Imagine the sweet, sun-kissed flavor of ripe peaches captured in a jar, ready to elevate your breakfast toast or dessert to a whole new level! This Homemade Peach Jam Without Pectin is not just a recipe; it's a delightful journey into the heart of summer, allowing you to savor the taste of fresh peaches all year round. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a luscious jam that’s free from artificial additives and packed with natural goodness. Ready to impress your family and friends with your jam-making skills? Let’s dive into this easy and rewarding recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 cups
Ingredients
- 4 cups ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the peaches by washing them thoroughly, then blanch in boiling water for 30-60 seconds to easily remove the skins. Transfer peaches to an ice bath immediately after blanching.
- Peel the peaches by gently sliding the skin off. Cut peaches in half, remove the pit, and chop into small, uniform pieces.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using). Stir to mix ingredients evenly.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, allowing the peaches to break down and the mixture to thicken. Use a potato masher to help break down larger peach pieces if desired.
- Cook the jam for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches the desired consistency. To test readiness, place a small amount on a chilled plate - it should wrinkle when pushed with a finger.
- Remove from heat and let the jam cool for 5-10 minutes. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Carefully transfer the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe jar rims clean before sealing.
- Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peaches: For the best flavor, use ripe, fragrant peaches. The sweeter the peaches, the better your jam will taste!
- Blanching Technique: Blanching the peaches not only makes peeling easier but also helps retain their vibrant color and flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your preference and the sweetness of the peaches. You can start with less sugar and add more if needed.
- Cinnamon Twist: Adding cinnamon is optional, but it can enhance the flavor profile of your jam. Experiment with a pinch to see if you like it!
- Testing Consistency: To ensure your jam has the right consistency, remember the chilled plate test. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready!
- Sterilize Your Jars: Make sure to sterilize your jars before filling them with jam to ensure longevity and prevent spoilage.
- Storage Tips: Store your jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks, or you can freeze it for longer preservation. Just make sure to leave some headspace in the jars if freezing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
