The Best Homemade Peach Jam Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making your own peach jam is a simple way to capture the sweet taste of summer in a jar. This recipe is easy to follow, and the results are absolutely worth it. First, you’ll love that it’s made with fresh, juicy peaches, giving it a natural sweetness that store-bought versions just can’t match. Second, it’s versatile—spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a topping for desserts. Finally, the process is fun and satisfying, making it a great activity to share with family or friends.
Recipe
Peaches are a summer favorite, and turning them into homemade jam is a delicious way to preserve their sweet flavor. This simple peach jam recipe requires minimal ingredients and delivers a rich, fruity spread perfect for toast, pastries, or desserts.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups peeled, pitted, and finely chopped peaches
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using). Stir well and let sit for 30 minutes to allow the peaches to release their juices.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens. To test for doneness, place a small amount on a chilled plate—if it gels and doesn’t run, it’s ready.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Skim off any foam if needed.
- Transfer the jam to sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Seal and process in a water bath for 10 minutes if canning, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Notes:
- For a smoother texture, mash the peaches lightly with a potato masher before cooking.
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the peaches.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized jars with lids
- Water bath canner (optional)
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 2 cups.
Nutrition
Peach jam is a delicious spread that can be enjoyed on toast, pastries, or as a topping. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 tablespoon):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 0mg |
| Total Carbs | 13g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 0g |
What To Serve With It
I love spreading my homemade peach jam on warm toast or a fresh bagel—it’s such a simple, satisfying treat. For something fancier, I pair it with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which balance the jam’s sweetness perfectly. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong with these combos.
Toast and Bagels
When it comes to enjoying homemade peach jam, there’s nothing quite like spreading it on freshly toasted bread or a warm, chewy bagel. I love how the jam melts slightly into the crispy toast, making each bite a mix of sweet and comforting. A plain or whole-grain bagel works wonders too, letting the peach flavor shine without overpowering it. Sometimes, I’ll toast my bread just enough to give it a bit of crunch, but not so much that it loses its softness underneath. It’s amazing how something so simple can feel so indulgent and satisfying with homemade jam.
Cheese Pairings
Though peach jam is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right cheese can take it to a whole new level. I love spreading it over creamy brie—the sweetness balances the tang perfectly. For a sharper contrast, try aged cheddar; its bold flavor stands up to the jam’s fruity notes. Goat cheese adds a delightful earthiness, while mascarpone turns it into a luxurious dessert. Don’t forget a crusty baguette or crackers for crunch! Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, these combos make every bite special. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll never enjoy peach jam alone again.
