Are you looking for a way to preserve your fresh peaches and enjoy them for months to come? Look no further than peach butter! This delicious spread is made by cooking fresh peaches with sugar and spices until they become thick and spreadable. And the best part? It’s easy to make and can at home!
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To get started, you’ll need to gather your ingredients and equipment. You’ll need fresh peaches, granulated sugar, spices (such as cinnamon and nutmeg), a slow cooker or pot on the stove, and canning jars and equipment. Once you have everything you need, it’s time to start cooking!
Simply peel and slice your peaches, add them to your slow cooker or pot with the sugar and spices, and let them cook low and slow until they become thick and spreadable. Then, transfer the peach butter to your canning jars and process them in a water bath canner to ensure they’re safe to store at room temperature.
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Understanding Peach Butter
If you’re new to canning, you might be wondering what peach butter is. Peach butter is a type of fruit butter made by cooking peaches with sugar until they become thick and spreadable. Fruit butters are a type of preserve made by cooking fruit with sugar until the mixture becomes thick and spreadable. Unlike jams and jellies, which are made with fruit juice and pectin, fruit butters are made with pureed fruit and sugar.
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Peach butter is a great way to use up a surplus of peaches and enjoy their sweet flavor all year round. It’s also a versatile spread that can be used on toast, biscuits, and even as a topping for ice cream.
It’s important to use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. You can use any variety of peach, but some varieties are sweeter and more flavorful than others.
To sweeten peach butter, you can use granulated sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Some recipes also call for spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add flavor.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making peach butter, choosing the right ingredients is crucial to ensure a delicious and safe end product. Here are some tips on selecting the best ingredients for your peach butter recipe.
Peaches
The key ingredient in peach butter is, of course, peaches. When selecting peaches, look for ripe, juicy fruit that is free from bruises or soft spots. Yellow-fleshed peaches are best for this recipe, as they have a higher acidity level, which is important for safe canning. If you are using white peaches, be sure to add lemon juice to increase the acidity level.
Sugar
Sugar is essential to sweeten and preserve the peach butter. Granulated sugar is the most commonly used sweetener, but you can also use brown sugar or honey for a different flavor. Be sure to measure the sugar accurately, as too much or too little can affect the texture and safety of the final product.
Spices
Spices are optional but can add a delicious flavor to your peach butter. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, and allspice are all popular choices. Use them sparingly, as they can overpower the delicate flavor of the peaches. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.
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Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is an important ingredient, as it helps to increase the acidity level of the fruit. This is important for safe canning, as low-acid foods can harbor harmful bacteria. Be sure to use bottled lemon juice, as fresh lemon juice can vary in acidity level.
Peach Butter Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs. peaches (9 medium peaches)
- 1/2 c. water
- 1/4 c. bottled lemon juice
- 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. nutmeg
- 3 c. sugar
Before you can start making peach butter, you need to prepare the peaches. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Wash the peaches: Rinse the peaches under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the peaches gently.
- Peel the peaches: You can peel the peaches using a vegetable peeler or a knife. If the peaches are ripe, the skin should come off easily. It isn’t necessary however to peel the peaches. The skins will cook down as the peach butter cooks and can easily be blended in if desired.
- Remove the pits: Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits using a spoon or a knife.
- Chop the peaches: Cut the peaches into small pieces. You can use a food processor or a blender to pulse the peaches into a pulp.
- Cook the peach pulp: Place the peach pulp, sugar, spices, and lemon juice in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until it thickens.
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Cooking Process
Now that you have your peach puree ready, it’s time to start cooking it to achieve that perfect, spreadable consistency. There are a few different methods you can use, so choose the one that works best for you.
If you’re using a pot on the stove, make sure to stir your peach puree frequently to prevent scorching. You’ll want to cook it down until it’s thickened and reduced in volume. This can take anywhere from 1-2 hours, depending on the amount of puree you have and the heat level you’re using.
Another option is to use a slow cooker or crockpot. This is a great method if you want to set it and forget it. Simply add your peach puree to the slow cooker with any additional spices or sugar, and let it cook on low for 3-4 hours. You can also cook it in the oven at 200 degrees for a few hours, stirring occasionally.
If you’re looking for a smoother consistency, you can use a blender, food processor, or immersion blender to puree your peaches before cooking. This will help break down any larger chunks and create a smoother texture in your finished product.
No matter which cooking method you choose, make sure to keep an eye on your peach butter as it cooks. You want to make sure it’s thickened enough to spread, but not so thick that it’s difficult to work with. And don’t forget to stir it frequently to prevent scorching and ensure even cooking.
Canning Peach Butter
Canning is a great way to preserve the delicious taste of summer peaches for months to come. Here are the steps to canning peach butter in a water bath canner:
- Sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in a large stockpot for at least 10 minutes. Keep them in the hot water until you are ready to fill them. You can also sterilize them by running them through a quick rinse in the dishwasher.
- Fill each jar with the peach butter, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. You can easily measure the headspace with this inexpensive canning funnel.
- Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
- Place a new lid on each jar and screw a band on until it is fingertip tight.
- Place the jars in your water bath canner and make sure they are completely covered with at least 1 inch water.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil and process the jars for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
- Remove the jars from the canner using canning tongs and place them on a towel to cool.
- After the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If it doesn’t move, the jar is sealed. If it pops up and down, the jar is not sealed and should be refrigerated and used within a week.
Storing Peach Butter
Freezing Peach Butter
If you have a lot of peach butter and don’t plan on using it all within a few weeks, freezing is a great option. To freeze it, simply spoon it into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little bit of room at the top for expansion. Seal the container tightly and freeze for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the peach butter in the refrigerator overnight.
Refrigerating Peach Butter
If you plan on using it within a few weeks, storing it in the refrigerator is a good option. Spoon the peach butter into a clean, airtight jar or container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to label the jar with the date so you know when to use it by.
General Storage Tips
- Always store your peach butter in a clean, airtight container to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Keep it from direct sunlight and heat sources, as this can cause it to spoil more quickly.
- If you notice any mold or off smells, discard it immediately.
- When using your peach butter, always use a clean utensil to prevent contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make peach butter using a crockpot?
Making peach butter using a crockpot is a simple and easy process. First, peel, pit, and slice up the peaches. Layer the peaches in a crockpot, filling to the top. Pour sugar over the top of the peaches and add in your desired spices. Cook on low for 3-4 hours in the crockpot or at 200 degrees in the oven.
What is the difference between peach butter and peach jam?
Peach butter and peach jam are both sweet spreads made from peaches, but they differ in texture and consistency. Peach butter has a smooth, velvety texture and a concentrated peach flavor, while peach jam has a chunky texture and a more balanced sweetness.
Can I safely water bath can peaches?
Yes, you can safely water bath can peaches. It is important to follow proper canning procedures to ensure the safety and quality of your canned peaches.
How long should I hot water bath can peach butter?
To hot water bath can peach butter, first, fill your canning jars with the peach butter, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Place the jars in a large pot of boiling water, making sure the jars are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Process for 10 minutes for half-pints and pints, and 15 minutes for quarts.
How can I use whipped peach butter in my cooking?
Whipped peach butter can be used in a variety of ways, such as spreading on toast, muffins, or scones, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles. It can also be used as a filling for cakes or pastries, or as a glaze for roasted meats or vegetables. Get creative and experiment with different recipes to find your favorite ways to use whipped peach butter.
