Country Peach Preserves 🍑

Making homemade peach preserves is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of ripe summer peaches throughout the year. Here’s a recipe for Country Peach Preserves that you can easily prepare:

Country Peach Preserves

Ingredients:

• 8 cups peeled, pitted, and chopped ripe peaches (about 10-12 medium peaches)
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the peaches:
   • Wash and peel the peaches. Cut them in half, remove the pits, and then chop the peaches into small pieces.
2. Cook the peaches:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, and lemon juice.
   • Stir well to combine and let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to release from the peaches.
3. Bring to a boil:
   • Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the peach mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar.
4. Simmer:<!–nextpage–>
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook the preserves uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the mixture thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during cooking.
5. Test for doneness:
   • To test if the preserves are ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and tilt the plate. If it is thick and doesn’t run, it’s done.
6. Add vanilla extract (optional):
   • If using vanilla extract, stir it into the preserves after removing them from heat.
7. Can or store the preserves:
   • While the preserves are still hot, carefully ladle them into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
   • Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth, place sterilized lids and rings on the jars, and tighten.
8. Process (optional):<!–nextpage–>
   • If you want to store the preserves at room temperature, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Otherwise, store them in the refrigerator once cooled.
9. Cool and store:
   • Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed jars can be stored for up to 1 year.

Tips:

• Choose ripe but firm peaches for the best flavor and texture in your preserves.
• You can customize the preserves by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or a splash of bourbon for extra flavor.
• Enjoy these peach preserves on toast, biscuits, yogurt, ice cream, or as a filling for pastries and cakes.

Homemade Country Peach Preserves are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fresh peaches in a jar. They make a wonderful gift and are perfect for enjoying the taste of summer all year round.