Move over Southern peaches. These Southern pear recipes are to die for

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Pears are like the less popular cousin of peaches, but are still a staple in Southern cuisine. Whether it's the classic pear salad or pear cobbler, the versatility and accessibility of pears are part of what makes them a must-have in any kitchen.
If you are looking to serve pears on the dinner table, the following recipe list will have you covered. Warning: The recipe list is overloaded with dessert ideas. If you prefer peaches, then you must check out our top Southern peach recipes.
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Southern pear cobbler
What differentiates a cobbler from a crumble from a crisp? Simple: Cobbler is a fruit base with a doughy, almost cake-like topping rather than a crispy or crumbly, almost cookie-like topping. The result is a slightly less-sweet dessert that focuses more on the flavor of the fruit and the combination of textures. It really sings when served with a drizzle of heavy cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream that’s just starting to melt. Get the recipe here.
Southern pear and apple crisp
When it comes to crisps, crumbles and cobblers, there are plenty of opinions to contend with. Should the filling be extra tart to offset the sweetness of the topping? What is the ideal ratio of fruit to topping? Should the fruit show through or be completely covered? Oats or no oats? Get the recipe here.
Southern ricotta and pear cake
Chocolate and peanut butter. Strawberries and cream. The world of desserts is full of so many perfect pears. Or, rather, pairs. One of which is ricotta and pears! While this combination might not be as ubiquitous as, say, cinnamon and sugar… it should be! The slight sweetness of the pear and the rich tanginess of the cheese are a match made in flavor heaven. Get the recipe here.
Southern pear bundt cake
Did you know the Bundt cake, while based on a traditional European cake, was popularized in the United States in the 1940’s and 50’s? You can make almost any cake recipe into a Bundt, and because the pans can be quite ornate in their shape, the resulting cakes make for excellent presentation at holidays or events or even as a host gift. Get the recipe here.
Southern pear and walnut cake
A cake can feel like a commitment, not just because it often requires time and energy and a special trip to the store to buy ingredients, but because it leaves you with a large and often very rich dessert that, in all likelihood, you won’t be able to eat more than a slice or two of yourself. Now, you could make cupcakes, or invite a bunch of friends over to share… or you could make a cake that isn’t as rich or sweet, and enjoy it for breakfast, or with afternoon tea as well as for dessert. Get the recipe here.
Southern pear and ginger crumble
Is there anything more appropriate for the cold and dark winter months than a warm fruit crumble? If you’re tired of the traditional apple or berry version, why not try a sweet and seasonal pear and ginger crumble instead? It has all the best parts of a crumble, but with a very slight twist of fresh ginger and pear that will have dinner guests asking for your secret recipe.
Here’s a pro tip: if your crumble fills up the making dish almost to the top, line the bottom of your oven with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier! Get the recipe here.
Southern pear salad
If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of a Southern pear salad, you may be surprised to learn that it doesn’t traditionally involve any salad at all. The original recipe is only four ingredients: canned pear halves, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese and maraschino cherries. Get the recipe here.
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