This delicious 2-ingredient quince paste also known as membrillo, is made in the slow cooker easily using quinces and caster sugar.

To make quince paste in your slow cooker or crockpot, cook the quince and sugar on high for three hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure smooth texture.

I love making this recipe because it’s simple and turns out perfect every time. The rich, fruity flavor pairs wonderfully with cheese.

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What is Quince Paste?

Quince paste, also known as membrillo, is a sweet, thick, and jelly-like preserve made from the quince fruit. It is commonly used as an accompaniment to cheese and crackers, adding a unique fruity flavor. Quince paste is a traditional delicacy in many Mediterranean cuisines.

Slow Cooker Quince Paste Ingredients

• 6 medium quinces (1.5 kg when cooked)
• 900 grams of caster sugar

How To Make Slow Cooker Quince Paste

1. Prepare the quinces: Wash the quinces thoroughly to remove the fur, then cut and core them. Cook the quinces until they are soft.
2. Blend the quinces: Blend the cooked quinces until smooth, then pass the puree through a sieve to ensure it is smooth.
3. Combine the ingredients: Place the blended quinces and 900 grams of caster sugar in the slow cooker.
4. Cook the mixture: Cook on high for 3 hours with the lid on. Stir every 15 minutes, scraping the sides of the slow cooker to ensure there are no lumps and to prevent the mixture from sticking.
5. Cool and set the paste: Once the cooking time is complete, pour the quince paste into greased muffin trays or a loaf pan. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in the fridge to set.

How can I tell when the quinces are fully cooked?

You can tell the quinces are fully cooked when they become very soft and can be easily pierced with a fork. It usually takes about 30 minutes of simmering in water for the quinces to reach this stage. Ensure they are tender before blending them.

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe quinces: Choose fully ripe quinces to ensure the best flavor and texture in your quince paste. Ripe quinces will be aromatic and slightly soft when pressed gently.
• Stir frequently: Stirring the quince paste every 15 minutes while cooking prevents it from sticking to the sides and ensures an even, smooth texture. This step is crucial for achieving the best results.
• Blend thoroughly: Make sure to blend the quinces until completely smooth before adding the sugar. This step helps to achieve a silky paste without any grainy bits, which enhances the overall quality of the paste.
• Check for lumps: After blending and before cooking, pass the quince mixture through a fine sieve to remove any remaining lumps. This extra step ensures your quince paste has a perfect, smooth consistency.

Recipe Variations

• Add spices: For an interesting twist, add a cinnamon stick and a few cloves to the quinces while they cook. This addition will infuse the quince paste with warm, spicy notes, enhancing its flavor.
• Use honey: Substitute half of the caster sugar with honey for a more complex sweetness. Honey adds a unique flavor and slightly different texture to the quince paste, making it an exciting variation to try.
• Citrus zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the quince mixture before cooking. The citrus zest brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the quince paste.
• Herbal notes: Infuse the cooking quinces with a sprig of rosemary or thyme. The herbal notes from these herbs complement the sweetness of the quince and add an intriguing complexity to the paste.

What To Serve With Quince Paste

Serve your quince paste with creative sides like sharp cheddar cheese, toasted walnuts, rosemary crackers, fresh figs, and crusty bread.

I highly suggest pairing it with brie cheese, prosciutto slices, or a glass of dry white wine for an elevated experience.

How To Store Leftover Quince Paste

In The Fridge:

Store leftover quince paste by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

In The Freezer:

Quince paste can be stored in the freezer by wrapping it in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Ensure you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 6 months without losing flavor.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
• Slow Cooker Sweetened Condensed Milk Caramel
• Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Banana Bread