Homemade Peach Jam Recipe: Sunshine in a Sweet Jar

Summer’s sweetness bursts through this delightful homemade peach jam that captures sunshine on a spoon.

Ripe, juicy peaches from local orchards become a magical spread that whispers memories of warm afternoons.

Each batch tells a unique story of careful selection and gentle cooking.

The magic happens when fresh peaches meet sugar and a hint of lemon, creating a vibrant preserve.

Pectin joins the party, helping the mixture thicken into a luscious consistency that feels like pure comfort.

Jars of this golden spread make wonderful gifts for anyone who appreciates simple, authentic flavors.

Come join me in preserving summer’s most delectable fruit in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Tips For Making Homemade Peach Jam Easier

• Perfectly Prep Peaches: Remove fuzzy skin by briefly blanching in boiling water, then quickly transferring to ice water for easy peeling and minimal fruit waste.
• Boost Flavor Depth: Add a splash of vanilla extract or ground cinnamon to enhance the natural sweetness of ripe peaches and create a more complex taste profile.
• Smooth Texture Trick: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to control the jam's consistency, leaving some delightful peach chunks for a rustic, homemade feel.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Swap traditional sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier version that still maintains the jam's rich, fruity essence.
• Storage Savvy: Store your homemade jam in sterilized glass jars in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or use proper canning techniques for longer preservation.

Best Ways To Store Homemade Peach Jam

• Refrigerate your homemade peach jam in an airtight glass container for up to 3 weeks.
• Place a tight-fitting lid on top and store in the coldest part of your refrigerator to maintain freshness.
• Freeze extra jam in freezer-safe containers with a small headspace for up to 6 months, ensuring you can enjoy summer's sweet flavors during colder seasons.
• Always use clean utensils when scooping jam to prevent bacterial contamination and preserve its delicious taste.

Great Matches For Homemade Peach Jam

• Pair with Creamy Cheeses: Spread this luscious peach jam on a slice of crusty baguette topped with brie or camembert for a delightful flavor combination that balances sweet and tangy notes.
• Match with Buttery Pastries: Swirl the jam into flaky croissants or use as a filling for delicate thumbprint cookies to elevate your breakfast or afternoon tea experience.
• Complement with Crisp White Wine: Enjoy a glass of chilled Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc alongside the jam, as its fruity and acidic profile perfectly enhances the peach's natural sweetness.
• Upgrade Morning Toast: Layer the homemade jam on warm, golden toast with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a refreshing and indulgent breakfast treat that celebrates summer's bounty.

Ways To Add A Twist To Homemade Peach Jam

• Spiced Peach Preserve: Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor profile that complements the sweet peaches.
• Boozy Peach Spread: Incorporate a splash of bourbon or rum during cooking to create a rich, sophisticated jam with depth and complexity.
• Herbal Peach Infusion: Mix in fresh chopped mint or lavender during the cooking process to introduce a subtle, refreshing herbal note that brightens the jam's sweetness.
• Ginger Peach Fusion: Grate fresh ginger into the mixture for a zesty, slightly spicy kick that enhances the natural fruity flavors of the peaches.

FAQ Guide For Homemade Peach Jam

• What type of peaches work best for this jam?

Ripe, fresh peaches with vibrant color and sweet aroma are ideal. Yellow peaches or freestone varieties like Elberta or Red Haven are perfect for easy pitting and maximum flavor.

• Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Thaw frozen peaches completely and drain excess liquid before using. They work great when fresh peaches aren’t in season and still create delicious jam.

• How do I know if my peaches are ripe enough for jamming?

Gently press the peach – it should have a slight give without being mushy. The skin should have a deep, rich color and smell sweet and fragrant. Avoid peaches that are rock hard or have green undertones.

• Do I need any special equipment to make this jam?

No fancy tools required! Just a large pot, potato masher or food processor, wooden spoon, and standard measuring cups are all you’ll need to create this delicious homemade jam.

Why Homemade Peach Jam Brings Back Sweet Memories

• Quick and Simple Preparation: Crafting this peach jam requires minimal kitchen skills, making it perfect for beginners wanting to try homemade preserves.
• Customize Your Texture: The recipe offers flexibility with the jam's consistency, allowing you to choose between chunky or smooth spreads by mashing or processing peaches to your preference.
• No-Fuss Ingredients: Using fresh peaches and basic pantry staples means you can whip up this delightful jam without hunting for specialized or hard-to-find components.
• Summer Preserve Magic: Capture the essence of peak summer peach season by transforming ripe, juicy fruits into a delicious spread that can be enjoyed year-round on toast, pastries, or as a gifting option.

