Calling all Non-Commercial Foodservice Operators!

It's time for the

2025 CAN DO Challenge



We invite you to show off the creative, customer-pleasing ways that you feature U.S. grown canned Bartlett pears on your menu in smoothies, baked goods, entrées, salads, snacks, and desserts – all recipe categories are welcome.

You have until April 30, 2025 to submit your entries.

Take a look at previous winners for inspiration.

Meet Chef Ross Katz

Owner RHB Resources and Lead Instructor

Junior Chef Academy, Indianapolis, IN

First Place Winner of the 2024 CAN DO Challenge

Tacos al "Pear-Store" with Grilled Pears and Pear Tomatillo

What was your approach/inspiration for creating your

winning recipe? 

I’m a huge fan of traditional Mexican recipes, and I love to incorporate some of the techniques and flavors into my everyday cooking. So, when I approached the task of creating a unique recipe using canned Bartlett pears, I thought about some of my favorite dishes that combine fruity sweetness in savory applications.

You used the juice from the can of Bartlett pears for the marinade. What are other ways you would use the juice?

I’ve reduced the juice down to almost a caramel before, and it was a fantastic topping for ice cream. It’s also great with some tequila, Cointreau and lime for a fun spin on a margarita.

Order Free Bookmarks & Posters



Students like our bookmarks with a puzzle on the back, and posters add color to the lunchroom. They’re free! You can also download our education and inspiration resources, from menu tips and tricks to canned pear fun facts.

Pull Out the Pears for Baking Month

January is National Baking Month, and canned Bartlett pears are the ripe-and-ready ingredient that bakers appreciate. We flipped Pear Banana Muffins into a sheet pan version for schools and other high-volume kitchens. Try this on your menu, and let us know what you think!

Cozy Up with Canned Pears

Hearty grilled sandwiches, one-bowl dinners, and stuffed chicken thighs are just a few of our top picks for winter meals that help keep you feeling warm and cozy.

Our Sustainability Story

Did you know that Pacific Northwest Bartlett pear trees produce large and small fruit? Before the fruit heads to the cannery or to the fresh market, they are measured on the tree to determine the best destination. Pears that head to nearby canneries are ripened, then cored, peeled, and poached right in the BPA-free cans. Nothing is added except the poaching liquid—pear juice or a lightly sweetened syrup. This is the same time-honored canning process used by past generations of home canners to preserve the fruits of summer throughout the year. 

Pro tip: Did you know that everything in a can of pears is usable?