Peach Jam Recipe

Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe (No Pectin)

This Homemade Peach Jam recipe is a simple and delicious way to preserve the flavor of fresh peaches. With no added pectin, this recipe relies on the natural pectin in peaches and lemon juice to set the jam, resulting in a sweet, fruity spread that’s perfect for toast, biscuits, or even as a topping for desserts.

Ingredients: Simple and Natural

• Peaches (3½ pounds): The star of the show, these should be ripe and juicy for the best flavor. You’ll need about 10-12 medium peaches. Peel, pit, and cut them into chunks before starting.
• Sugar (2½ cups): Sugar is essential not just for sweetness but also for helping the jam set. You can adjust the sugar level slightly, but too little might prevent the jam from gelling properly.
• Lemon Juice (Juice from one lemon): Lemon juice is naturally high in pectin and helps the jam set. It also adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the peaches.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Peaches

Begin by peeling, pitting, and cutting the peaches into chunks. You can peel the peaches by blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transferring them to an ice bath. The skins should slip off easily.

2. Cook the Peaches

Place the prepared peaches and the lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, using a spatula or a masher to crush the peaches as they cook to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother jam, mash the peaches more thoroughly; for a chunkier jam, leave some larger pieces.

3. Add the Sugar

Once the peaches have reached a boil, reduce the heat to medium. Gradually add the sugar to the peach mixture, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar. Bringing the mixture to a full rolling boil ensures that the sugar integrates well and the flavors meld together.

4. Boil and Thicken the Jam

Continue boiling the peach mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This process usually takes 15 to 25 minutes. You’ll know the jam is ready when it sticks to the spoon when lifted and turned sideways. If the jam isn’t as thick as you’d like after cooling, you can return it to the stove and boil it for an additional 10 minutes.

5. Cool and Store

Once the jam has reached your preferred consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool. After cooling, transfer the jam to sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. Close the jars with lids and store them in the refrigerator for immediate use, or use a water bath canning method for long-term storage.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Peach Jam

1. Checking the Jam’s Set Point: To test if your jam is ready, place a small plate in the freezer before you start cooking. When you’re ready to test, drop a spoonful of jam onto the cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, the jam is set.
2. Adjusting the Sugar: You can start with less sugar and add more as needed, but avoid reducing it too much as sugar is critical for setting the jam and preserving it. Taste as you go, and adjust to your preference.
3. Consistency Control: The longer you cook the jam, the thicker it will become. If you prefer a thinner, more syrup-like jam, reduce the cooking time slightly. For a thicker, more spreadable jam, cook longer.
4. Sterilizing Jars: If you plan to store the jam for an extended period, make sure to sterilize your jars before filling them. You can do this by boiling the jars and lids in water for 10 minutes, then letting them air dry on a clean towel.

Creative Uses for Peach Jam

This peach jam is incredibly versatile and can be used in many ways beyond just spreading on toast:

• Dessert Topping: Drizzle the jam over vanilla ice cream, pound cake, or cheesecake for a sweet, fruity topping.
• Glaze for Meats: Use the jam as a glaze for grilled chicken, pork, or even ham. Mix it with a little mustard or vinegar for a savory-sweet glaze.
• Filling for Pastries: Use the jam as a filling for homemade pastries, such as turnovers, tarts, or thumbprint cookies.
• Yogurt or Oatmeal: Stir a spoonful of peach jam into your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Gift Idea: Homemade peach jam makes a thoughtful gift. Decorate the jars with a ribbon and a label, and share with friends and family.

Customizing Your Peach Jam

This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Here are a few ideas to customize your peach jam:

1. Spiced Peach Jam: Add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or a pinch of nutmeg to the jam as it cooks for a warm, spiced flavor.
2. Ginger Peach Jam: Grate fresh ginger into the jam during cooking for a zingy, aromatic twist.
3. Peach and Berry Jam: Mix in other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a mixed fruit jam.
4. Vanilla Peach Jam: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or scrape in the seeds from a vanilla bean after removing the jam from heat for a rich, fragrant flavor.

Storing and Preserving Your Jam

Proper storage ensures your homemade peach jam stays fresh and delicious for months:

• Refrigeration: Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure the jars are sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the jam. Use freezer-safe jars, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
• Canning: If you want to store the jam at room temperature, use a water bath canning method. This involves processing the filled jars in boiling water for about 10 minutes to create a vacuum seal. Properly canned jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content of this peach jam, per tablespoon serving:

• Calories: 53
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g

This jam is a sweet treat that’s relatively low in calories, making it a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer without too much guilt.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Peach Jam is a fantastic way to capture the taste of fresh peaches in a jar. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a versatile jam that’s perfect for breakfast, baking, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you’re an experienced canner or new to making jams, this recipe is approachable and yields delicious results every time. Enjoy the taste of summer all year long with this delightful peach jam!