Old Fashioned Peach Preserves(These Are Very Good!)
Sweet and tangy peach preserves bursting with fresh fruit flavor, perfect for spreading on toast or gifting to loved ones during peach season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sliced, peeled peaches and sugar well in a large bowl.
- Let the mixture stand for 12 to 18 hours in a cool place, such as the refrigerator.
- Sterilize canning jars and lids.
- Begin cooking the peach mixture on medium heat until it reaches a boil.
- Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
- Boil gently until the fruit becomes clear and the syrup thickens.
- As the mixture thickens, continue stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Skim off foam if necessary.
- Pour hot preserves into hot sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims and place lids on the jars.
- Invert the jars and let them sit upside-down out of drafts for about 30 minutes.
- Set the jars upright and allow them to cool completely before storing.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your peach preserves, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon. If you have frozen peaches, they can be used as a substitute for fresh ones; just thaw and drain excess liquid. Remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired sweetness, and stir frequently to prevent the mixture from scorching.
Serving Suggestions
These peach preserves are perfect for spreading on toast or biscuits, and they can be used as a delightful topping for yogurt or ice cream. For a delicious pairing, serve with a slice of fresh bread or alongside a cheese platter. They also complement savory dishes, making a great accompaniment to grilled meats like Cajun Orange Roughy.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of peach preserves in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks. To reheat, simply spoon out the desired amount and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Peach Preserves(These Are Very Good!) 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 other fruits for preserves?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like apricots or plums to create different flavors. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose, and follow the same cooking process for best results.
How long do these preserves last?
When properly canned and sealed, these peach preserves can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store them in the refrigerator, and they should be consumed within 2-3 weeks for optimal freshness.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Reducing sugar will affect the gel and preservation quality of the preserves. If you wish to lower the sugar content, consider using a sugar substitute designed for canning or follow a specific low-sugar recipe like Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Jam for guidance.
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).