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Easy Vanilla Bean Peach Preserves Recipe for Perfect Homemade Canning

vanilla bean peach preserves - featured image

A simple and satisfying recipe for homemade peach preserves enhanced with real vanilla bean, perfect for canning and enjoying year-round.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped into chunks
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon clear fruit pectin

Instructions

  1. Prepare your peaches by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to slip off the skin. Pit and chop into roughly 1-inch chunks.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds; add both seeds and pod to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
  4. Remove the vanilla bean pod and discard. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
  5. Sterilize jars and lids by boiling or using a hot dishwasher cycle. Keep warm until ready to fill.
  6. Using a funnel, ladle the hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and screw on lids firmly but not overly tight.
  7. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, ensuring water covers jars by at least 1 inch.
  8. Remove jars with a lifter and set on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing in a cool, dark place.

Notes

For chunkier preserves, mash some peaches lightly before cooking. Remove vanilla pod promptly to avoid bitterness. Blanch peaches for easier peeling. Adjust sugar to taste but note it affects preservation. Always sterilize jars and process in boiling water for safety.

Nutrition

Keywords: vanilla bean, peach preserves, homemade canning, peach jam, summer fruit preserves, easy preserves recipe