Spiced Pear and Apple Compote Recipe: Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert

This spiced pear and apple compote is a versatile and flavourful addition to your meals. With warming spices like cinnamon and ginger, a touch of maple syrup, and the sweetness of ripe pears and apples, it’s perfect for breakfasts, desserts, or even as a spread. Use it on porridge, yoghurt, or toast, or serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Ingredients

• Fruits:

  • 4 hard pears (peeled, cored, and cubed)
  • 1 apple (peeled, cored, and finely chopped)

• Flavour Enhancers:

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) water

• Spices:

  • 1 tsp cinnamon or cardamom powder (or a mix of both)
  • Optional: nutmeg, cloves, or seeds from ½ a vanilla pod for added depth

Method

1. Combine Ingredients

   • Place the pears, apple, ginger, lemon juice, maple syrup, water, and spices in a medium-sized saucepan.

2. Simmer the Compote

   • Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Check Consistency

   • Cook until the fruit is soft and the compote thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust sweetness or spices as needed during cooking.

4. Cool and Store

   • Allow the compote to cool slightly before transferring it to a sterilised jar. Store in the fridge for up to one week.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Spoon over natural yoghurt, muesli, granola, or porridge for a sweet and spiced morning boost.
• Dessert: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or use as a filling for crêpes or pancakes.
• Spread: Use as a flavourful topping for toast, scones, or even as a condiment for cheese platters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Natural: Sweetened with maple syrup and packed with fresh fruit, this compote is a wholesome alternative to sugary spreads.
• Warm and Spicy: The combination of cinnamon, ginger, and optional vanilla adds a comforting, festive flavour to any dish.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this compote comes together in under 30 minutes.

Tips for Success

• Use firm, ripe pears for the best texture.
• Adjust the spices to your liking—cloves and nutmeg can add a festive touch.
• For a smoother consistency, blend the compote after cooking.

This spiced pear and apple compote is a kitchen staple for adding warmth and sweetness to your favourite dishes. Whether you’re brightening up breakfast or creating a comforting dessert, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly versatile. Give it a try and enjoy its deliciously spiced flavour all week long!