This easy homemade peach jam only needs three simple ingredients: fresh peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. It’s a sweet and fruity treat that brightens up toast or pancakes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for great flavor! Look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch. If you can’t find fresh peaches, frozen peaches can work too; just make sure they are thawed and drained first.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the best choice for sweetening. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use honey or maple syrup, but the texture and sweetness might slightly vary. Adjust based on your taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors and helps with preservation. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be a good substitute, though fresh is always preferable for the best taste.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Jam Consistency?
The key to a great jam is achieving the right thickness. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the mixture on medium heat until it boils to activate the sugar.
- Once simmering, reduce heat to low and keep stirring frequently.
- Check the consistency after about 30 minutes; it should coat the back of a spoon.
- Use the cold plate test: drop a small amount on a chilled plate, and if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s done!
Patience is key! Don’t rush the simmering process for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your peach jam on toast, pancakes, or even as a topping for yogurt!
Easy Homemade Peach Jam Recipe With 3 Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook. You’ll have sweet and delicious peach jam ready in less than an hour, plus some cooling time before you can store it. Total time is approximately 1 hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by washing your fresh peaches. Carefully peel the skin off, then cut them in half and remove the pits. Chop the peaches into small pieces and set them aside. This will make it easier for them to break down when cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped peaches, granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together until the sugar begins to dissolve. This mixture will become juicy as the peaches release their natural sugars.
3. Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the jam simmer gently, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Keep an eye on it for about 30-40 minutes until it thickens.
4. Check for Doneness:
To see if your jam is ready, use the chilled plate test. Take a small spoonful of the jam and place it on a plate that you’ve kept in the freezer. Push it gently with your finger; if it wrinkles slightly, it’s done! If not, keep simmering and check again after a few minutes.
5. Jar the Jam:
Once the jam has reached your desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the jam to cool for a few minutes. Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, sealing them tightly. Let them cool completely on the counter before transferring to the refrigerator.
6. Enjoy!
Your homemade peach jam is now ready to enjoy! Spread it on toast, pancakes, or use it in your favorite desserts. Share with friends or keep it all for yourself—either way, it’s delicious!
Short FAQ for Easy Homemade Peach Jam
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before chopping. This will help maintain the right consistency for your jam.
How Long Can I Store the Peach Jam?
Your homemade peach jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the jam using proper canning techniques to extend its shelf life to 1 year.
Can I Adjust the Amount of Sugar?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam, but keep in mind that sugar also helps with preservation and the jam’s texture. Start by reducing it by 1/4 cup and adjust according to taste!
What If My Jam Isn’t Thickening?
If your jam isn’t thickening after the cooking time, simmer it a bit longer. Make sure to keep stirring to prevent sticking. Remember the cold plate test: if it doesn’t wrinkle, give it another 5-10 minutes on the heat!
