Pear Preserves Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 pounds ripe pears, peeled and cored
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water
• 8 half-pint canning jars with lids and rings

Instructions

1. Cut pears into 1-inch chunks and place in a large bowl.
2. Add sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. Toss to combine and let stand for 30 minutes to macerate.
4. Transfer mixture to a large pot and add water.
5. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
6. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 45-60 minutes until pears are tender and mixture is thick.
7. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Test for doneness by placing a small amount on a cold plate - it should wrinkle when pushed.
9. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
10. Ladle hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
11. Wipe jar rims and apply lids and rings.
12. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
13. Remove from water and let cool completely before storing.