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Though autumn is often considered apple season, there's another fall fruit worth picking, too—and no, it's not pumpkins. It's all different types of pears!
Pears are typically in season from August through October. They're the humble hero of snack time and the star of so many sweet pear desserts thanks to their honey-like flavor and smooth, buttery texture. (If you thought apple pie was the only fall dessert worth baking, try making a comforting pear crisp instead!) Not to mention, there are tons of savory pear recipes and ways to eat them, such as tossing diced pears into your next fall salad or adding slices to a ham and cheese panini for a touch of sweetness.
However, just like with avocados and melons, pears are one of those fruits that will continue to ripen after being harvested. Depending on the type of pear you choose, some are better for baking into an apple-pear pie while others are ideal for adding to a seasonal charcuterie board. Before you get carried away with all the different ways to enjoy pears, you'll want to know the various types of pears to look for at the farm stand or supermarket. So, read on to find out which type of pear is best for you!
Bartlett Pears
These smooth-skinned pears (sometimes called Williams pears) have that distinct pear shape and sweet, juicy flavor. Though, you might see them in green colors in the store, they often change to yellow as they ripen. Alternatively, there are red bartlett pears as well. Both make for a tasty snack when sliced or a delicious addition to baked desserts. Bartlett pears are also often used for canning.
Bosc Pears
Bosc pears are unique for their brown color and elongated shape. The skin can have a relatively rough texture, but the flesh is perfectly sweet and crisp. They can hold their shape which makes them great for baking, poaching, or simply snacking.
Asian Pear
No that's not an apple you see! But Asian pears do have a strong resemblance to their closely related cousin. In fact, Asian pears are sometimes called apple pears, nashi, or Japanese pears. They have a round shape and crunchy texture. Unlike other pears on this list, Asian pears are better for eating raw or sliced up in salads rather than baking.
Seckel Pears
These adorable mini pears are round and sweet. They're known for having green skin with blush red coloring. Because of their small size, they make for a great snacking pear—just pack them in your kid's lunch box or grab them on the go!
Anjou Pears
This all-purpose pear can be found in two colors: green or red. They have a short, stocky appearance with smooth skin and juicy flesh that's prized for its sweet-citrusy flavor. Best of all, you can use Anjou pears for just about anything—baking, roasting, or eating raw.
Forelle Pears
This bell-shaped pear is easily distinguished by its freckled skin that turns a reddish color when ripe. The pretty appearance makes it a great choice for adding to a festive fruit bowl, then when you're ready to eat, they make for great snacking pears or a sweet addition to salads or cheese boards.
Comice Pears
You may recognize these light golden pears with blush red spots as "Christmas pears" that are often given as gifts around the holidays. They're very sweet and delicate so they're often packaged up with care. Since they originally hail from France, try serving them on a cheese board with your favorite piece of brie cheese.
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