10 Reasons Why Pears Are Totally Better than Apples

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterCulinary Producer at The Kitchn
I'm a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn's Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I've authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
updated May 1, 2019
pinterest
comments
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

There are two types of people in this world: those who believe apples are the one and only fall fruit, and those (myself included) who believe it’s time for pears to enjoy some time in the limelight. This mix of sweet and savory recipes will make pear-lovers swoon, and just might give those with a thing for apples a change of heart.

1. Roasted Pears with Bacon and Blue Cheese

Some crispy bacon, pungent blue cheese, and a handful of arugula are all that stand between you and turning those pears on your counter into the most amazing meal you’ll eat all week.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

2. Pear and Cinnamon Coffee Cake

If you think apple-cinnamon coffee cake is good, you have to try this pear-studded version. It’s a game-changer that’ll show you how amazing a fruit-filled coffee cake can really be.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

3. French Chocolate and Pear Clafoutis

Apples and chocolate don’t quite mesh. But pears and chocolate are a combination that just might blow your mind. It’s a little unexpected, yet it works so well — especially in this fast and fancy French-inspired dessert.

(Image credit: Kelli Foster)

4. Rustic Pear and Apple Galette

The best fall galettes are not made with apples alone, but with a generous addition of sliced pears. These fat-bottomed fall fruits bring a subtle change in texture and an extra layer of flavor.

(Image credit: Tessa Huff)

5. Caramel-Pear Upside Down Cake

This simple skillet cake packs a wallop of flavor and is guaranteed to impress. The pears caramelize and soften into the cake, while their bright sweetness is balanced with a medley of spices and the richness of cinnamon-spiked caramel.

(Image credit: Nealey Dozier)

6. Fiocchetti with Pears and Parmesan Cream

Just say yes to adding pieces of pear to creamy fall pasta dishes. It brings a hint of sweetness that’s just enough to balance this otherwise rich meal.

(Image credit: Christine Han)

7. Schnitzel and Pear Salad with Wheat Beer Vinaigrette

Not only will this quickly become your favorite way to turn salad into a meal this fall, but it will also show you that pears are one of the best fruits to pair with pork.

(Image credit: Emily Han)

8. Green Smoothie with Spinach, Pear, and Ginger

Ready to give your green smoothie routine a reboot? Swap in a pear (any variety will do) as your fruit of choice — it gives the drink some extra body and packs just enough sweetness for a well-balanced flavor.

(Image credit: Melissa Ryan)

9. Pear Gingerbread

Just when you thought a spiced gingerbread cake couldn’t get any better, there comes this version topped with a pretty layer of fanned-out pears. It’s just the right blend of sweet and spicy, and if you’re looking for something a little different, it’s a wonderful choice for your Thanksgiving dessert spread.

(Image credit: Emma Christensen)

10. Spiced Pear Muffins

Grab a few pears and go beyond your standard apple muffins this fall. Stick with pears that are just starting to go soft — they’ll hold their shape during cooking and turn into jammy pockets that dissolve in your mouth.

Filed in:
autumn
Ingredient
Recipe Roundup