Vanilla bean pear applesauce isn’t your standard applesauce but instead boasts the sophisticated flavors of vanilla beans and pears. No added sugar!
It’s no secret that I’m obsessed with vanilla beans! Shall I bombard you with links to prove my love? Sure, why not?
How about vanilla bean mashed sweet potatoes? I love vanilla bean spreadable whipped cream cheese and very vanilla buttercream frosting. Almond vanilla granola with vanilla beans, puffy vanilla bean peach pancakes, and cinnamon vanilla bean meringues. I have more but you’ll just have to take a look here.
I’m seizing the goodness of apple season (did you see my list of easy apple recipes?) and making lots of homemade applesauce. I’ve discovered that making applesauce in my Instant Pot is awesome.
Applesauce is pretty much one of my favorite things, ever. Along with vanilla beans.
About this pear applesauce
You only need three ingredients to make pear applesauce: apples, pears, and a vanilla bean. There is no added sugar in this applesauce, and you won’t miss it a bit because the vanilla bean adds so much sweet flavor.
I use Macintosh apples (one of my favorite varieties) which are super sweet and break down easily. They become “saucy” quickly, an added bonus if you’re in a hurry.
The pears add another layer of delicious flavor, along with the vanilla bean, which also enhances the applesauce with lovely little flecks of vanilla bean seeds. If you don’t want to buy vanilla beans (which can be a little pricey!), substitute vanilla bean paste.
One thing you’ll need when you’re making homemade pear applesauce is a sturdy pan or pot so you’ll be able to do all the stirring you need without worrying about the pan sliding around on the burner or the sauce burning on the bottom. A lid is necessary, too. A Dutch oven or heavy saucepan will do the trick.
I know you’ll love this pear applesauce as much as I do!
Make it your own
- Use all apples or all pears instead of a combination. Try your favorite varieties.
- Don’t have a vanilla bean pod? Add a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract or a tablespoon of vanilla bean paste.
- For cinnamon lovers: Omit the vanilla and substitute a teaspoon or two of cinnamon or apple pie spice.
- Sweeten it up: If you have a sweet tooth, stir in ¼ cup sugar, maple syrup, or honey.
Refrigerate/Freeze: Homemade pear applesauce will keep in your refrigerator in a covered container for a week to ten days. You can also freeze pear applesauce for up to 6 months.
Lunchboxes: Store the pear applesauce in single serving containers.
More Apple Treats
Vanilla Bean Pear Applesauce
Ingredients
- 2 large pears, such as red D’Anjou
- 6 large, sweet apples, such as Macintosh
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste)
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Peel, core and cut apples and pears into large chunks. Add pears, apples, split vanilla bean and water to a large, heavy bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven.
- Bring to a boil and reduce to a rapid simmer and cook, partially covered, 20 to 30 minutes or until apples and pears are softened. Stir frequently. Add more water if necessary for desired consistency.
- Serve warm or refrigerate for up to one week. Remove vanilla bean before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did You Make This?Share a comment and rating below! I love hearing what you think!
I would love the rockcroc everyday pan!
Love the reversible silicone baking mat! This applesauce looks great
Haha, I’m nosy, too! I always want to know what is happening under the lid. This sounds amazing, pear and vanilla bean?? And a great giveaway, too! You rock, darling.
This looks and sounds so good!!
I like the Mix ‘N Chunk!
I love the pink high heal cake server so cute,makes a great gift and supports a great cause !
So basic, but I could really use some microwave safe mixing bowl! Mine are metal, and I’m scared to try to melt chocolate in them (since I find myself needing chocolate sauce, oh, 24-7). Love your love for vanilla beans–I just ordered about 60 on ebay and need ideas for them, so this is perfect!
What a nice pan and that sure does take some heat. :)
I love the apples and pears and vanilla. I’m the same way about vanilla beans. I like to know where they’re from and how soft and plump they are and I’ll admit to hoarding them.
The insulated cooler!
The classic batter bowl would be helpful for pancakes! thanks!