Go Back

Peach Preserves

This easy recipe for canning transforms ripe peaches into sweet preserves, perfect for spreading on toast or enjoying straight from the jar.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Beverages, Preserves
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 7-8 pounds ripe peaches Choose fragrant and slightly soft peaches.
  • 4 cups granulated sugar To sweeten the peaches.
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Adds a zesty brightness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash the peaches thoroughly under cold running water, peel off the skin, cut them in half to remove the pits, and slice them into smaller pieces.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the sliced peaches with the granulated sugar and lemon juice, stirring well.
Cooking
  1. Place the pot over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil.
  2. Keep boiling until the mixture thickens, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  4. If not thick enough, continue cooking over medium heat, testing for thickness every 5 minutes.
Canning
  1. While the preserves are cooking, wash canning jars and lids in hot, soapy water.
  2. Use a ladle to pour hot peach mixture into hot jars, leaving ½ inch of headspace.
  3. Remove air bubbles by running a spatula around inside of the jar.
  4. Place filled jars into a water bath canner covered with at least an inch of water, bring to a boil, cover, and process for 10 minutes.
  5. Once processed, cool jars on a clean towel or cooling rack.

Notes

Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor variation. Blend for a smoother texture. Use the cold plate test to check for proper setting.