CREAMY PEAR FILLING

Ingredients

Pear Filling

3 medium size pears or 2 large ones: 3 pieces

1 tablespoon lemon juice: 1 tbsp

45 grams (1.60 ounces) butter

30 grams (1.05 ounces) sugar

10 grams (0.35 ounces) powdered gelatin

60 grams (2.10 ounces) water for gelatin

Instructions

Step 1

Hello, everyone! Today I would like to show you how to prepare a delicious pear filling. The quantities are calculated for a layer with a diameter of 16-18 cm (6.3 to 7 inches).

Step 2

First, dice the pears into 1 cm (0.4 inch) cubes. Place the diced pears in a saucepan.

Step 3

If you're using larger pears, make sure the dice size is uniform for even cooking.

Step 4

Add the lemon juice, butter, and sugar to the saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat until the pears release their juice and it starts to cover the pear pieces. This will take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5

Stir occasionally to prevent the pears from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 6

While the pears are cooking, mix the powdered gelatin with the cold water and stir well. Place the gelatin mixture in the fridge for it to bloom.

Step 7

Blooming the gelatin ensures it will dissolve smoothly into the pear mixture.

Step 8

Once the pear mixture is ready and the juice covers the pear pieces, remove it from heat. Allow it to cool for a couple of minutes.

Step 9

Add the swollen gelatin to the pear mixture and stir until it dissolves completely.

Step 10

Make sure the mixture isn't too hot, as it could affect the gelatin's setting properties.

Step 11

Pour the filling into a mold. The filling should be 1.5-2 cm (0.6 to 0.8 inch) high, with a diameter of 16-18 cm (6.3 to 7 inches).

Step 12

Place the mold in the freezer overnight to set.

Step 13

Cover the mold with plastic wrap to prevent the filling from absorbing any freezer odors.

Servings

Looking for some creative serving ideas? 🌟 You're in the right place! This juicy pear filling is so versatile, the options are endless.

Classic Pie:
Serve this filling in a flaky pie crust topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the filling paired with the cold ice cream is *divine*! 🍰
Tart Delight:
Use the pear filling in a buttery tart shell, garnished with some fresh mint leaves and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Your guests will be begging for seconds! 🥧
Gourmet Over Pancakes:
Spoon the pear filling over a stack of fluffy pancakes for a decadent brunch. Add some whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair. 😋

Equipment

Medium-Sized Saucepan

This is essential for cooking the pears evenly. Make sure it’s deep enough to avoid any overflowing juices.

Measuring Spoons and Cups

Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Invest in a good set to ensure your recipes come out flawlessly each time.

Whisk

A whisk helps in stirring the ingredients smoothly and ensuring the gelatin mixes thoroughly without lumps.

Mold

Use a mold that matches the specified diameter (16-18 cm) for a professional finish. Silicone molds are great for easy release.

Variations

🌱 **Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations**

Gluten-Free:
Ensure that all your ingredients, including the powdered gelatin, are certified gluten-free. Switch up the pie crust to use a gluten-free crust mix or almond flour-based crust. Your tummy will thank you!
Vegan:
Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. Replace the gelatin with agar-agar powder (follow the package instructions for use). Enjoy a plant-based version that’s every bit as delicious! 🌿

Faq

How do I know if my gelatin is ready to use?
When the gelatin has completely absorbed the water, it will appear thick and gel-like. This means it’s ready to be mixed with your filling.
Can I use canned pears instead of fresh pears?
Fresh pears are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use canned pears in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and pat them dry before using.
How can I prevent my pear filling from turning brown?
The lemon juice in the recipe helps to prevent browning, but make sure to cover the filling tightly if you plan to store it for later use.
What’s the best way to dice pears evenly?
First, cut the pears into quarters, remove the core, then slice each quarter into even strips before dicing into uniform cubes. This method ensures even cooking.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and make sure your saucepan is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.
What’s the optimum freezing time for the filling?
Freezing overnight is ideal, but a minimum of 6-8 hours should suffice if you’re pressed for time. Ensure the filling is solid before removing it from the mold.