This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is the perfect treat for any occasion. With its sweet, spiced flavor, it brings summer’s freshness into your kitchen year-round. This filling is versatile, making it ideal for baking delicious pies, crisps, or cobblers. The water bath canning method ensures that you can savor the taste of ripe peaches even in winter months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can master this delicious filling.
- Versatile Usage: Use it for pies, crisps, or as a topping for ice cream and pancakes.
- Long Shelf Life: Canning allows you to enjoy the taste of summer peaches for up to a year.
- Natural Ingredients: Made with fresh peaches and no preservatives—just wholesome goodness.
- Perfectly Spiced: Optional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to the flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before we dive into our recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools for canning. The process not only preserves your peach filling but also ensures safety and quality.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Canning jars (quart-size)
- Water bath canner
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Canning jars: These are crucial for storing your peach pie filling safely. They create an airtight seal that preserves freshness.
- Water bath canner: This tool ensures even heat distribution during processing, which is vital for safe canning.
- Large pot: A must-have for cooking your filling base thoroughly. It helps prevent spills and allows ample space for stirring.
Ingredients
This homemade canned peach pie filling is a sweet, spiced preserve made with fresh peaches and a thick, silky base—perfect for baking pies, crisps, or cobblers year-round. With this easy water bath canning method, you can enjoy the flavor of summer peaches even in winter.
Ingredients (for 4–5 quarts)
6 quarts fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 24–30 medium peaches)
7 cups granulated sugar
2 cups cold water
1¾ cups clear jel (cook-type, not instant)
5¼ cups peach juice or water (from peaches or bottled)
½ cup bottled lemon juice
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional)
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
How to Make Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Step 1: Prepare Jars
Wash and sterilize 4–5 quart-size canning jars. Keep them warm until you’re ready to fill them.
Step 2: Prepare Peaches
Blanch the peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds before transferring them to an ice bath. Once cooled, peel, pit, and slice them. To prevent browning, soak slices in water mixed with lemon juice or ascorbic acid.
Step 3: Blanch Slices
Boil the sliced peaches in batches for 1 minute. Drain them carefully and keep warm while you prepare the filling.
Step 4: Make Filling Base
In a large pot, whisk together sugar and clear jel until well combined. Slowly stir in cold water followed by peach juice or water. Cook over medium-high heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles begin to form.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices
Stir in bottled lemon juice along with cinnamon and nutmeg if using. Boil this mixture for another minute.
Step 6: Add Peaches
Gently fold in the warm peach slices into the thickened mixture. Return it to a boil while stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 7: Fill Jars
Using a ladle, fill each warm jar with the hot peach filling while leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a spatula around inside edges of jars. Wipe rims clean before sealing with lids and bands.
Step 8: Process Jars
Place filled jars into your boiling water bath canner. Process them for about 30 minutes (adjust timing based on altitude if necessary).
Step 9: Cool and Store
Once processed, allow jars to sit undisturbed for about 12–24 hours before checking seals. Label jars and store them in a cool dark place where they will keep well for up to one year.
Enjoy your homemade canned peach pie filling whenever you want a taste of summer!
How to Serve Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Homemade canned peach pie filling is versatile and can elevate many dishes. Whether used in desserts or as a topping, this sweet preserve brings the taste of summer to your table year-round.
As a Pie Filling
- Use it in your favorite pie crust for a classic peach pie that’s perfect for any occasion.
In a Crisp or Crumble
- Layer the filling with oats, brown sugar, and butter for a delicious peach crisp that’s easy to make and delightful to eat.
Over Ice Cream
- Drizzle the warm peach filling over vanilla ice cream for a quick and tasty dessert.
In Pancakes or Waffles
- Use the filling as a topping for pancakes or waffles, adding sweetness and flavor to your breakfast.
Mixed into Yogurt
- Stir the peach pie filling into plain yogurt for a refreshing snack or breakfast option.
For Tarts or Galettes
- Spread the filling onto a pastry shell for an elegant tart or free-form galette that impresses guests.
