Name: Freezer Peach Jam
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups peaches (peeled, pitted, and chopped (about 2 pounds fully ripe peaches)); 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (fresh); 4 ½ cups sugar (granulated); 1 (1.75-ounce) box fruit pectin (powdered, regular, not instant); ⅔ cup water

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Every summer, as the sun warms the earth and the trees overflow with ripe fruit, I find myself drawn to making Freezer Peach Jam. It’s a cherished tradition in my home. The scent of fresh, juicy peaches brings back memories of lazy afternoons spent gathering fruit and laughing with friends and family. This jam captures that essence, transforming fresh peaches into a vibrant, sweet spread that brightens any breakfast or snack. When you open a jar of this homemade jam in the depths of winter, you can’t help but smile at the taste of summer. Making Freezer Peach Jam is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to preserve the bounty of the season.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
100 kcal

Protein:
0g g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
0g g

Tools Used:
6 half-pint containers

Why We Love This Freezer Peach Jam

It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

What I love most about Freezer Peach Jam is how simple it is. With just a few ingredients, you can create something so delightful. You don’t need any fancy equipment or special skills, just some ripe peaches, sugar, and fruit pectin. Even if you’ve never made jam before, you can do this!

Perfect for Summer Gatherings

This jam is not just a recipe; it’s a staple at summer gatherings. Whether it’s slathered on warm bread at brunch or served with cheese at a picnic, Freezer Peach Jam brings a touch of elegance and joy to any occasion. People will rave about it, and you’ll love being able to share something homemade.

Preserving Memories

Making this jam is like bottling up summer. Each jar is a reminder of those sunny days. When you taste it months later, you’re transported back to those moments. It’s a personal, nostalgic experience that makes every spoonful special.

A Versatile Treat

Another reason to love Freezer Peach Jam is its versatility. Not only is it perfect on toast, but it can also be used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or even in savory dishes. The possibilities are endless!

Great for Gifting

Homemade jam makes a lovely gift. You can package it beautifully in jars and give it to friends, family, or neighbors. It’s a heartfelt gesture that shows you care, and everyone appreciates receiving something made with love.

Ingredients Required for Freezer Peach Jam

When making Freezer Peach Jam, the ingredients are simple yet impactful. The key players in this recipe are fresh peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and fruit pectin. Together, they create a balance of sweetness and tartness that enhances the natural flavors of the peaches. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect jam consistency while preserving the delicious taste of summer.

3 cups peeled, pitted, and chopped peaches (about 2 pounds fully ripe peaches) – These are the star of the show! The fresher the fruit, the better your jam will taste.
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice – This adds a lovely brightness and balances the sweetness of the peaches.
4 ½ cups granulated sugar – Essential for sweetness and helps with the jam’s preservation.
1 (1.75-ounce) box powdered fruit pectin (regular, not instant) – This helps the jam set properly.
⅔ cup water – Used to dissolve the pectin before mixing it with the peaches.

The Process for Making Freezer Peach Jam

Making Freezer Peach Jam is an enjoyable and rewarding process. You’ll find that with each step, the anticipation builds as the sweet aroma fills your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious jam!

Prep the containers: Start by rinsing 6 half-pint containers and their lids with boiling water. This sanitizes them and ensures that your jam will stay fresh. After rinsing, dry them thoroughly to avoid any water mixed into your jam.
Prepare the peaches: In a blender, pulse the 3 cups of peaches about 5 to 10 times until well pureed. You want a smooth consistency, but a few small chunks are perfectly fine for texture.
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, pour in the pureed peaches and stir in 2 Tablespoons of lemon juice and 4 ½ cups of sugar. Mix until well combined. The sugar may take a little time to dissolve, so be patient. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld.
Prepare the pectin: In a small saucepan, mix the fruit pectin and 2/3 cup of water. Stirring constantly, bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, which should take about a minute. This step is crucial as it activates the pectin.
Combine everything: Pour the hot pectin mixture over the peach mixture and stir it well. You’ll notice the texture change as it thickens slightly.
Let it rest: Allow the mixture to rest for about 3 minutes. This helps with the setting process.
Fill the containers: Carefully pour the jam into your prepared containers, leaving about ½ inch from the top. This space is essential to allow for expansion when freezing. Wipe off any excess jam from the edges to ensure a good seal.
Seal the jars: Immediately place the lids on top of the containers. This keeps your jam fresh by preventing air from getting in.
Setting time: Let the containers sit at room temperature for 24 hours so the jam can set properly. This step is vital for the jam to thicken and develop its flavor.
Storage: After 24 hours, refrigerate the jam for up to 3 weeks or store it in the freezer for up to one year. Enjoy the taste of summer all year round!

Things Worth Knowing

Use ripe peaches: The best flavor comes from using fully ripe peaches. Underripe fruit won’t yield the same sweetness and fragrance.
Adjusting sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but keep in mind that it may affect the setting.
Thickening issues: If your jam doesn’t set properly, consider adding a bit more pectin next time or ensure you boil it correctly.
Flavor variations: You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to enjoy and adapt Freezer Peach Jam. Here are some tips to personalize your jam-making experience:

Storage: Make sure to label your containers with the date you made the jam to keep track of its freshness.
Freezing: If you plan to freeze your jam, use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This jam pairs beautifully with cream cheese on crackers or even as a topping for pancakes.
Variations: Try mixing in other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a mixed fruit jam.
Gift Ideas: Consider giving jars of your homemade jam as gifts, especially around the holidays!

How to Serve Freezer Peach Jam

Serving Freezer Peach Jam can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Here are some ideas to elevate your jam experience:

Breakfast Delight: Spread it generously on warm toast or bagels for a perfect breakfast treat.
Brunch Bars: Serve alongside cream cheese and biscuits for a delightful brunch spread.
Snack Time: Pair it with cheese and crackers for a quick snack or appetizer.
Dessert Topping: Use it as a topping for ice cream or pancakes to add a fruity twist.
Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy it during summer picnics or winter gatherings to remind you of sunny days.
Gift Options: Given its vibrant color and taste, this jam makes a beautiful gift in decorative jars.

FAQ

Freezer Peach Jam can last for 3 weeks in the refrigerator or up to a year in the freezer. Always make sure your jars are sealed properly to maintain freshness.

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before blending. However, fresh peaches will yield the best flavor!

You can reduce the sugar in Freezer Peach Jam, but it may affect the taste and preservation qualities. Keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative and helps the jam set, so you might need to adjust the cooking times as well.

If you have leftover jam, you can use it as a topping for yogurt, mix it into smoothies, or use it in baking for a fruity twist. It can also be a delicious glaze for meats or drizzled over cheese.

Conclusion

Freezer Peach Jam is truly special; it captures the essence of summer and can be enjoyed throughout the year. I encourage you to try making this delightful jam at home!