Learn how to make delicious chunky peach preserves from scratch. This recipe is perfect for capturing the taste of summer.
Author:Sasha Nguyen
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 30 minutes
Yield:Approximately 4-5 half-pint jars
Category:Preserves
Method:Water Bath Canning
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 pounds ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
4 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
Instructions
Combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and ginger (if using) in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
Stir well to combine. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to allow the peaches to release their juices.
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally.
Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the preserves thicken and reach a gel-like consistency. This can take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
Test for doneness by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; it should mound up and not spread.
Carefully ladle the hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
Wipe the rims of the jars clean and secure the lids.
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Remove jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a towel-lined counter.
Check the seals; if a lid doesn’t flex when pressed, the jar is properly sealed.
Notes
Using ripe, but firm, peaches will give you the best texture.
Adjust sugar to your preference, but remember sugar acts as a preservative.
For a smoother texture, you can mash some of the peaches with a potato masher while cooking.
Ensure your jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.