Cozy Pear Pie Recipe with Cinnamon & Ginger – Perfect Dessert

Introduction

Let me tell you, the smell of sweet pears mingling with the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon and ginger baking in the oven is pure magic. It’s the kind of scent that stops you in your tracks, makes you close your eyes, and just smile. The first time I made this pear pie, I knew I was onto something truly special—the kind of dessert that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandmother used to make pear desserts with the pears from her backyard tree. She’d always add a pinch of spice, and I swear, it made everything taste like fall in a bite. This recipe is my way of honoring those memories, while giving it my own little twist. My family couldn’t get enough of it—someone was always sneaking slices when they thought no one was watching (and honestly, I didn’t blame them).

This pie is perfect for family gatherings, a lazy Sunday treat, or even for gifting during the holidays. It’s dangerously easy to make, yet feels so fancy when you bring it to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into pie-making, you’re going to want to bookmark this one. Trust me, it’s a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under two hours, making it ideal for busy days.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed—you probably already have most of the items in your pantry.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a cozy dinner party, or just a treat-yourself moment, this pie fits the bill.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Rave reviews from both kids and adults alike (seriously, it disappears fast).
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of juicy pears, warm cinnamon, and zesty ginger is pure comfort food at its best.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors. The pears are naturally sweet, while the spices give it a warm, aromatic depth that’s hard to resist. And let’s not forget the flaky, buttery pie crust—it’s the perfect vessel for all that delicious filling. This isn’t just another fruit pie; it’s a celebration of autumn, nostalgia, and all things cozy.

One bite of this pie, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in my home. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people ask for the recipe before they’ve even finished their slice.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavors and a perfectly tender filling encased in a flaky, golden crust.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the filling:
• 6-7 medium-sized ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 cups)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (adds a hint of molasses flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (brightens the flavor of the pears)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the crust:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice-cold water
• Optional:
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the crust)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top)

If you need substitutions, you can swap out the butter for a plant-based option to make it vegan, or use gluten-free flour for a GF-friendly version. Seasonal variations like adding apples or cranberries can also work beautifully!

Equipment Needed



• Pie dish (9-inch works best)
• Mixing bowls (at least two)
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or food processor (to mix the crust)
• Peeler and knife (for prepping the pears)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush (for egg wash)
• Spatula

If you don’t have a pastry cutter, you can use a fork to cut the butter into the flour—it works just fine. For budget-friendly options, a simple glass pie dish and basic rolling pin will do the trick.

Preparation Method

1. Start by making the crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
3. While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, toss the sliced pears with the sugars, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer the dough to the dish and trim any excess around the edges.
6. Pour the pear filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. You can either keep it whole, create a lattice top, or cut decorative shapes for the top crust. Seal the edges by pinching or crimping them together.
8. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden finish.
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing—it helps the filling set properly. Trust me, patience pays off here!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Make sure your butter is cold for the crust—this is the key to achieving a flaky texture.
• If your pears are extra juicy, you may want to toss them with a bit more flour to avoid a runny filling.
• Don’t skip the chilling time for the dough! It prevents shrinkage and makes rolling easier.
• If your crust starts browning too quickly, tent the edges with aluminum foil.
• For a deeper flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.

These little tips make all the difference, so don’t rush the process—your pie will thank you!

Variations & Adaptations

• Seasonal Twist: Add cranberries or apples for a festive touch during the holidays.
• Dietary Adaptations: Use plant-based butter and gluten-free flour for a vegan and GF-friendly version.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or cloves for extra warmth.

I once tried adding a splash of bourbon to the filling, and let me tell you—it was a game-changer! Feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this pie slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—it’s heavenly. Pair it with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy experience.

To store, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just wrap it well and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back that freshly baked feel.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This pie is packed with vitamins from the pears, including Vitamin C and fiber. The spices like cinnamon and ginger not only add flavor but also have anti-inflammatory properties. While it’s definitely a dessert, it’s nice to know it has some redeeming qualities!

As always, be mindful of the sugar content if you’re watching your intake. If needed, you can reduce the sugar slightly without compromising the flavor.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts comforting and impressive, this Cozy Pear Pie with Cinnamon & Ginger is the one. It’s easy to customize, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell like heaven.

Here’s to cozy moments, delicious bites, and the simple joys of homemade pie.

FAQs

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Fresh pears are best for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, canned pears will work. Be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar, as they’re often packed in syrup.

What’s the best type of pear to use?

Bosc or Bartlett pears are ideal—they’re sweet and hold their shape well during baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Blind baking the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling can help, but with this recipe, the flour in the filling should keep everything nice and thick.

Can I freeze the pie?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Cozy Pear Pie Recipe with Cinnamon & Ginger – Perfect Dessert

Print Recipe

A warm and comforting pear pie with a flaky crust, infused with the aromatic flavors of cinnamon and ginger. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy treat on a chilly day.

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6–7 medium-sized ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 cups)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for crust)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for crust)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for crust)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for crust)
• 6–8 tablespoons ice-cold water (for crust)
• 1 egg, beaten (optional, for brushing the crust)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

1. Start by making the crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
3. While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, toss the sliced pears with the sugars, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer the dough to the dish and trim any excess around the edges.
6. Pour the pear filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. You can either keep it whole, create a lattice top, or cut decorative shapes for the top crust. Seal the edges by pinching or crimping them together.
8. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden finish.
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing—it helps the filling set properly.

Notes

[‘Make sure your butter is cold for the crust to achieve a flaky texture.’, ‘If your pears are extra juicy, toss them with a bit more flour to avoid a runny filling.’, ‘Don’t skip the chilling time for the dough to prevent shrinkage and make rolling easier.’, ‘If your crust starts browning too quickly, tent the edges with aluminum foil.’, ‘For a deeper flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25
• Sodium: 150
• Fat: 15
• Saturated Fat: 9
• Carbohydrates: 50
• Fiber: 4
• Protein: 3

Keywords: pear pie, cinnamon, ginger, dessert, fall recipe, autumn dessert, holiday pie, cozy dessert