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Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe for Small Batch Canning Tips

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A simple and quick recipe for making small batches of delicious homemade peach jam, perfect for preserving the fresh flavor of summer peaches without overwhelming quantities.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
  • 1 to cups (200250 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fruit pectin (optional)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peaches by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer to ice water to slip off the skins easily. Pit and chop peaches into roughly ½-inch pieces.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and water. If using pectin, mix it with a couple tablespoons of sugar first to prevent clumping, then add to the pot.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring regularly and gently mashing some peaches if a less chunky texture is desired.
  4. Test the jam set by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it is ready. If not, continue simmering and test every 5 minutes.
  5. Sterilize jars and lids by boiling for 10 minutes or using a dishwasher sanitize cycle. Keep jars warm until filling.
  6. Using a ladle and funnel, pour hot jam into warm jars, leaving about ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean.
  7. Screw on lids firmly but not overly tight. Let jars cool at room temperature overnight until sealed.
  8. Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening and use within 3 weeks.

Notes

Blanch peaches for easy peeling. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Test jam set with cold plate method. Pectin is optional but helps jam set faster. Adjust sugar based on peach sweetness. Sterilize jars properly to prevent spoilage. Jam thickens more after cooling and may improve in flavor after a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach jam, homemade jam, small batch canning, easy peach jam, fruit preserves, summer recipes, jam recipe