Quinces were probably the most widely used of fruit by the original colonists of America and were a staple in many households for generations. The flavor is described as a cross between an apple and a pear (much like the Asian Pear) and is the best fruit for making jams and jellies because of its high pectin. In fact, did you know that the word marmalade originally meant quince jam? So enjoy this great treat in lieu of the usual baked apples so often seen during the cold winter months.