Spiced Pear Apple Pie Recipe Best Homemade Fall Dessert

The delightful aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mingling with the sweetness of baked pears and apples is a sensory experience that screams autumn. This spiced pear apple pie isn’t just a dessert—it’s a cozy hug on a crisp fall day. Whether you’re curled up with a blanket or hosting a seasonal gathering, this pie will quickly become the star of your table. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll understand why I’ve been making it every fall for years.

I first stumbled upon the idea of combining pears and apples in a pie during a chilly fall afternoon. I had leftover pears from a farmers’ market haul and decided to experiment. To my surprise, the blend of tender pears and crisp apples created a texture and flavor profile that was nothing short of magical. Fast forward to today—this recipe is a tradition in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you! The spiced notes and flaky crust make it the perfect transition dessert as the leaves turn golden and the air grows brisk.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible spiced pear apple pie recipe. I promise it’s easier than it looks and worth every step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Fall Balance: The combination of pears and apples creates a beautiful harmony of sweetness and tartness.
• Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves bring out the best in the fruit, making each bite feel like autumn itself.
• Flaky Homemade Crust: Sure, store-bought works in a pinch, but this crust recipe is buttery, flaky, and so satisfying.
• Versatile: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it chilled with whipped cream for a special treat.
• Impressive Yet Simple: The elegant look of this pie makes it perfect for holidays or dinner parties, but the recipe is approachable for any home baker.

Unlike traditional apple pies, this recipe uses the juicy sweetness of pears to add depth and complexity. The spices don’t just flavor the filling—they transport you to a cozy fall afternoon. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and savor every crumb.

This pie is also incredibly forgiving. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find the steps straightforward. And the end result? Trust me, it’s worth the effort.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, seasonal ingredients to create a pie that’s bursting with flavor and warmth.

For the Filling

• 3 medium pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (Bartlett or Anjou work best)
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice (prevents browning and adds freshness)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tbsp (16g) all-purpose flour (helps thicken the filling)

For the Crust

• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp (15g) sugar
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6-8 tbsp (90-120ml) ice water

Optional Toppings

• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water for a golden crust)
• Coarse sugar (for added sparkle and crunch)

These ingredients are pantry staples and seasonal produce, making this pie accessible and affordable. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made pie dough, but trust me, the homemade crust is worth the effort!

Equipment Needed

• Pie pan (9 inches)
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or food processor (for making the crust)
• Peeler and corer
• Knife and cutting board
• Cooling rack

If you don’t have a pastry blender, simply use two forks to cut the butter into the flour—it works like a charm. For rolling out the dough, I recommend lightly flouring your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. Don’t forget to chill your crust for the best buttery flakes!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender to cut it into pea-sized pieces. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced pears, apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and flour. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.
3. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to your pie pan and trim any excess overhang.
4. Assemble the Pie: Pour the fruit filling into the crust and spread evenly. Roll out the second disc and place it over the filling. Seal and crimp the edges, then cut small vents in the top crust.
5. Add Toppings: Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, sparkly finish.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
7. Cool: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This ensures the filling sets properly.

Pro tip: If the edges of your crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield. You’ll end up with a perfectly baked pie every time!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Cold Butter is Key: Use cold butter for a flaky crust. Warm butter will result in a dense dough.
• Don’t Overmix: When making the crust, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can make it tough.
• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough prevents shrinkage and ensures a flaky texture.
• Vent the Top Crust: Always cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
• Let It Cool: Patience is key! Cooling lets the filling set, making slicing easier and cleaner.

These little details can make a big difference in the final outcome. Trust me, I’ve learned them the hard way!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and ensure the filling thickener is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Spice Adjustments: Add a pinch of cardamom for an extra layer of flavor, or reduce the cloves for a milder taste.
• Seasonal Twists: Try adding cranberries or walnuts to the filling for a holiday-inspired version.
• Mini Pies: Use the dough to make individual hand pies for easy serving and portion control.

Feel free to experiment! I once swapped pears with peaches in the summer, and it turned out beautifully. Let your creativity shine!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—pure bliss! For a special fall touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the whole pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze the pie by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This spiced pear apple pie is a treat, but it’s packed with goodness from the fruit!

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving (1 slice)
• Fiber: Pears and apples are great sources of dietary fiber.
• Vitamins: Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants from the fruit.
• Customizable: Adjust sugar levels or opt for natural sweeteners to fit your dietary needs.

Be mindful of portion sizes, and savor every bite guilt-free—it’s all about balance!

Conclusion

This irresistible spiced pear apple pie is everything you want in a fall dessert—warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday dinner or just because you’re craving something sweet, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.

I love how versatile this recipe is. You can tweak the spices, add a personal touch, or even turn it into mini pies. It’s perfect for sharing, but honestly, don’t be surprised if you want to keep it all to yourself!

Let me know how your pie turns out in the comments below. Did you try any variations? I’d love to hear your tips or see your creations. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious slice!

FAQs About Spiced Pear Apple Pie

Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, you can! While homemade crust adds a special touch, store-bought works great for saving time.

What type of pears and apples should I use?

Bartlett or Anjou pears and Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their texture and flavor balance.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Blind bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes or sprinkle a bit of flour on it before adding the filling.

Can I freeze the unbaked pie?

Absolutely! Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwave slices for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire pie in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

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