Imagine capturing the essence of sun-ripened peaches in a jar, with a recipe so simple and delicious that you'll wonder why you've never made homemade jam before! This Quick Easy Peach Jam is your ticket to transforming fresh, juicy peaches into a luscious spread that will elevate your breakfast toast, tantalize your desserts, and impress everyone who tastes it. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, homemade delicacy that beats store-bought jam by miles.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 cups
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 packet fruit pectin
Instructions
- Prepare the peaches by washing, peeling, and removing the pits. Chop the peaches into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and smooth texture.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. The lemon juice will help preserve the bright color and add necessary acidity for proper jam setting.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and stir the mixture constantly to help the sugar dissolve and prevent burning.
- Sprinkle the fruit pectin evenly over the peach mixture, stirring thoroughly to prevent clumping and ensure even distribution.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently. A rolling boil means large bubbles that continue even while stirring.
- Continue boiling for approximately 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. The mixture will thicken and become glossy.
- To test jam readiness, perform a cold plate test: place a small plate in the freezer, drop a teaspoon of jam on the cold plate, and run a finger through it. If the jam wrinkles and doesn't immediately run back together, it's ready.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the jam sit for 2-3 minutes to allow initial cooling and further thickening.
- Carefully ladle the hot jam into clean, sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe jar rims clean, apply sterilized lids, and let jars cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.
- The jam will continue to set as it cools. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks.
Tips
- Choose ripe, fragrant peaches for the most intense flavor. The riper the fruit, the more natural sweetness your jam will have.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution.
- Keep a close eye on the jam while it's boiling and stir constantly to prevent scorching.
- The cold plate test is crucial - don't skip this step to ensure your jam sets properly.
- Sterilize your jars thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth and extend the jam's shelf life.
- If your jam doesn't set perfectly, don't worry! It can still be used as a delicious sauce for desserts or breakfast dishes.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the peaches before cooking or use an immersion blender.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
