Description
A delightful homemade peach jam that captures the flavors of summer, perfect for spreading on toast or topping desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups ripe peaches (about 8 medium-sized)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pectin (optional, for a thicker jam)
Instructions
- Wash the peaches thoroughly under cold water.
- Peel the peaches using a sharp knife or blanching method, then cut them in half, remove the pits, and finely chop the flesh.
- Measure out 4 cups of chopped peaches and transfer them to a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
- Place the saucepan with the chopped peaches over medium heat.
- Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Bring the peach mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Allow the mixture to boil for 18-20 minutes, or until the peaches have softened and the mixture has thickened.
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount of the mixture on a chilled plate and tilt the plate. If the jam doesn’t run a lot, it’s ready. If it’s too runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
- If you prefer a thicker jam, you can add pectin to the mixture during the cooking process. Add the pectin over the boiling jam and stir well to dissolve.
- Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, then remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool slightly.
- Transfer the jam to clean, sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top.
- Seal the jars tightly with lids. Place in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Notes
For a unique twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg during the boil.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg