Old-Fashioned Peach Preserves
Sweet, fragrant peach preserves with a rich, thick syrup, perfect for spreading on toast or baking. Ideal for summer fruit lovers and preserving enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sliced, peeled peaches and sugar; let stand 12 to 18 hours in a cool place.
- Bring the mixture slowly to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Boil gently until the fruit becomes clear and the syrup thickens, about 40 minutes.
- As the mixture thickens, stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Skim if necessary.
- Pour boiling hot preserves into jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Adjust lids on the jars.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use ripe, hard peaches; they hold their shape better and release less juice. If you want to reduce the sugar, consider using a sugar substitute specifically designed for canning. Always taste the mixture as it cooks, and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can mash the peaches slightly before cooking. This recipe pairs beautifully with Florida Citrus Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Old-Fashioned Peach Preserves are perfect for spreading on toast or biscuits. They also make a delightful addition to yogurt or oatmeal. For a unique twist, try using them as a filling for pastries or as a topping for vanilla ice cream. These preserves complement savory dishes well, such as Pork Tenderloin or alongside Mushroom Sauce Green Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of peach preserves in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate the preserves and consume within a few weeks. For the best flavor, enjoy the preserves at room temperature or lightly warmed. Avoid microwaving directly as it can create hot spots; instead, place a jar in a bowl of warm water for gentle reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Peach Preserves contains roughly 792 calories, with 10g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (152% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 21g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ensure they are thawed, sliced, and drained of excess liquid before mixing with sugar. This will help maintain the right consistency in your preserves.
How can I tell when the preserves are ready?
The preserves are ready when the fruit appears clear and the syrup has thickened. You can also test by placing a small amount on a cold plate; if it holds its shape and doesn't run, it's done.
What if my preserves are too thick?
If your preserves are too thick after processing, you can gently reheat them and add a small amount of water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate the water without compromising the flavor.
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).