This Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe is the ticket to a summer-fresh burst of sunshine right on your breakfast toast. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated steps—it’s all about juicy peaches, a little sugar, and a touch of lemon coming together to make the most gloriously spoonable jam. Let’s walk through making pure peach magic, step by sweet step!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pure Peach Flavor: The short ingredient list lets sweet, juicy peaches truly shine in every bite.
- Ridiculously Simple: No pectin, no fuss—just classic, stovetop jam you’ll master on your very first try.
- Minimal Ingredients: You probably have everything you need right now!
- Versatile Treat: Spoon it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or dollop it onto pancakes and desserts—the uses are endless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This classic Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe proves that less is more—each ingredient brings something important to the party. Pick the freshest peaches you can, and you’re well on your way to truly spoonable heaven.
- Peaches (3 1/2 pounds, peeled, pitted, and chopped): Go for ripe, fragrant peaches for juicy flavor and gorgeous color—Freestone varieties make pitting a breeze.
- Sugar (2 1/2 cups): Not just for sweetness—it helps the jam set and boosts those lovely sunny peach notes.
- Lemon juice (from one lemon): Adds brightness and natural pectin, giving your jam that irresistible jammy texture.
Variations
Not only is this Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe delightfully straightforward, it also leaves plenty of room to get creative! Feel free to tweak and personalize it to suit your favorite flavors or dietary needs.
- Low-Sugar Version: Use less sugar—just know your jam may be a little looser, but the peach flavor is even more pronounced.
- Add Warm Spices: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or ginger while the jam simmers for a cozy, bakery-inspired twist.
- Mix with Other Fruit: Try a combo of peaches and raspberries or apricots for a fun fruity blend.
- Vanilla Peach Jam: Add a splash of vanilla extract off the heat for a mellow, dessert-worthy note.
How to Make Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Peaches
Start with beautifully ripe peaches—peel, pit, and chop them into uneven chunks (no need to be perfect!). If you want super-smooth jam, chop them smaller, but rustic pieces are just as lovely for a chunky jam.
Step 2: Cook the Peaches & Lemon Juice
Add the chopped peaches and lemon juice to a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a lively boil over medium-high heat. As it heats up, mash the peaches with a potato masher or sturdy spatula to your preferred texture—the more you mash, the smoother the jam!
Step 3: Add Sugar and Boil
Once everything is bubbling along, stir in the sugar. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil, stirring often so nothing sticks or burns—those caramelized bits are delicious, but we want a smooth, glossy jam.
Step 4: Simmer to Jammy Perfection
Keep boiling the peaches and sugar for about 15–25 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll know it’s ready when the bubbles look thick and the jam clings to your spoon when you tilt it. (Don’t worry, you can always simmer longer if it seems too loose after cooling!)
Step 5: Cool, Taste & Adjust Consistency
Let your jam cool off the heat. Check the consistency—if it’s still a little runny for your liking, just return it to the boil for another 5–10 minutes, then cool again. When it’s just right, it’s ready for jars, toast, or sneaking “just a taste” straight from the pan!
Pro Tips for Making Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe
- Pick Perfect Peaches: The best jam starts with ultra-ripe peaches with a fragrant aroma—a gentle squeeze should yield a bit, but they should still hold their shape after peeling.
- Master Your Consistency: For a thicker jam, simmer longer and test by placing a little on a cold plate—if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready!
- Stir, Stir, Stir: Frequent stirring prevents burning (especially toward the end) and ensures the jam cooks evenly from edge to center.
- Jar While Hot: For refrigerator or freezer jam, ladle into clean jars while warm and let cool before storing. No canner needed!
How to Serve Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Sometimes, a pretty garnish makes a spoonful of jam feel even more special! Sprinkle with feathery lemon zest or fresh mint for a pop of color and a burst of aromatic freshness—so simple, so delightful.
Side Dishes
This jam was born to brighten up all your breakfasts: think a thick slather on hot buttered toast, spooned over Greek yogurt, or generously piled on top of pancakes and waffles. It’s also amazing swirled into oatmeal or as a sweet counterpoint to sharp cheese on a snack board.
Creative Ways to Present
Decant your Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe into pretty glass jars and tie on a ribbon for a heartfelt homemade gift! Or, layer it in parfaits, use as a cake filling, or dollop onto scones for an afternoon tea spread that’ll leave everyone glowing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling, pop your jam into clean jars and keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Each spoonful will stay luscious—just be sure to use a fresh spoon to keep it at its best.
Freezing
This jam freezes like a dream! Leave a little space at the top of your container for expansion, and freeze for up to 6 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge—summer flavor awaits, even in the depths of winter.
Reheating
If you prefer your Peach Jam gently warmed for pancakes or drizzle-worthy desserts, microwave it in 10-second bursts or heat gently over low heat on the stove. Stir well and enjoy that glossy, just-made texture!
FAQs
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Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen peaches! Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before starting. The end result will still be delicious, though the texture might be slightly softer compared to using fresh peaches.
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What if my peach jam doesn’t set?
If your Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe turns out a bit runny, simply return it to the heat and simmer for another 5–10 minutes. You can also test the set with the “cold plate method”: place a spoonful of hot jam on a chilled plate, let it cool, and push it with your finger—if it wrinkles, it’s ready!
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Is this recipe safe for water bath canning?
This Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe can be processed in a water bath canner if you’d like to store it at room temperature for several months. Be sure to follow proper canning procedures and guidelines for sterilizing jars and processing times for your altitude.
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Can I double this recipe?
You can double the recipe, but for the best results and easiest set, cook it in two separate batches. Too much fruit in the pot at once can make it harder for the jam to cook down and gel evenly.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made jam before, the Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe will win you over with its simplicity and irresistible flavor. Grab those summer peaches, channel your inner kitchen alchemist, and share a jar (or two!) with someone you love—it’s pure joy in every spoonful.
PrintEasy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 4 cups 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
Description
This Easy Homemade Peach Jam recipe is a delightful way to preserve the fresh flavor of ripe peaches. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a sweet and tangy jam perfect for spreading on toast or using in various recipes.
Ingredients
Peach Jam:
- 3 1/2 pounds peaches (1 lb = 3 to 4 medium peaches), peeled, pitted, and cut into chunks
- 2 1/2 cups sugar (adjust to taste)
- Juice from one lemon
Instructions
- Add peaches and lemon juice: In a medium saucepan, combine peaches and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, crushing the peaches to your preferred consistency.
- Reduce heat and add sugar: Reduce to medium heat and stir in the sugar. Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil, stirring frequently.
- Boil and stir: Cook the peaches until they reduce and reach your desired jam consistency, about 15 to 25 minutes. The jam should stick to a spoon when lifted and turned sideways.
- Cool the jam: Let the peach preserves cool. If the jam is not at the desired consistency, you can reboil the peaches for about 10 minutes, then cool again.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg