Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce transforms two humble fruits into a rich, naturally sweetened side dish or dessert. Roasting the pears and apples deepens their flavors, bringing out warm caramel notes and a soft, velvety texture. Perfect as a fall or winter treat, this roasted fruit sauce is wholesome, comforting, and incredibly versatile.

What Is Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce?

This recipe takes classic applesauce and elevates it by adding ripe pears and roasting them instead of boiling. By roasting, the fruits caramelize and develop more complex flavors. Once soft and slightly golden, the fruit is mashed or puréed into a rustic sauce that’s excellent on its own, or served with pork, pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

Naturally sweet with no added sugar
Roasting brings out rich, deep flavors
Can be served warm or chilled
A great make-ahead side for meals or snacks
Perfect for kids and adults alike
Customizable with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg
Simple ingredients, big payoff

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

2 pounds apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
1½ pounds ripe pears (such as Bosc or Bartlett), peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ cup water or apple cider
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for added richness)
Pinch of salt

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or use parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the fruit

Peel, core, and chop the apples and pears into uniform chunks for even roasting.

Step 3: Combine in a baking dish

Place the fruit in the dish. Add lemon juice, water (or cider), and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg if using. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast until tender

Cover the dish with foil and roast for 45–50 minutes, stirring halfway through. The fruit should be very soft and lightly caramelized.

Step 5: Mash or purée

Remove from the oven. For a rustic texture, mash with a fork or potato masher. For a smoother sauce, purée in a food processor. Stir in butter if desired.

Step 6: Cool and store or serve

Let cool slightly before serving warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled later.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

Grilled or roasted pork chops – A classic sweet-savory pairing
Yogurt or cottage cheese – A refreshing breakfast or snack
Pancakes or waffles – A warm, fruity topping alternative
Roast chicken or turkey – Complements savory meats
Oatmeal or porridge – Swirl in for added flavor and sweetness
Vanilla ice cream – Makes an elegant, fruity dessert
Brie or cheddar cheese boards – Balances rich, creamy cheeses

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

Choose sweet, ripe fruit – It improves flavor and texture
Cut evenly sized chunks – Ensures even roasting
Add cider for more depth – Gives subtle spiced sweetness
Roast uncovered for caramelization – Adds golden color
Mash while still warm – Easier to get desired consistency
Skip the butter for a lighter version – Still rich and smooth
Chill fully if storing – Flavor deepens over time

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

Add fresh ginger – For a bit of warmth and spice
Toss in cranberries before roasting – Adds tartness and color
Sweeten with maple syrup or honey – For a touch of natural sweetness
Add vanilla bean or extract – Brings a comforting aroma
Roast with cloves or star anise – For a holiday twist
Stir in chopped toasted pecans – Adds crunch and richness
Serve in puff pastry cups – For a quick dessert bite

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

Refrigerate in sealed container – Lasts up to 5 days
Freeze in portions – Keeps well for up to 3 months
Label with date before freezing – For easy tracking
Thaw overnight in fridge – Or gently reheat from frozen
Stir before serving – To restore smooth texture
Use leftovers in baking – Great in muffins or cakes

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce

Stovetop method: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally
Microwave method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stir gently
Add a splash of water if too thick – Helps rehydrate the sauce
Serve warm or cold – Both are equally delicious
Top with extra cinnamon before serving – Enhances flavor

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 2g (with butter)
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 22g (natural fruit sugars)
Sodium: 40mg

Naturally sweet, fiber-rich, and full of comforting flavor.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Roasted Pear and Apple Sauce is a rustic, cozy dish that turns simple ingredients into something memorable.