How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
To ensure you create the best homemade canned peach pie filling, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve optimal flavor and consistency.
- Use ripe peaches: Selecting ripe peaches enhances the sweetness and flavor of your filling, making it taste fresh.
- Follow sterilization steps: Properly sterilize your jars to prevent spoilage and ensure food safety.
- Adjust spices to taste: While cinnamon and nutmeg are optional, feel free to adjust their amounts according to your preference.
- Check headspace: Leaving adequate headspace in jars during canning helps prevent spillage and ensures seals remain intact.
- Process correctly: Always follow recommended processing times based on your altitude for safe preservation.
- Store properly: Keep jars in a cool, dark place to maintain quality over time.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Pairing side dishes with homemade canned peach pie filling can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Savory Biscuits: Flaky biscuits offer a wonderful contrast when served alongside sweet peach filling.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich texture of mashed potatoes complements the sweetness of peaches perfectly.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: Fresh greens topped with grilled chicken pairs nicely with a drizzle of peach sauce.
- Spicy Roasted Vegetables: The heat from roasted vegetables balances well with the sweet peach flavor.
- Cornbread Muffins: Light and fluffy cornbread muffins serve as a great accompaniment that matches well with fruit fillings.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast, making it an excellent pairing with sweet flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making homemade canned peach pie filling, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure safety and quality. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping sterilization: Failing to properly sterilize jars can lead to unsafe conditions. Always wash and sterilize your jars before filling them.
- Using the wrong type of Clear Jel: Using instant Clear Jel instead of cook-type can affect the thickening process. Stick to cook-type Clear Jel for safe canning.
- Neglecting headspace: Not leaving enough headspace in jars can cause overflow during processing. Ensure to leave at least 1 inch of headspace for expansion.
- Ignoring acidity levels: Using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled lemon juice may not provide consistent acidity. Always use bottled lemon juice for safety.
- Skipping the boiling water bath: Not processing jars in a boiling water bath can lead to spoilage. Always follow proper water bath canning methods.
- Not checking seals: Failing to verify that jars are sealed correctly can lead to spoilage. Check seals after cooling and store only properly sealed jars.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store opened jars in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 1 week for best flavor and safety.
Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Use airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for storage.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 year. Label with date.
Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place filling in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about homemade canned peach pie filling:
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches if they are thawed and drained well before use.
How long does homemade canned peach pie filling last?
When stored properly, it can last up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.
What is the best way to use homemade canned peach pie filling?
It’s perfect for pies, cobblers, crisps, or as a topping for pancakes and ice cream!
Can I adjust the sweetness of the filling?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar amount according to your taste preferences.
Is it safe to double this recipe?
It’s best not to double recipes when canning as it may affect processing times and safety.
How should I store leftover filling after opening?
Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and consume within a week.
Final Thoughts
This homemade canned peach pie filling is a delightful way to preserve summer’s sweet bounty. Its versatility means you can use it in various desserts or simply enjoy it on its own. Don’t hesitate to customize it with additional spices or other fruit flavors!
Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling captures the essence of summer, allowing you to enjoy the sweet, spiced flavor of ripe peaches all year long. Perfect for baking or as a delightful topping, this versatile preserve is made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives, ensuring every bite is packed with wholesome goodness.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 32 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 quarts fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, sliced)
- 7 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups cold water
- 1¾ cups clear jel (cook-type)
- 5¼ cups peach juice or water
- ½ cup bottled lemon juice
- Optional: 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare jars by washing and sterilizing them; keep warm.
- Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds then transfer to an ice bath. Peel, pit, and slice.
- Boil sliced peaches for 1 minute and keep warm.
- In a large pot, whisk together sugar and clear jel; stir in cold water and peach juice. Cook until thickened.
- Add lemon juice and spices; boil for an additional minute.
- Fold in warm peach slices; bring back to a gentle boil.
- Fill jars with hot filling while leaving about 1 inch of headspace. Remove air bubbles, wipe rims, seal.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for about 30 minutes (adjust for altitude).
- Let jars cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours before checking seals.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
- Calories: 196
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg