Winter Pear Butter

Peel, quarter and core the pears; chop in 1/2-inch pieces. Put all the ingredients in a large heavy pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and cook, stirring often, for 15 minutes, or until the pears are soft.

Puree the mixture in a food processor or blender and then return the puree to the pot. Cook uncovered over very low heat, stirring often, for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the pear butter is very thick. be careful not to let it scorch. Remove from the heat.

Stir the hot pear butter for a minute or two to release more heat and then spoon into clean, hot jars, leaving 1/4 inch of space at the top of each jar. Wipe the rim of each jar. Cover and allow to come to room temperature (It will be a gray-green color). Label the jars and refrigerate for up to three weeks.