Sweet, naturally delicious, and incredibly easy to make, homemade oven-dried pears are a wonderful way to preserve fresh pears while creating a healthy snack the whole family can enjoy. Drying pears in the oven concentrates their natural sweetness and creates either crisp pear chips or chewy dried pear slices, depending on the method you choose. These homemade dried pears are perfect for lunchboxes, charcuterie boards, hiking snacks, or adding to oatmeal, yogurt, and baked goods.
Unlike store-bought dried fruit, homemade oven-dried pears contain no preservatives and can be customized with your favorite spices. A light sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and flavor, while the natural sweetness of ripe pears shines through in every bite.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
2 to 10 hours
Total Time
2 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 15 minutes
Yield
4 servings
3 to 4 firm ripe pears
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 quart cold water
Optional cinnamon
Optional cinnamon sugar
Quick Oven-Dried Pear Chips
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°F. Line large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Slice the Pears
Wash the pears thoroughly and slice them into uniform ⅛-inch slices using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Thin, even slices help the pears dry evenly and become crisp.
Step 3: Prevent Browning
In a large bowl, combine the cold water and lemon juice. Soak the pear slices for 5 to 10 minutes. Remove the slices and pat them completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place the pear slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they do not overlap. If desired, lightly sprinkle with cinnamon or cinnamon sugar.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 1 hour. Carefully flip each slice and continue baking for an additional 1 to 2 hours. Check frequently during the final hour to prevent over-drying.
The pears are ready when they appear dry and slightly shriveled around the edges.
Step 6: Cool
Transfer the pear slices to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. As they cool, they will continue to crisp and develop their chip-like texture.
Traditional Slow-Dried Pears
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, typically 170°F.
Step 2: Slice and Soak
Slice the pears into ⅛-inch slices and soak them in the lemon water mixture for 5 to 10 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly.
Step 3: Arrange for Airflow
Place wire cooling racks inside rimmed baking sheets. Arrange the pear slices in a single layer on the racks. This allows air to circulate around the fruit, promoting even drying.
Step 4: Slow Dry
Bake for 6 to 10 hours, depending on the thickness of the slices and the moisture content of the pears. Check periodically throughout the drying process.
The pears are finished when they are pliable, leathery, and no longer moist to the touch.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Allow the pears to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
For the best flavor, choose ripe but firm pears such as Bartlett, Anjou, Bosc, or Comice.
Thinner slices will produce crisp pear chips, while slightly thicker slices will create a chewier texture.
Store completely cooled dried pears in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer storage.
For added flavor, try sprinkling the pears with nutmeg, ginger, pumpkin pie spice, or cardamom before baking.
If any slices remain soft after cooling, return them to the oven for an additional 15 to 30 minutes.