What You Need For Homemade Peach Jam

• Peaches: Sweet and juicy stone fruits that form the base of the jam, best when ripe and fragrant. Look for peaches that are soft but not mushy, with a deep golden-orange color and sweet aroma.

• Sugar, Lemon Juice: Natural preservatives that help set the jam and balance the fruit's sweetness. Sugar provides structure and helps prevent spoilage, while lemon juice adds brightness and helps with pectin activation.

• Pectin: A natural fruit-based thickening agent that helps the jam achieve the right consistency. Use commercial pectin for a more reliable set, or rely on the natural pectin in lemon juice and peaches if you prefer a more traditional method.

How To Make Homemade Peach Jam From Scratch

Step 1: Prepare Succulent Peaches

Wash the peaches thoroughly under cool running water. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully slice around the peach and twist the halves apart. Remove the pit by gently pulling it out or cutting around it. Peel the skin using your fingers or a small knife. Chop the peaches into small, bite-sized chunks on a clean cutting board.

Step 2: Break Down Peach Texture

• Grab a potato masher and gently press the peach chunks
• Use a food processor and pulse a few times
• Employ a fork to mash the peaches
• Use a blender for an ultra-smooth consistency

Step 3: Cook Peach Base

Pour the prepared peaches into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Add sugar and a splash of lemon juice. Turn the stove to medium-high heat. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and help sugar dissolve completely.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Reduce heat to medium-low. Let the mixture bubble gently, stirring occasionally. Watch for the jam to become thick and glossy. This process typically takes about 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Test Jam Consistency

• Place a small plate in the freezer beforehand
• Drop a tiny amount of hot jam onto the cold plate
• Run your finger through the jam
• If it leaves a clear path and doesn't immediately fill back in, it's done

Step 6: Preserve Your Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into clean, sterilized glass jars. Wipe jar rims with a clean cloth. Secure lids tightly. Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 7: Store and Enjoy

Once cooled, store jam in the refrigerator. It will keep for several weeks. Spread on toast, mix into yogurt, or use as a delightful cake filling.

Homemade Peach Jam Recipe

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 10 1x

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Description

Sweet summer peaches shine in this homemade peach jam, delivering pure sunshine on a spoon. Rustic charm meets delightful flavor, inviting you to savor each spoonful of seasonal goodness crafted with love and simple ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit:

• 4 cups (960 milliliters) peeled, pitted, and diced fresh peaches (about 6–8 medium peaches)

Sugars:

• 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50 grams) additional sugar

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) vanilla extract (optional)

Thickening Agent:

• 1 packet (1.75 ounces / 49 grams) powdered fruit pectin

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly wash fresh, ripe peaches under cool running water to remove any surface dirt or residue.
2. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully slice the peaches in half and gently twist to separate the halves.
3. Remove the pit from each peach half by scooping it out with a spoon or cutting around it.
4. Slice the peach halves into uniform, small cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
5. Transfer the diced peaches to a large, heavy-bottomed pot, taking care to capture any released juices.
6. Gently crush the peach pieces with a potato masher or briefly pulse in a food processor to break down the fruit and create a slightly smoother consistency.
7. Add sugar and lemon juice to the pot, stirring carefully to distribute ingredients evenly.
8. Place the pot over medium-high heat, continuously stirring to prevent the mixture from sticking or burning.
9. Bring the peach mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.
10. Cook the jam, stirring frequently, until it reaches a thick, glossy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
11. Remove from heat and let the jam cool slightly before transferring to sterilized glass jars.
12. Allow the jam to cool completely at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.

Notes

• Choose ripe, fragrant peaches at peak season for the most intense flavor and natural sweetness.
• Experiment with adding a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to enhance the jam’s complexity and depth.
• Consider leaving some peach chunks for a rustic, textured jam that adds delightful bite and visual appeal.
• For a lower sugar version, use pectin designed for reduced-sugar recipes or substitute some sugar with honey for a more nuanced sweetness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Breakfast, Desserts
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 10
• Calories: 161
• Sugar: 34 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 0.5 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg