Make a quick pear compote in just 15 minutes with three simple ingredients. Perfect as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream!
Pear compote is one of those recipes that proves how simple cooking can be.
With just three basic ingredients and 15 minutes, you can transform fresh pears into something sweet, soft, and versatile.
It's easy enough for a beginner but satisfying enough for seasoned cooks. It works at breakfast, dessert, or even dinner.
And it's endlessly adaptable - from spiced and cozy to bright and citrusy.
If you've got a few ripe pears on your counter, don't let them go to waste.
Make this quick pear compote and see how many ways you can use it this week.
If you have lots of pears to use up, be sure to also try Pear Cake, Pear Syrup or Poached Pears in Red Wine.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's incredibly quick - ready in about 15 minutes.
- It's easy enough for beginners but satisfying for experienced cooks.
- You only need three basic ingredients.
- It's a versatile topping for sweet and savory dishes.
- It's a great way to use up ripe pears before they go to waste.
- It stores well, so you can make it ahead for busy mornings.
What is compote?
A compote is a simple fruit sauce made by gently simmering pieces of fresh or dried fruit with a little sugar (and sometimes water or spices) until they soften and release their juices.
It's quicker, looser, less sweet and less set than jam, with a spoonable texture and fresh fruit flavor.
You can serve compote warm or cold as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, ice cream, cakes, or even savory dishes.
Check out more fruit compote recipes, such as Raspberry Compote, Apple Compote, and Apricot Compote.
Ingredients
- Pears. The main ingredient. Use ripe but firm pears. Any variety works, but Bartlett or Bosc are my favorites.
- Sugar. Regular granulated sugar is perfect. You can also use brown sugar for deeper flavor or honey for a more floral note.
- Water. Helps the pears cook gently without burning. You can swap in apple juice or pear juice for extra flavor.
- Optional additions: a splash of lemon juice for brightness, a cinnamon stick or vanilla for warmth, or a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step photo tutorial, then scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and method.
Peel and core the pears, then cut the pears into small cubes.
Add the pears, sugar and water to a pot.
Stir and heat gently for 10-15 minutes over a medium/low heat, but stir occasionally so it doesn't scorch.
Cook until the pears break down slightly and the juices thicken a little.
Variations
- Add a cinnamon stick for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Stir in a splash of vanilla extract for extra aroma.
- Add a bit of grated fresh ginger for a zesty twist.
- Swap some of the sugar for honey or maple syrup.
- Add lemon or orange zest for a citrus note.
- Stir in dried cranberries or raisins as the compote cools.
- Add a splash of brandy or pear liqueur for a grown-up version.
- Mix pears with apples or plums for a mixed fruit compote.
- Add a pinch of cardamom for a fragrant, exotic flavor.
- Make it savory by reducing the sugar and adding black pepper and thyme.
Serving Suggestions
- Spoon over pancakes or waffles.
- Swirl into oatmeal or overnight oats.
- Layer in a yogurt parfait.
- Serve warm over vanilla ice cream.
- Use as a topping for cheesecake.
- Spread on toast or scones.
- Use as a filling for crepes or turnovers.
- Layer in a trifle or dessert parfait.
- Stir into cottage cheese or ricotta for a quick snack. Try it with Whipped Cottage Cheese.
Storage
Fridge: Store cooled pear compote in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Freeze in small containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Make-ahead: You can make pear compote several days ahead of time. It reheats beautifully, and the flavor often improves after a day or two as it sits.
Top tips
- Don't overcook the pears. You want them soft but not mushy unless you prefer a smoother compote.
- Adjust the sugar to taste based on how sweet your pears are.
- Add spices early in the cooking process so they have time to infuse.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- For a chunkier texture, stop cooking as soon as the pears are tender. For a smoother texture, cook a bit longer and mash gently with a spoon.
FAQ
It will keep in the fridge for up to 7 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Yes. If your pears are very sweet, you can skip the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work.
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📖 Recipe
Pear Compote
Equipment
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 3 ripe pears
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Peel and core the pears, then cut the pears into small cubes. Add the pears, sugar and water to a pot, stir and bring to the boil over a medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes or until the pears break down slightly.
- Tip: if your pears are very ripe, you might need less time, if they're firmer, you may need a little more time.
- Serve your pear compote warm or allow it to cool and store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Notes
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.
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