Sweet, juicy, and often overlooked, pears are a quiet superstar of the fruit world. While they’re at their peak in fall, many varieties are available much of the year. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, a medium pear also delivers 6 grams of fiber—about the same as 10 prunes—making these humble fruits true nutritional powerhouses. Get inspired with these delicious plant-based pear recipes, from fresh salads and fruit pies to sauces, chutneys, cozy baked treats, and more. Whether you’re looking for a Thanksgiving-worthy plate or just a fresh way to use the bag of pears in your fridge, you’ll find it here.
This reader-favorite salad features air-fried beets, juicy pears, and hearty farro tucked into one satisfying dish. The orange-walnut vinaigrette enhances the pears’ natural sweetness and adds taste bud–tingling citrusy notes to every forkful.
“Amazing! Filling and tasty with flavor combinations that are superb!” —Mona
Always popular, this warmly spiced pear cake is topped with tender pear slices and crunchy pecans. Sweetened with molasses and maple syrup and kept moist with applesauce instead of oil, it’s elegant enough for a centerpiece yet easy enough for a weeknight dessert.
“I’ve made this cake many times. I’m about to make it again for Christmas tomorrow.” —Cindy
This bright chopped salad brings together two high-fiber superstars: sweet pears and hearty barley. Crisp veggies and tart dried cherries add freshness and zing, while a light pear vinaigrette—blended from the remaining fruit—gives it a fruity finish. (For a gluten-free twist, swap in quinoa or brown rice for the barley.)
“Yummy!” —Cathy
For these charming blueberry tartlets, pears are blended with vanilla, cashews, and a little maple syrup to create a silky, perfectly sweet filling. Spoon it into wholesome oat-cashew crusts, chill for a few hours, and then top them off with a jewel-toned, lavender-blueberry compote for a picture-perfect dessert that’s as wholesome as it is elegant.
“I have made this several times for different parties. People have really enjoyed them! I think they are super good.”
Love chocolate but want to keep it healthy? These chocolate quinoa bowls deliver rich cocoa flavor balanced by sweet, juicy pears. Lightly sweetened with maple syrup, they’re satisfying warm with plant-based milk for breakfast or chilled as a dessert-like treat.
“As always, I am amazed by the simplicity and yet deliciousness of this recipe.” —Miruna
This creamy vegan gratin layers sweet potato, onion, and pear in a luscious cashew “cheese” sauce. Fresh sage adds a herby note that complements the natural sweetness, making this dish perfect for holiday tables or cozy winter nights
“The perfect Thanksgiving buffet contribution!” —DC
Tart cranberries meet sweet pears in a bright, tangy relish that brings festive zing to every bite. Fresh citrus and warm spices make it a lively companion to holiday mains—or a vibrant topping for sandwiches the next day.
“Make this-you won’t regret it! I suggest a little extra fresh ginger, and it really does taste better on day 2!” —Brooke
This cozy pear crisp is the ultimate fall and winter dessert. Ginger- and cinnamon-infused baked pears turn irresistibly tender under a golden oat–pecan topping, creating a warm, comforting treat. Be sure to use ripe pears for the best flavor.
In this gourmet plant-based steak dinner, butternut squash steaks pair with roasted garlic, creamy herb mashed potatoes, and a balsamic drizzle. The mash itself gets a flavor boost from parsnips and pears, which adds a subtle fruit zing that pairs surprisingly well with the potato.
Celebrate autumn with this stunning pear–cranberry pie. A spiced maple–pear filling meets a nutty oat-and-walnut crumble crust, while tart cranberries add a festive pop of flavor and tang. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy fall gathering.
“This pie was delicious! And, it was easy to make! My husband called it a keeper and suggested we bring it to Thanksgiving dinner.” —Deb
This chunky cranberry chutney gets a citrusy upgrade from kumquats, while pears and golden raisins add natural sweetness. Spiced with cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger, cloves, and allspice, it has a sweet yet complex flavor. Serve as a condiment for holiday meals or with whole wheat crackers.
Inspired by Chef Darshana Thacker’s childhood Diwali traditions, this chilled fruit soup is a refreshing celebration in a bowl. A lightly spiced plant-milk base is filled with a rainbow of fruits—pears, apples, grapes, berries, and more—for a naturally sweet, nourishing treat.
“So good! Varied it a bit with fruit selection, and I used date paste for the sweetener. Will be a staple in my menu for sure!” —Teresa
This fall-flavored salsa combines crisp apples and pears with juicy pomegranate seeds, sweet dates, and a splash of orange. Cinnamon, allspice, and cayenne add a cozy kick. Serve with crunchy baked tortilla chips—perfect for parties, movie night, or anytime snacking.
“Yum! This embodies autumn perfectly.” C. Turner
This decadent tart starts with a rustic crust of walnuts, dates, and cinnamon, pressed together—no oven needed! The filling of spiced pears and cranberries is gently cooked until tender, then spooned into the crust for a naturally sweet, celebration-worthy dessert.
“Very delicious and so easy to make. I have made this so many times, and it is so good! I use whatever I have – pears or apples – and both are great.”
