Description
A delicious and sweet spread made from ripe peaches and maple syrup, perfect for toasts and pancakes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (600g) ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 cup (240ml) maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
- 1/21/2 teaspoon (1.5g) cinnamon
- 1/41/2 teaspoon (1.5g) salt
- 1/41/2 teaspoon (0.5g) nutmeg
Instructions
- Simmer Peaches & Maple: Start by placing the chopped peaches and maple syrup in a large pot over medium heat. You should hear a gentle bubbling as the mixture heats, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma. This process breaks down the peaches, so watch carefully to avoid sticking, which can lead to a burnt flavor.
- Stir In Spices: Once the peaches have softened, stir in the cinnamon and nutmeg. You will notice the spices mingling with the sweetness, creating a comforting scent. Adding spices at this stage allows their flavors to bloom, so it is important not to skip this step. Ensure you mix well to avoid clumps of spices.
- Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the mixture to a blender and puree it to your desired consistency. Blend until silky smooth, ensuring there are no gritty bits. It is essential to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid hot splashes.
- Cook Down for Thickness: Pour the blended mixture back into the pot and continue cooking on low heat. Watch for it to bubble softly as it thickens, which should take about an hour. This step is crucial for developing a rich texture; do not walk away!
- Cool & Store: Once the butter has thickened, let it cool completely in the pot. Transfer to jars and store in the refrigerator. Allowing it to cool helps the flavors settle and ensures it firms up properly.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.
- Expert Tips: For a thicker peach butter, if your mixture is too thin, cook it longer to evaporate excess moisture. If the flavor is too bland, increase cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg. Blend longer if texture appears gritty after blending. Adjust the amount of maple syrup for a more balanced sweetness based on personal preference.
- Reheating Instructions: If needed, reheat gently on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.
- Serving Suggestions: Spread on warm toast, use as a topping for pancakes, or serve alongside cheese and crackers.
- Recipe Variations: For a different flavor, you can substitute peaches with nectarines. Adding ginger can give a spicy kick, or mix in vanilla for a richer flavor.
- Ingredient Notes: Select ripe peaches by looking for deep color and a sweet aroma to ensure they are ready for use. If you do not have maple syrup, honey can be used as a substitute, adjusting sweetness accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg