Making peach jam at home is a fun and easy way to enjoy fresh peaches all year.
This guide will show you simple steps to can peach jam safely.
We will use easy words and short sentences. Let’s start!
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What You Need for Peach Jam
Before we begin, gather these ingredients:
- 4 cups peeled and chopped fresh peaches
- 3 cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 package powdered fruit pectin (about 1.75 oz)
Also, you will need some equipment:
- Large pot for cooking jam
- Water bath canner or large deep pot
- Clean glass jars with lids and rings
- Jar lifter and funnel
- Large spoon or ladle
Step 1: Prepare Your Peaches
Wash the peaches well under cold water.
Remove the skin. You can do this by boiling peaches for 30 seconds.
Then put them in cold water. The skin will peel off easily.
Cut the peaches into small pieces. Remove the pits.
Measure 4 cups of chopped peaches for the jam.
Step 2: Cook the Peach Jam
In a large pot, mix peaches and lemon juice.
Stir in the powdered pectin. Mix well.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Add sugar all at once. Stir constantly.
Boil hard for 1 minute. Keep stirring so jam does not burn.
Remove from heat. Skim off any foam on top.
Step 3: Prepare Jars for Canning
Wash jars, lids, and rings in hot soapy water.
Rinse well. Keep jars hot until ready to fill.
You can heat jars in boiling water or in a warm oven.
This stops jars from breaking when you fill them with hot jam.
Step 4: Fill Jars with Jam
Use a funnel to fill jars with hot peach jam.
Leave 1/4 inch space at the top of each jar.
Wipe the rim of jars with a clean damp cloth.
Put lids on jars. Screw rings on until tight but not too tight.
Step 5: Water Bath Canning Process
Fill your water bath canner with water. Water should cover jars by 1-2 inches.
Heat water to simmering (not boiling yet).
Place jars in canner using jar lifter.
Bring water to a full boil.
Process jars for 10 minutes at sea level.
For higher altitudes, add extra time (see table below).
Altitude Adjustments For Processing Time
| Altitude (feet) |
Processing Time (minutes) |
| 0-1000 |
10 |
| 1001-3000 |
15 |
| 3001-6000 |
20 |
| 6001-8000 |
25 |
Step 6: Cooling and Storing Your Jam
After processing, turn off heat.
Carefully remove jars with jar lifter.
Place jars on a towel or cooling rack.
Let jars cool for 12 to 24 hours.
You will hear lids “pop” as they seal. This means success!
Check seals by pressing the center of the lid.
If it does not move up and down, the jar is sealed.
If the lid moves, keep jam in the fridge and use soon.
How Long Does Peach Jam Last?
Properly canned peach jam lasts up to one year.
Store jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry.
After opening, keep jam in the fridge and use within one month.
Tips for Perfect Peach Jam
- Use ripe, fresh peaches for best flavor.
- Do not skip lemon juice; it helps jam set.
- Clean jars and lids well to prevent spoilage.
- Stir jam often while cooking to avoid burning.
- Follow water bath times carefully for safety.
Why Use Pectin?
Pectin helps jam become thick and jelly-like.
Peaches have some natural pectin but not enough for firm jam.
Adding powdered pectin gives good texture every time.
What is Water Bath Canning?
Water bath canning is a way to preserve food safely.
You put jars in boiling water for a set time.
This kills harmful bacteria and seals jars airtight.
It keeps your jam fresh for months without a fridge.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not sterilizing jars and lids
- Using old or damaged jars
- Not following the exact recipe
- Skipping the water bath process
- Leaving too much or too little headspace
Summary of the Peach Jam Canning Process
| Step |
Action |
| 1 |
Peel and chop peaches |
| 2 |
Cook peaches with sugar, pectin, lemon juice |
| 3 |
Prepare and sterilize jars |
| 4 |
Fill jars with hot jam, leave space |
| 5 |
Seal jars and process in water bath |
| 6 |
Cool jars and check seals |
| 7 |
Store jars in cool, dark place |
Final Thoughts
Making and canning peach jam is simple and rewarding.
It lets you enjoy fresh peaches even in winter.
Follow these steps carefully for safe and tasty jam.
Share your homemade jam with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do You Water Bath Can Peach Jam?
Water bath can peach jam for 10 minutes at sea level. Add 1 minute per 1,000 feet of altitude above sea level.
How Do You Preserve Peach Jam?
Preserve peach jam by pouring it into sterilized jars and sealing them tightly. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes. Let jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Use within one year for best quality.
How Long Will Canned Peach Jam Last?
Canned peach jam lasts up to one year for best quality and flavor. Store jars in a cool, dark place.
How To Properly Can Homemade Jam?
To properly can homemade jam, sterilize jars, fill with hot jam leaving ¼ inch headspace, wipe rims clean, apply lids, and process in boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes. Cool jars undisturbed, then check seals before storing in a cool, dark place.
