Making Peach Jam from scratch is a perfect way to capture the sweet and juicy essence of summer fruit. It’s a simple and rewarding recipe that brings a taste of summer to your table all year round.

I grew up enjoying summer mornings when my mom made homemade peach jam. It was super delicious, especially when she spread it on my French toast. My mom was always looking for ways to get my daily dose of fruit, and this jam was the perfect way to do it. I liked this jam because it was sweet, fruity, and had just the right texture.

This summer, as you know, is peach season. So, I decided to share this easy-to-make peach jam recipe with you. I used fresh peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. And boom, you’ve got a delicious homemade peach jam.

I love to make it healthier by using less sugar and adding a bit of honey for natural sweetness. This way, you can enjoy a tasty treat that’s also better for you.

What is Peach Jam?

Peach jam is a sweet spread made from fresh peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. The mixture is cooked until it thickens into a delicious jam, which can be used on toast, pancakes, yogurt, and more. It captures the juicy flavor of ripe peaches in a jar.

Is Peach Jam Healthy?

Peach jam can be a healthy treat if enjoyed in moderation. Peaches are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and the jam retains some of these benefits. However, because it contains added sugar, it’s best to consume peach jam in small amounts as part of a balanced diet. You can also make a healthier version by reducing the sugar or using natural sweeteners.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1:

Start by peeling and dicing the fresh peaches. Measure out 4 cups and place them in a large saucepan.

Step 2:

Add 2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the peaches in the saucepan. Stir to combine.

Step 3:

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the peaches break down and the mixture thickens, which should take about 20-30 minutes.

Step 4:

If you prefer a smoother jam, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the peaches to your desired consistency.

Step 5:

Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavor of the peach jam.

Step 6:

To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a plate and let it cool for a minute. If it thickens and wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.

Step 7:

Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the jam to sterilized jars and seal them.

Tips

• To peel peaches easily, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. The skins will slip off effortlessly.
• Fresh lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and aids in setting the jam.
• Ensure your jars are sterilized by boiling them for 10 minutes. This prevents contamination and extends the shelf life of your jam.
• Cook the jam over medium heat to prevent burning. Stir frequently, especially towards the end.
• Taste the jam as it cooks. If it’s too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice. If it’s not sweet enough, add a little more sugar.
• Use the plate test to check if the jam is ready. Place a spoonful on a cold plate, let it cool, and see if it wrinkles when pushed.

Enjoy Your Homemade Peach Jam

My favorite way to enjoy Peach Jam is spread on warm toast in the morning; it’s a simple yet delightful start to the day. Also, it’s perfect as a topping for pancakes and waffles, adding a burst of fruity flavor.

For more savory options, try using it as a glaze for chicken, or pairing it with cheese and crackers for a delicious appetizer. Peach Jam is also fantastic stirred into yogurt or oatmeal, making it a versatile addition to both sweet and savory dishes.

How to store

To store Peach Jam, transfer it into sterilized, airtight jars while it is still hot. Seal the jars tightly to create a vacuum seal, which helps preserve the jam. Once the jars are sealed and cooled, store them in the refrigerator. Properly sealed and refrigerated, peach jam can last for several months.

FAQ

Do I need pectin to make peach jam?

No, this recipe does not require pectin. The natural pectin in the peaches and the addition of lemon juice help the jam to set.

How can I tell if the jam is ready?

Use the plate test: place a small spoonful of jam on a cold plate, let it cool for a minute, and push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, the jam is ready.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, but keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative and helps the jam set. Reducing sugar may affect the texture and shelf life of the jam.

Is it necessary to sterilize the jars?

Yes, sterilizing the jars is important to prevent contamination and extend the shelf life of the jam.

Can I add other fruits to the peach jam?

Absolutely! You can mix peaches with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a unique flavor combination.

How do I fix a jam that is too runny?

If your jam is too runny, you can cook it a bit longer to evaporate more liquid, or you can add a small amount of pectin if you have it on hand.

Can I use honey or another sweetener instead of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute honey or other sweeteners, but the texture and preservation qualities might change. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Conclusion

Peach Jam is a sweet and easy recipe that brings out the best of fresh peaches. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make a delicious jam perfect for toast, pancakes, and more. It’s a great way to enjoy the taste of summer anytime.

Peach Jam Recipe

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: CondimentCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

2

cups

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

45

minutes

Making Peach Jam from scratch is a perfect way to capture the sweet and juicy essence of summer fruit. It’s a simple and rewarding recipe that brings a taste of summer to your table all year round.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

• Start by peeling and dicing the fresh peaches. Measure out 4 cups and place them in a large saucepan.
• Add 2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the peaches in the saucepan. Stir to combine.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the peaches break down and the mixture thickens, which should take about 20-30 minutes.
• If you prefer a smoother jam, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the peaches to your desired consistency.
• Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavor of the peach jam.
• To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a plate and let it cool for a minute. If it thickens and wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.
• Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Notes

• Use the plate test to check if the jam is ready. Place a spoonful on a cold plate, let it cool, and see if it wrinkles when pushed.