Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to preserve the sweet taste of ripe peaches for year-round enjoyment. Whether you’re preparing for a summer gathering or a cozy winter dessert, this filling brings the essence of summer into any season. Its thick, silky base makes it perfect for pies, crisps, or cobblers, ensuring that each bite bursts with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Water Bath Canning: This method simplifies the canning process, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for not just pies but also crisps and other desserts. You can elevate many recipes with this filling!
• Fresh Summer Flavor: Capture the taste of fresh peaches in every jar. Enjoy them long after peach season ends.
• Customizable Spice Options: Add cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste. Tailor the flavor profile to your preference.
• Long Shelf Life: Store jars for up to one year without losing quality, making this a smart addition to your pantry.

Tools and Preparation

Canning requires specific tools and careful preparation. Gathering the right equipment ensures a smooth process from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (quart-size)
• Large pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Water bath canner
• Ice bath setup (large bowl with ice water)

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: These are essential for preserving your filling safely and effectively.
• Large pot: This is needed to cook your filling evenly without spillage.
• Water bath canner: A water bath canner allows you to process jars safely at high temperatures, ensuring proper sealing.
• Ladle: Helps in transferring hot filling into jars without making a mess.

Ingredients

This homemade canned peach pie filling is a sweet, spiced preserve made with fresh peaches and a thick, silky base—perfect for baking pies, crisps, or cobblers year-round. With this easy water bath canning method, you can enjoy the flavor of summer peaches even in winter.

Ingredients (for 4–5 quarts)
6 quarts fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 24–30 medium peaches)
7 cups granulated sugar
2 cups cold water
1¾ cups clear jel (cook-type, not instant)
5¼ cups peach juice or water (from peaches or bottled)
½ cup bottled lemon juice
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional)
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

How to Make Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare Jars

Wash and sterilize 4–5 quart-size canning jars. Keep them warm until ready to fill.

Step 2: Prepare Peaches

Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds. Transfer them immediately to an ice bath. Peel, pit, and slice the peaches. To prevent browning, soak slices in water mixed with lemon juice or ascorbic acid.

Step 3: Blanch Slices

Boil sliced peaches in batches for 1 minute. Drain and keep warm.

Step 4: Make Filling Base

In a large pot, whisk together sugar and clear jel. Gradually stir in 2 cups cold water along with 5¼ cups peach juice or water. Cook over medium-high heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices

Stir in bottled lemon juice along with cinnamon and nutmeg if using. Boil the mixture for 1 minute.

Step 6: Add Peaches

Gently fold in the warm peach slices into the thickened mixture. Return everything to a boil while stirring gently.

Step 7: Fill Jars

Ladle the hot filling into warm jars while leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a spatula around the edges, wipe down rims of jars, then seal with lids and bands.

Step 8: Process Jars

Place filled jars into a boiling water bath canner. Process them for about 30 minutes; adjust processing time based on altitude if necessary.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Let jars sit undisturbed for about 12–24 hours after processing. After checking seals, label your jars clearly and store them in a cool, dark place where they will last up to one year.

How to Serve Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Homemade canned peach pie filling is versatile and can be enjoyed in various delicious ways. Whether you prefer it as a dessert or part of a breakfast dish, this filling brings summer flavors to your table year-round.

As a Classic Peach Pie

• Use your favorite pie crust recipe or store-bought crust.
• Pour the filling into the pie shell and bake until golden brown.

Over Vanilla Ice Cream

• Scoop vanilla ice cream into a bowl.
• Top generously with warm peach pie filling for a delightful dessert.

In a Crisp or Cobbler

• Mix the filling with a crumb topping for a quick crisp.
• Bake until bubbly and serve warm with whipped cream.

As a Pancake Topping

• Drizzle warm peach filling over fluffy pancakes.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

With Yogurt Parfaits

• Layer yogurt, granola, and peach filling in a glass.
• Enjoy as a nutritious breakfast or snack option.

