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Slow Cooker Spiced Pear Compote

slow cooker spiced pear compote - featured image

This slow cooker spiced pear compote is a cozy, hands-off dessert made with ripe pears, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness. It’s perfect as a comforting treat, a topping for breakfast, or a homemade gift during the colder months.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium pears (about 2 1/2 lbs), ripe but still firm, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Peel, core, and chop the pears into 1/2-inch pieces.
  2. In the slow cooker insert, combine chopped pears, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg (if using), salt, and water. Stir well to coat the pears evenly.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, until the pears are tender and juices are bubbling. Stir gently after 2 hours to prevent sticking.
  4. Once the pears are soft and the liquid has thickened, stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Mash the pears with a potato masher for a chunky texture, or use an immersion blender for a smoother compote.
  6. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed. If too watery, cook uncovered on HIGH for 15 minutes to thicken.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

Notes

For a refined-sugar-free version, use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar. You can substitute apples for some of the pears, or add dried fruit or nuts at the end for extra texture. If your compote is watery, cook uncovered at the end to thicken. The compote keeps in the fridge for up to 1 week or can be frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: pear compote, slow cooker dessert, spiced pears, cozy dessert, gluten-free, vegan, easy dessert, fall recipe, holiday dessert, fruit compote