Easy Pear Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and easy to pull off, you’ve got to try this Easy Pear Pie Recipe. It’s one of those sweet treats that feels fancy but comes together without any fuss — perfect for when you want to impress family or just spoil yourself after a long day. I absolutely love how the natural sweetness of Bosc pears shines through, complemented by warm cinnamon and a hint of fresh lemon zest. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a staple!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to highlight the natural flavor of the pears, with just the right touch of cinnamon and lemon to brighten things up. When I shop for pears, I look for Bosc because they hold their shape beautifully in pies without turning mushy.

• Double crust: You can use store-bought or homemade pie dough; the key is a buttery crust that crisps up nicely.
• White sugar: Adds the ideal sweetness, balancing the tartness of the pears without overpowering them.
• All-purpose flour: A little thickener to keep the filling from being runny.
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors without making it salty.
• Ground cinnamon: This warm spice brings that cozy, familiar fall vibe to the pie.
• Lemon zest: Adds a fresh citrus kick that brightens the overall flavor.
• Bosc pears: Peeled and sliced thin — this pear variety holds up well when baked.
• Butter: Diced and dotted over the top for richness and to help with browning.
• Lemon juice: Sprinkled over the filling to keep pears from browning and to add a hint of tartness.

Variations

I love customizing this easy pear pie recipe depending on the season or the crowd. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by throwing in a twist or two — I promise it only gets better that way!

• Add Ginger: When I want a little extra warmth, I sprinkle in some ground ginger with the cinnamon — it gives the pie a delightful zing.
• Swap Pears for Apples: Tried this combo during the holidays, and my family couldn’t tell the difference. You can even mix sliced pears and apples for a beautiful blend.
• Use a Streusel Topping: If you’re feeling indulgent, swap the top crust for a crunchy streusel — it’s a game changer!
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust and a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the filling, making this pie friendly for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Easy Pear Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 450 °F and placing a baking sheet on the bottom oven rack — this helps catch any drips and ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, roll out half of your pie dough and gently line your 9-inch pie pan, letting the edges hang over just a bit. This is where I find flouring the surface lightly keeps the dough from sticking and makes rolling easier.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest. These dry ingredients will coat the pears and help thicken the filling. Then, peel and thinly slice your Bosc pears — about ¼-inch thick is perfect for layering. When I first made this pie, I learned that thinner slices prevent that unwanted chunky texture and ensure the filling cooks evenly.

Step 3: Layer the Pears

Arrange the pear slices in the crust in layers, sprinkling the sugar mixture evenly over each layer. Dot the filling with diced butter and sprinkle with fresh lemon juice to keep the pears bright and flavorful. I like to take my time here and spread the pears gently, so I don’t tear the crust.

Step 4: Add the Top Crust

Roll out the remaining dough and lay it gently over the pears. I dip my fingers in a little water to moisten the edges of the bottom crust, which helps the top crust stick and seal properly. Trim the excess dough, fold the edges under, and flute them for that classic pie look. Before baking, cut a few small slits in the top crust to let steam escape — this avoids sogginess inside your pie.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your pie on the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 450 °F to set the crust. After that, lower the temperature to 350 °F and continue baking for 35 to 40 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles. This two-step baking might sound tricky, but it’s the secret I discovered that keeps the crust flaky and the filling perfectly cooked without burning the edges.

How to Serve Easy Pear Pie Recipe

Garnishes

I like to top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream — the cold creaminess is such a wonderful contrast to the warm, spiced pears. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top for a subtle crunch and extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or a glass of hot apple cider. For more festive dinners, I serve it alongside roasted nuts or sharp cheddar cheese — a surprising but delightful combo!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve tried cutting the pie into mini tartlets — they’re perfect for sharing and look so cute on a dessert platter. Another fun idea is weaving the top crust into a lattice pattern for a photo-worthy pie that tastes just as good as it looks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I cover the pie loosely with foil and keep it refrigerated. It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days — and honestly, the flavors deepen overnight, making each slice even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

I’ve successfully frozen baked pear pies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When I want pie later, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently — the texture holds up surprisingly well!

Reheating

Reheat slices in a 350 °F oven for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked warmth and crisp crust. Avoid microwaving if you can; it tends to make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pear Pie Recipe has been a warm hug in dessert form for me and my family. I love how straightforward it is — yet every bite feels special, like a little celebration of fall’s best flavors. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday, a cozy weekend treat, or just because, I’m sure you’ll enjoy making and eating it as much as I do. So go ahead, grab those pears, and give it a try. You’re going to nail it!

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