture into the prepared pie crust. Make sure to distribute the pears evenly for a nice presentation.
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Dot with Butter: Scatter the small pieces of butter on top of the filling. This will add richness and help create a beautifully golden pie.
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Cover and Seal: Place a second pie crust on top if you’d like a classic double-crust pie. If you prefer a lattice top, roll out another crust and cut it into strips to create a beautiful lattice pattern. Don’t forget to crimp the edges to seal the pie.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
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Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust. This step is crucial—it gives your pie that golden, glossy finish.
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Bake It!: Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
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Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions: A Slice of Heaven
This Canned Pear Pie is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further! Consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an adult twist, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or serve it alongside a glass of dessert wine.
Perfect Pairings
- Wine: Pair this pie with a light dessert wine like Moscato or a crisp Riesling to complement the sweetness of the pears.
- Coffee: A rich, dark roast coffee balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the pie.
Final Thoughts: Explore and Experiment!
This Canned Pear Pie recipe is just the beginning! Feel free to experiment with spices—try adding ginger for warmth or a hint of lemon zest for brightness. You can also mix in other fruits like apples or cranberries to give it your unique twist. The possibilities are endless!
So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful baking adventure. Your friends and family will love the deliciousness of this simple yet satisfying Canned Pear Pie! Happy baking!
