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Classic Peach Preserves Recipe

classic peach preserves - featured image

A slow, thoughtful recipe for homemade peach preserves infused with vanilla bean, capturing the essence of late summer with simple ingredients and a luscious texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean pod, split lengthwise
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prep the peaches by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer immediately to ice water to slip off the skins. Pit and chop into roughly 1/2-inch pieces.
  2. Split the vanilla bean pod lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Set seeds and pod aside.
  3. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, water, vanilla seeds, and pod. Stir gently to coat the fruit evenly.
  4. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 30-40 minutes until thickened and glossy.
  5. Test for set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape, it is done. Remove the vanilla pod before bottling.
  6. Ladle hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal tightly, and let cool at room temperature before refrigerating or processing for long-term storage.

Notes

Stir gently to keep preserves chunky and luscious. Do not rush removing the vanilla pod to allow full flavor infusion. Blanch peaches carefully to avoid mushiness. Use lemon juice to help preserves set firmly. For long-term storage, sterilize jars and process in a water bath. Refrigerate after opening and use within 3 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach preserves, homemade jam, vanilla bean, summer fruit preserves, easy peach jam, fruit preserves recipe