Description
A simple and delicious peach jam recipe that captures the sweetness of ripe peaches.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups peaches peeled and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 packet pectin
- 1/21/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional
Instructions
- Prep & Sterilize Jars: Start by sterilizing your jars and lids. Boil them for at least 10 minutes to keep the jam from spoiling. Ensure the jars are hot and clean, which is crucial for proper sealing when filling them with hot jam.
- Cook Peaches & Sugar: In a pot, combine your diced peaches with sugar. Let it simmer until the peaches start to break down and release their juices. Stir constantly to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot. This mixture should turn a lovely golden color.
- Add Pectin & Lemon: Mix in the pectin and lemon juice to the peach mixture. This will enhance the jam’s acidity and stability. You will notice the mixture starting to thicken, and the aroma will be irresistible. Do not skip the pectin, or your jam may end up runny.
- Boil & Stir: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly. Look for large, consistent bubbles indicating it is ready to set. Boil for about three minutes, taking care to stir continuously to avoid scorching.
- Fill Jars & Seal Tight: Carefully ladle the hot jam into your sterilized jars, leaving a bit of headspace at the top of each jar. Wipe the rims to ensure a good seal, then twist on the lids tightly. A proper seal is important to prevent spoilage, so double-check this step.
- Cool & Store: Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. You will hear a satisfying pop as they seal, which indicates success! Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. Avoid rushing this step; warm jars will not seal properly.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2 weeks.
- Expert Tips: Use ripe peaches for the best flavor.
- Sterilize the jars properly before filling with jam to extend shelf life.
- A bit more lemon juice added if the jam is too sweet can balance the flavors.
- Reheating Instructions: If needed, reheat jam in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
- Serving Suggestions: Spread on toast or bagels.
- Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
- Pair with yogurt or oatmeal.
- Add to desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.
- Recipe Variations: You may add 1/2 cup of blueberries for a mixed fruit jam.
- Incorporate a vanilla bean for a richer flavor.
- A splash of bourbon can be substituted for a unique twist.
- Ingredient Notes: Choose fresh, ripe peaches for the most flavorful jam.
- If using frozen peaches, ensure they are fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the jam.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg