Easy Homemade Sweet Peach Preserves
A simple and approachable recipe for sweet peach preserves that captures the fresh peach flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Ideal for breakfast spreads and gifts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: About 6 half-pint jars 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prep the Peaches (15 minutes): Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to peel easily. Pit and chop into 1-inch pieces.
- Combine Ingredients (5 minutes): In a large heavy-bottomed pot, add chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out juices.
- Simmer the Mixture (30-40 minutes): Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low-medium and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally until thickened and coats the back of a spoon. Skim off foam if it forms.
- Test the Setting Point (5 minutes): Place a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape when pushed, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering and test every 5 minutes.
- Jar the Preserves (10 minutes): Ladle hot preserves into sterilized jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal tightly, and let cool at room temperature. Store in refrigerator or a cool, dark place.
Notes
Do not rush the simmering step to develop flavor and texture. Stir gently but frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Skim foam for clearer preserves. Use ripe peaches for best flavor. Lemon juice is essential for flavor balance and natural pectin. Test setting with the wrinkle test on a chilled plate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (about
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12.5
- Carbohydrates: 13
- Fiber: 0.5
Keywords: peach preserves, homemade jam, peach jam, sweet peach preserves, easy peach preserves, fruit preserves, summer jam