There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of simmering fruit and spices filling your kitchen. This homemade spiced honey pear jam blends the natural sweetness of ripe pears with golden honey and warm spices for a spread that tastes like fall in a jar. It’s the perfect balance of fruity, floral, and spiced flavors, making it a versatile preserve for breakfast, snacks, or even savory pairings.
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Why This Spiced Honey Pear Jam Stands Out
What makes this homemade spiced honey pear jam special is its rich depth of flavor. Unlike overly sweet commercial jams, this recipe relies on the natural sweetness of pears and honey, enhanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The result is a jam that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s also beginner-friendly, requiring no fancy equipment, and is an ideal way to use up an abundance of fresh pears in season.
Ingredients for Spiced Honey Pear Jam
• Pears: Provide the fruity base with natural sweetness and texture.
• Honey: Adds floral notes and a smooth, complex sweetness that pairs beautifully with pears.
• Lemon juice: Balances sweetness and helps preserve the jam’s bright flavor.
• Cinnamon: Brings warm, cozy spice to complement the fruit.
• Nutmeg: Adds depth and a slightly earthy undertone.
• Ground ginger: Lends a gentle warmth and a subtle zing.
• Pectin: Ensures the jam sets properly for a spreadable texture.
Ingredient Swaps and Alternatives
If you’re short on certain ingredients, here are easy adjustments:
• Pears: Substitute with apples for a honey-spiced apple jam twist.
• Honey: Replace with maple syrup for a deeper caramel-like sweetness.
• Lemon juice: Try orange juice for a sweeter citrus kick.
• Spices: Add cardamom or cloves for a more complex spice blend.
• Pectin: Skip it for a softer, more rustic pear preserve (cooking time will be longer).
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Spiced Honey Pear Jam
- Peel, core, and chop the pears into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook down evenly.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the pears, honey, lemon juice, and spices. Stir to coat the fruit thoroughly.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the pears release their juices and begin to soften. This usually takes 10–15 minutes.
- Once the mixture is bubbling, use a potato masher or immersion blender to break down the pears to your preferred texture—chunky or smooth.
- Add pectin according to the package instructions, stirring constantly to avoid clumps. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Continue boiling for 1–2 minutes, then test the jam’s doneness by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.
- Remove from heat and skim off any foam.
- Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Allow jars to cool fully. Check seals before storing.

Tips for Perfect Spiced Honey Pear Jam
• Use ripe but firm pears for the best flavor and consistency. Overripe pears may make the jam too watery.
• Always taste the mixture before adding pectin—adjust honey or spices as needed.
• Avoid overcooking, which can dull the bright pear flavor.
• If the jam doesn’t set after 24 hours, reboil with a bit more pectin.
• Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening.
Serving Ideas and Variations
This homemade spiced honey pear jam is as versatile as it is flavorful. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:
• Spread on warm toast, croissants, or English muffins.
• Use as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes.
• Pair with cheese boards—especially brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar.
• Swirl into vanilla ice cream for a spiced pear sundae.
• Brush over roasted meats like pork or chicken as a glaze.
Flavor Variations
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a sweet-spicy jam.
• Boozy twist: Stir in a splash of brandy or bourbon at the end of cooking.
• Holiday version: Incorporate cloves and cardamom for a festive flavor.
Health and Seasonal Benefits
Pear season peaks in late summer and fall, making this recipe a perfect way to preserve seasonal bounty. Pears are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while honey offers antibacterial properties and natural sweetness. Together with warming spices, this jam not only delights your taste buds but also provides a cozy, nourishing treat.
Conclusion
Crafting your own homemade spiced honey pear jam is more than just making a spread—it’s capturing a season in a jar. The natural sweetness of pears, the floral richness of honey, and the warmth of spices come together to create a jam that elevates everyday meals. Whether you’re preserving fresh pears from the farmer’s market or making thoughtful edible gifts, this recipe offers both comfort and versatility. Once you try it, store-bought jams will never measure up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade spiced honey pear jam last?
Properly sealed jars stored in a cool, dark pantry will last up to one year. Once opened, keep refrigerated and enjoy within 3–4 weeks for the best flavor.
Can I make this jam without pectin?
Yes, you can simmer the pears longer to allow natural pectin to thicken the jam. However, it will result in a softer, more rustic preserve rather than a firm spread.
What type of pears are best for this recipe?
Bartlett and Bosc pears work beautifully because they’re naturally sweet and soften easily when cooked. Avoid overly firm varieties like Asian pears, which don’t break down as well.
Can I freeze homemade spiced honey pear jam?
Absolutely. Place the cooled jam in freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space for expansion. Freeze for up to 6 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before use.
More Relevant Recipes
- Apple Thyme Jam Recipe – Easy Fall Preserve: A fragrant and cozy preserve combining sweet apples with earthy thyme. This jam pairs beautifully with bread, cheese boards, and is a delightful seasonal twist much like spiced honey pear jam.
- Cranberry Apple Jam Recipe: Tart cranberries and sweet apples blend into a vibrant jam that’s both festive and versatile. Its balance of flavors makes it a great complement to savory dishes and baked goods, similar in style to spiced pear jam.
- Autumn Jam Recipe with Apples, Pears & Plums: A rich, fruity jam that captures the best of fall produce. With pears included, this recipe closely mirrors the comforting flavors of homemade spiced honey pear jam while adding extra depth with plums and apples.

Homemade Spiced Honey Pear Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 half-pint jars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Spiced Honey Pear Jam is a cozy fall preserve made with ripe pears, golden honey, and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or gifting during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped – natural sweetness and texture
- 2 cups honey – floral depth and smooth sweetness
- 1/4 cup lemon juice – balances flavor and preserves freshness
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon – warm, comforting spice
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg – adds earthy undertone
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger – subtle warmth and zing
- 1 packet powdered fruit pectin (1.75 oz) – helps the jam set
Instructions
- Peel, core, and chop pears into small, even pieces.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine pears, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir well.
- Cook over medium heat until pears soften and release juices, about 10–15 minutes.
- Use a potato masher or immersion blender to reach your desired texture (chunky or smooth).
- Stir in pectin and bring mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
- Boil for 1–2 minutes, then test jam consistency on a chilled plate.
- Remove from heat, skim foam, and ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Seal jars with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Cool jars completely and check seals before storing.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm pears for the best results.
- Adjust spice levels to taste before adding pectin.
- If jam doesn’t set, reboil with extra pectin.
- Unopened jars store up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.
- Refrigerate after opening and use within 3–4 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Jam & Preserves
- Method: Canning & Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg