Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to preserve the taste of fresh peaches all year round. Perfect for your favorite peach desserts, this recipe allows you to create a luscious filling that can be used in pies, crisps, or cobblers. With its sweet and spiced flavor, this filling will bring summer vibes to your winter baking adventures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this filling with ease.
• Versatile use: Great for pies, cobblers, or even served over ice cream for a delicious treat.
• Long-lasting: Canning preserves the flavor and freshness, allowing you to enjoy peaches throughout the year.
• Customizable flavor: Add your preferred spices to make it uniquely yours.
• Perfect for gifting: Share jars of this delightful filling with friends and family for any occasion.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this homemade canned peach pie filling, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars
• Large pot
• Ladle
• Water bath canner
• Ice bath container

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: These are crucial for storing your peach pie filling safely. Make sure they are sterilized before use.
• Large pot: You will need a spacious pot to cook the filling and ensure even heating.
• Water bath canner: This tool is essential for processing jars safely during canning.
• Ladle: A ladle makes it easy to transfer hot filling into jars without spills.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to prepare your homemade canned peach pie filling:

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

Step 3: Blanch Slices

Boil the sliced peaches in batches for about 1 minute. Drain them well and keep warm.

Step 4: Make Filling Base

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

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices

Stir in the bottled lemon juice along with cinnamon and nutmeg if you choose to use them. Boil for an additional minute.

Step 6: Add Peaches

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

Step 7: Fill Jars

Using a ladle, fill each warm jar with the hot peach filling while leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles inside the jar by running a spatula around the edges. Wipe down the rims of each jar before sealing with lids and bands.

Step 8: Process Jars

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

Step 9: Cool and Store

Let the processed jars sit undisturbed for about 12–24 hours. Afterward, check that seals are secure. Label your jars and store them in a cool, dark place where they will remain fresh for up to one year.

How to Serve Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Homemade canned peach pie filling is versatile and can be used in many delicious ways. Whether you’re baking a classic pie or looking for a sweet topping, there are countless serving options to enjoy this delightful treat.

As a Classic Peach Pie

• Use the filling to create a traditional peach pie with a flaky crust. Bake until golden brown for a comforting dessert.

Over Vanilla Ice Cream

• Spoon warm peach filling over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert that’s both warm and cold.

In Peach Cobbler

• Layer the filling with biscuit dough for an easy peach cobbler. Bake until bubbly and serve warm for maximum comfort.

With Pancakes or Waffles

• Drizzle the filling over pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast treat. Top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Mixed into Yogurt

• Stir the filling into plain or Greek yogurt for a quick snack or healthy breakfast option. Add granola for crunch.

As a Topping for Cheesecake

• Use the peach filling as a topping on cheesecake. The sweetness complements the creamy texture beautifully.

How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Creating the perfect homemade canned peach pie filling requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your preserve turns out just right.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor and sweetness in your filling.
• Follow sterilization steps: Properly sterilize your jars to prevent any bacteria from spoiling your preserves.
• Adjust sugar levels: You can modify sugar levels based on your sweetness preference, but don’t reduce it too much as it helps with preservation.
• Use clear jel correctly: Ensure you use cook-type Clear Jel as instructed; it’s essential for safe canning.
• Monitor cooking time: Stir continuously while cooking to avoid scorching and ensure even thickness.
• Check jar seals: After processing, make sure each jar has sealed properly before storing them away.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Pairing side dishes with your homemade canned peach pie filling can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious suggestions that complement this sweet preserve perfectly.

1. Savory Biscuits: Buttery biscuits are great alongside sweet fillings, offering a delightful contrast of flavors.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing; its creaminess balances the sweetness of the peach filling perfectly.
3. Crispy Fried Chicken: The savory spices of fried chicken pair well with the sweetness of peaches, making an amazing combination.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes contrasts nicely with fruity desserts like peach pie.
5. Grilled Pork Chops: Juicy pork chops work wonderfully when served with peach salsa made from your canned filling.
6. Cheddar Cheese Platter: Sharp cheddar cheese offers a savory balance against the sweet flavor of peaches, making an excellent appetizer option.
7. Oatmeal Pancakes: These hearty pancakes bring warmth and heartiness, making them perfect when served with sweet toppings like peach filling.
8. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables adds depth and flavor to any meal featuring fruit-based desserts like peach pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making homemade canned peach pie filling, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the quality and safety of your preserves. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of Clear Jel: Make sure to use cook-type Clear Jel, as instant varieties do not work for canning.
• Not sterilizing jars properly: Always wash and sterilize your jars before use to prevent contamination and spoilage.
• Ignoring headspace guidelines: Leaving too little headspace can cause jars to break during processing. Always leave 1 inch of headspace.
• Skipping the water bath processing: Properly process your jars in a boiling water bath to ensure they seal correctly and remain safe for storage.
• Neglecting to check seals after cooling: After letting your jars cool, always check that the seals are tight before storing them.
• Not labeling jars: Always label your jars with the date and contents for easy identification later.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store opened jars in the refrigerator.
• Use within 1-2 weeks for best quality.

Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Portion filling into airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 1 year. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about homemade canned peach pie filling that may help you as you prepare this delightful recipe.

How long does homemade canned peach pie filling last?

Homemade canned peach pie filling lasts up to 1 year if stored properly in a cool, dark place.

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to your filling mixture.

What is the best way to thicken my peach pie filling?

Using cook-type Clear Jel is recommended as it provides a smooth consistency without affecting flavor.

How should I adjust sugar levels?

You can reduce sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness, but be cautious as it may affect preservation.

Is it safe to can without lemon juice?

No, bottled lemon juice is essential for maintaining proper acidity levels, ensuring safety during canning.

Final Thoughts

This homemade canned peach pie filling is not only delicious but also versatile. You can use it for pies, cobblers, or even as a topping for desserts. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or additional fruits. Try this recipe today and savor the taste of summer all year round!