Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This peach butter is a fantastic way to enjoy the peak of peach season all year round. By concentrating the flavors of fresh peaches, you get a luscious, spreadable preserve that’s perfect for a variety of uses. The recipe is simple, and the result is a jar of homemade goodness that can be enjoyed with breakfast, snacks, or desserts. It’s an excellent way to preserve peaches, and it’s incredibly versatile.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 – 4½ pounds peaches (about 14-18 medium)
- ½ cup water
- 4 cups granulated sugar
Directions
- Wash the peaches by rubbing them with your hands under cool, running water.
- Blanch the peaches in boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds. Transfer them immediately to a bowl of cold water.
- Peel the skins off the peaches and remove the pits.
- Cut the peaches into chunks and add them with ½ cup of water to a large saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the peaches are soft.
- Puree the peach mixture using a food processor, immersion blender, or food mill.
- Measure 2 quarts of the peach puree into the saucepan and add the sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the peach butter thickens. Test by placing a spoonful on a plate. If it holds its shape, it's ready.
- Pour the hot peach butter into prepared jars, leaving ¼ inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims and seal with lids.
- Enjoy immediately or process in a water bath for long-term storage.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 8 half-pint jars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Additional Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Add apples or pears to the peach mixture for added sweetness and texture if you have fewer peaches.
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor (½-1 tsp. is plenty).
Storage/Reheating
- Store peach butter in the refrigerator for up to 1 month after opening.
- It can be frozen for up to 6 months.
- If canned properly, it will last up to 18 months in a cool, dry place.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, frozen peaches will work, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before using.
2. How can I tell when the peach butter is thick enough?
The peach butter is done when it holds its shape on a spoon. If it runs off the edges, cook it a little longer.
3. Can I add spices to the peach butter?
Yes, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg complement peaches well. Use small amounts to avoid overpowering the peach flavor.
4. How do I can peach butter for long-term storage?
After cooking, pour the peach butter into hot, sterilized jars and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
5. How long will peach butter last?
When canned properly, peach butter can last up to 18 months in a cool, dry place. Refrigerate after opening.
6. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but it may affect the thickness and sweetness of the final product.
7. Can I use a slow cooker to make peach butter?
Yes, you can cook the peaches in a slow cooker on low for several hours until they reach the desired consistency.
8. Can I make this recipe with other fruits?
Yes, you can use other fruits like pears or apples in place of some of the peaches.
9. What’s the best way to use peach butter?
Peach butter is perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, pancakes, or waffles.
10. How do I freeze peach butter?
Simply place the peach butter in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 6 months.
Conclusion
Peach butter is a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant taste of fresh peaches year-round. With its sweet, smooth consistency, it makes a perfect topping for bread, pastries, or even as a gift for loved ones. This recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent way to preserve the fruit of the season.
Peach Butter Recipe
This homemade peach butter recipe is a delicious, spreadable preserve made by slowly cooking fresh peaches to enhance their natural sweetness. It’s the perfect way to preserve summer peaches and enjoy their vibrant flavor year-round. Spread this smooth and rich peach butter on toast, muffins, pancakes, and more. Simple to make and incredibly versatile, this homemade peach butter also makes a fantastic gift!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Additional Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 half-pint jars
- Category: Spread, Preserves
- Method: Stovetop, Canning
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 – 4½ pounds peaches (about 14-18 medium)
- ½ cup water
- 4 cups granulated sugar
Instructions
- Wash the peaches under cool, running water and rub the skins gently.
- Blanch the peaches in boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds, then transfer them immediately to a bowl of cold water.
- Peel the skins off the peaches and remove the pits.
- Cut the peaches into chunks and add them to a large saucepan with ½ cup of water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the peaches become soft.
- Puree the peach mixture using a food processor, immersion blender, or food mill.
- Measure 2 quarts of the peach puree into the saucepan and add the sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the peach butter thickens. You can test the thickness by placing a spoonful on a plate – if it holds its shape, it’s ready.
- Pour the hot peach butter into prepared jars, leaving ¼ inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims and seal with lids.
- Enjoy immediately or process in a water bath for long-term storage.
Notes
- If you have fewer peaches, add apples or pears to the peach mixture for added sweetness and texture.
- For extra flavor, consider experimenting with spices like cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg (½-1 tsp. should suffice).
- Store in the fridge for up to 1 month after opening or freeze for up to 6 months. Canned peach butter can last up to 18 months in a cool, dry place.
