Brandied Peaches
Brandied peaches are a luscious preserved fruit treat, combining the natural sweetness of peaches with warm spices and the rich depth of brandy. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a dessert topping, this recipe offers a delightful balance of fruity, spicy, and boozy flavors that appeal to fruit lovers and festive hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare the peaches.
- Insert 2 cloves into each whole peach.
- Make a syrup by combining the sugar and water and bringing to a boil.
- Add the beaten egg white to the syrup and skim off the froth.
- Add the peaches to the syrup, one layer at a time, and boil for 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat.
- Add the white brandy to the mixture.
- Pour the peaches and syrup into sterilized jars and seal immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose ripe but firm peaches to prevent mushiness during cooking. If you don't have egg whites, you can skip this step, but they help create a clearer syrup. You can also use other fruits like pears or apricots as a substitute for peaches. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Brandied peaches are delightful when served over vanilla ice cream or with a slice of pound cake. They can also complement a cheese platter or be used as a topping for pancakes or waffles. For a unique twist, try them alongside Doctor Bird Cake for a delicious dessert pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of brandied peaches in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to maintain the syrup's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brandied Peaches contains roughly 2574 calories, with 47g protein, 563g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (443% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2036mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but thaw them and drain excess liquid before starting. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly from fresh peaches, but they will still taste great in the syrup.
How long do the brandied peaches last?
If properly sealed in sterilized jars, the brandied peaches can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks for the best quality.
What can I do with leftover syrup?
The leftover syrup can be used to sweeten beverages like iced tea or cocktails. You can also drizzle it over yogurt or oatmeal for added flavor. Additionally, consider using it in recipes for cakes or marinades.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).