Peach Preserves Recipe: A Sweet Tradition
Nothing beats the simple joy of homemade peach preserves, especially when the peaches come fresh from your very own trees. This recipe, passed down from my mother, makes use of the juiciest, ripest peaches you can find, ensuring a sweet and flavorful preserve that brings summerโs essence to any time of year. With its delicate balance of sweetness and the fresh, sunny taste of peaches, this preserve will add a perfect touch to your morning toast, afternoon scones, or even a spoonful right from the jar. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, and with a little patience, youโll be rewarded with beautiful, golden preserves in about 4 hours.
Recipe Category: Fruit
Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield: 3 1/2 pints
Serving Size: Approx. 1 tablespoon per serving
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh peaches (peeled and chopped) | 6 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1478.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1g |
| Cholesterol | 0g |
| Sodium | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 379.9g |
| Fiber | 5.8g |
| Sugar | 375.1g |
| Protein | 3.5g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Peaches:
Start by peeling, pitting, and chopping the peaches into small chunks. This will allow the fruit to break down easily as it cooks, resulting in a smooth and flavorful preserve. -
Mix the Peaches and Sugar:
In a large, shallow glass container, combine the prepared peaches with the sugar. Stir well to coat the peaches evenly with the sugar. Cover the container and place it in a cool, dark place to let the mixture sit for 12 to 18 hours. This step helps the peaches release their natural juices, creating a sweet syrup that will form the base of your preserve. -
Cooking the Peach Mixture:
After the resting period, transfer the peach and sugar mixture into a large pot. Slowly bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure the sugar dissolves evenly. As the mixture begins to heat, the syrup will start to thicken. -
Simmer the Preserves:
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Stir often to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The peaches will soften, and the syrup will thicken into a rich, golden color. The goal is for the peaches to become transparent and for the syrup to coat the back of a spoon. -
Skim the Foam:
As the preserve simmers, you may notice foam rising to the surface. Skim off the foam using a metal spoon and discard. This ensures your preserves have a smooth, clear finish. -
Sterilize the Jars:
While your preserves are cooking, sterilize your jars by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes. This is essential to prevent any bacterial growth in the preserves once they are sealed. Make sure the lids are also sterilized. -
Fill the Jars:
Once the preserves are ready, immediately ladle the hot mixture into the hot, sterilized jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top of each jar (this is known as headspace) to allow for expansion as the preserves cool. -
Seal the Jars:
Place the sterilized lids on top of the filled jars and screw on the bands tightly. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could affect the sealing process. -
Process in Boiling Water Bath:
To ensure the preserves are properly sealed, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for long-term storage, as it helps to create a vacuum seal that prevents spoilage. -
Cool and Store:
After processing, remove the jars from the boiling water bath and allow them to cool completely on a clean towel or wire rack. Once cool, check the seals by pressing down on the center of the lidsโif they don’t pop back, the jar is sealed properly. Store your sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Tips for Success
- Peach Selection: The quality of your peaches is key to making the best preserves. Choose ripe, sweet peaches, preferably organic or locally grown, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Sugar Alternatives: If you prefer a less sweet version, try reducing the amount of sugar. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or agave nectar for a more complex flavor.
- Canning Equipment: Invest in a good-quality canning kit if you plan to make preserves regularly. This will make the entire process easier and more efficient.
- Storage: Properly canned peach preserves can be stored at room temperature in a dark, cool area. Once opened, refrigerate the jar and use within 2-3 weeks.
Enjoying Your Peach Preserves
Homemade peach preserves can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Spread it over warm biscuits or toast for a quick breakfast, drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat, or use it as a filling for cakes and pastries. You can also pair it with cheese or savory dishes to add a burst of sweetness that complements rich flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- On Toast or Biscuits: A classic way to enjoy peach preserves, spreading it generously over freshly baked toast or flaky biscuits.
- As a Topping: Spoon it over pancakes, waffles, or yogurt for a delicious breakfast or snack.
- In Desserts: Use peach preserves as a filling for tarts, pies, or layered cakes for a rich, fruity flavor.
- Savory Pairing: Serve it alongside sharp cheeses or roasted meats to balance savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Peach Preserves: A Taste of Summer in Every Jar
This peach preserves recipe is not only a tradition but a reminder of the joys of home canning. The sweet, syrupy preserve captures the very essence of summer, and itโs a great way to preserve the bounty of peach season. Whether shared with friends or savored at home, these homemade preserves will bring a touch of sunshine to any table year-round.
