Peach Jam

This homemade Peach Jam is a simple, delicious treat that captures the essence of fresh peaches in every spoonful. Made with just peaches, sugar, and lemon juice—no pectin needed—it’s quick, easy, and bursting with natural peach flavor. Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to pastries, or gifting to friends and family, this jam is a must-try for peach lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Peach Jam is the perfect way to preserve the sweetness of fresh peaches without needing any complicated ingredients like pectin. The natural sweetness of the peaches is balanced with a touch of sugar and the bright acidity of lemon juice, creating a jam that’s just the right amount of tangy and sweet. Whether you spread it on your morning toast, drizzle it over ice cream, or pair it with your favorite pastries, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for long-lasting enjoyment.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds peaches (about 5 medium peaches)

• 1 cup granulated sugar (or more, to taste)

• 1 tablespoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice (juice from about ½ a lemon)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Peel, pit, and finely dice the peaches. To easily peel peaches, blanch them in boiling water for 60 seconds, then run them under cold water for 1-2 minutes. Score the skin with a knife to start, and it should peel off easily.

2. In a large saucepan, combine the peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. Slightly mash the peaches with a potato masher if you prefer a smoother jam.

3. Place the pan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to boil.

4. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue simmering, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the jam thickens and reaches 210-220°F, or passes the plate test (see note on the plate test below). It will continue to thicken as it cools.

5. Remove from heat and carefully transfer to clean jars. Allow to cool completely before placing on the lids. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Peach and Vanilla Jam: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the jam once it’s removed from the heat for a fragrant, warm flavor.

• Spicy Peach Jam: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to give your jam a spicy twist.

• Peach-Mango Jam: Mix in diced mango for a tropical flavor and a little extra sweetness.

• Peach-Lavender Jam: Infuse the jam with a little dried lavender for a floral note. Simply add the lavender to the pan at the start and strain it out before transferring to jars.

Storage/Reheating

This Peach Jam can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or frozen for longer storage. To freeze, pour the jam into freezer-safe jars or containers, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes. Let the jam thaw in the fridge before using. Since this jam doesn’t contain pectin, it’s a bit runnier than store-bought jams, so be sure to store it in a way that’s easy to spoon or spread.

FAQs

1. Do I have to peel the peaches?

Peeling the peaches helps give the jam a smooth texture. However, if you don’t mind a bit of texture, you can leave the skins on.

2. How do I know when the jam is thick enough?

You can test the consistency by placing a spoonful of jam on a cold plate. Run your finger through it—if it wrinkles and doesn’t run back together, the jam is done. Alternatively, you can use a thermometer; the jam should reach 210-220°F.

3. Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes, frozen peaches will work, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before making the jam.

4. Can I make this jam without sugar?

While sugar helps preserve the jam, you can reduce or replace it with honey or another sweetener. Keep in mind that the jam may not set as firmly without sugar.

5. Can I double or triple the recipe?

Yes, you can easily scale this recipe to make larger batches. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re making a much larger batch.

6. How long will the jam last?

When stored in the fridge, this jam will last up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 6 months.

7. What is the “plate test” for jam?

The plate test is a way to check the consistency of your jam. After placing a spoonful of jam on a cold plate, allow it to cool for a few seconds. Run your finger through the jam—if it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready.

8. Can I make this jam in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make peach jam in a slow cooker. Just combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally until it thickens.

9. Can I add other fruits to this jam?

Yes, you can mix in other fruits like berries or apples to create a mixed-fruit jam.

10. Can I can this jam for long-term storage?

Yes, you can process the jars in a water bath for 10-15 minutes to seal them for long-term storage. Follow standard canning procedures to ensure a proper seal.

Conclusion

This homemade Peach Jam is a delightful treat that brings out the natural sweetness of peaches. With just three simple ingredients and no pectin needed, you can easily create a jam that’s perfect for toast, pastries, or even as a thoughtful gift. Whether you’re using fresh summer peaches or preserving the flavors of the season, this jam is sure to be a favorite in your kitchen!

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