I've never had a quince before, and in fact, I've never really had a desire to even purchase a quince. But when I spied a bag of them marked down at my local Meijer for just $0.60, I decided I'd buy them and figure out how to use them later. I am SO glad I decided to step outside my comfort level a little bit, because this Vanilla Quince Butter is absolutely divine!
I wasn't really sure what to expect when I cut open the quince, but they're really quite similar to an apple, albeit with a drier texture.
After doing a little research on quinces, I learned that they have a slightly bitter taste (which I confirmed with a little bite, LOL), but that they sweeten up and turn a lovely rose pink color when cooked. I happened upon this simple recipe by Martha Stewart, and it became the base for my Vanilla Quince Butter.
I left my quince butter with more of a chunky, rustic texture than a smooth butter that was perfect on the crusty french bread that I paired it with. The vanilla adds a little more depth of flavor, and the end result is similar to apple butter, yet decidedly different.
Vanilla Quince Butter
adapted from MarthaStewart.com
Ingredients:
- 6 large quinces
- 3 c. water
- 3/4 c. sugar
- 1 t. vanilla
Directions:
- Peel, seed, and cut the quinces into eighths.
- Bring quinces, sugar and water to a simmer in a stockpot and cook until quinces soften, about 20 minutes.
- Reduce heat and gently simmer for one to one-and-a-half hours, stirring and mashing until a paste is formed.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.
- If a smoother consistency is desired, press the mixture through a sieve and discard the pulp.
- Refrigerate covered for up to one week.
Have you ever tried a quince before?
You might also like:
 Italian Wedding Soup {A Step Up From Chicken Noodle} |
 Toasted Almond Crisp Cookies |
Tara Kuczykowski is a married mom of three boys and two girls, ages 4 to 10 years, living in Columbus, OH.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I am so mad I’m stuck at work right now, because I want to go home and make this! I’m half tempted to lick the screen it looks so good! lol
Hi Tara,
I just discovered your website and will try out your Bisquick mix tonight. Can’t wait.
I used to live in South Africa and quince jam was a staple–my favorite jam. You could buy quince in cans, similar to canned peaches. Quinces are in the apple family. Remember “The Owl and the Pussycat” nursery rhyme? The last stanza includes, “They dined on mince, and slices of quince,
Which they ate with a runcible spoon.”
I didn’t realize they were in the same family as apples, but that definitely explains the similarities. I’m looking forward to trying them again in a few months when they’re in season.