How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Perfecting your homemade canned peach pie filling can elevate your desserts significantly. Here are some tips to ensure your filling turns out excellent every time.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch for optimal flavor and texture.
• Use clear jel: Always use cook-type Clear Jel for thickening, as it is safe for canning and provides the best consistency.
• Maintain acidity: Incorporate bottled lemon juice to ensure proper acidity levels, which is essential for safe canning.
• Leave proper headspace: When filling jars, remember to leave 1 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during processing.
• Adjust processing time: If you’re at high altitude, be sure to adjust the processing time based on local guidelines for safety.
• Check seals after cooling: Once cooled, press down in the center of each lid; if it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed properly.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Pairing side dishes with your homemade canned peach pie filling can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its sweet flavor perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken: Marinated grilled chicken pairs well by balancing the sweetness of the peaches.
2. Savory Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits serve as an excellent base when topped with peach filling and whipped cream.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery flavor of mashed potatoes contrasts nicely with sweet dishes like peach pie filling.
4. Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with nuts adds crunch and balances sweetness when paired with peaches.
5. Pork Chops: Juicy pork chops topped with peach sauce make an inviting savory-sweet combination.
6. Rice Pilaf: The mild flavors of rice pilaf provide a perfect backdrop for enjoying fruity toppings like peach pie filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some mistakes to watch for and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong Clear Jel: Make sure to use cook-type Clear Jel instead of cornstarch, as it is safe for canning.
• Skipping sterilization: Always sterilize your jars before filling them. This helps prevent spoilage and ensures food safety.
• Neglecting headspace: Be mindful of the 1-inch headspace when filling jars. This allows for expansion during processing.
• Ignoring acidity levels: Always use bottled lemon juice for consistent acidity, which is crucial for safe canning.
• Not adjusting for altitude: If you live at a higher altitude, be sure to adjust processing times accordingly for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 1-2 weeks after opening.

Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Use within 6-12 months for best quality.

Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place filling in a baking dish and cover with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about homemade canned peach pie filling:

What is Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling?

Homemade canned peach pie filling is a preserved mixture of peaches, sugar, and spices that can be used in various desserts throughout the year.

How long does Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling last?

When stored properly in a cool, dark place, canned peach pie filling can last up to 1 year.

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen peaches; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the filling mixture.

What recipes can I use this peach pie filling in?

This versatile filling works beautifully in pies, crisps, cobblers, or even as a topping on ice cream and yogurt.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for making pies or adding a sweet touch to other desserts. Feel free to customize the spices or sweetness level according to your taste preferences. Enjoy the taste of summer all year round!

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Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

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Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer and enjoy it throughout the year. This easy-to-make preserve features ripe peaches enveloped in a thick, sweet sauce, making it ideal for pies, cobblers, or simply topping your favorite desserts. With its customizable spice options and long shelf life, this filling not only adds flavor but also brings comfort to any meal. Whether you’re serving it over vanilla ice cream or using it as a filling for crisps or pancakes, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the taste of fresh peaches anytime with this simple canning method!

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 quarts fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, sliced)
• 7 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups cold water
• 1¾ cups cook-type Clear Jel
• 5¼ cups peach juice or water
• ½ cup bottled lemon juice
• Optional: 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Optional: ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Sterilize 4–5 quart-sized canning jars and keep warm.
2. Blanch peaches and transfer them to an ice bath; peel and slice them.
3. In a large pot, combine sugar and Clear Jel; gradually stir in cold water and peach juice. Cook until thickened.
4. Add lemon juice and spices; boil for 1 minute.
5. Fold in warm peach slices; return to boil while stirring gently.
6. Ladle hot filling into jars, leaving 1-inch headspace, seal with lids.
7. Process jars in boiling water bath for about 30 minutes.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Canning
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 45g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use firm yet ripe peaches for the best flavor. Adjust processing time for high altitudes for safe canning. Try adding different spices like ginger or allspice for unique flavors.