Making homemade jam can seem intimidating, but with this Spiced Peach Jam recipe, you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to create a batch of sweet, spiced goodness that’s perfect for fall. With the addition of cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, this chunky, sweet jam will be your new go-to spread. Whether you want to enjoy it on toast, add it to desserts, or gift it to loved ones, this spiced peach jam offers a fresh and unique twist on classic peach jam.
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Why You’ll Love This Spiced Peach Jam
This Spiced Peach Jam recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and spice, making it perfect for all seasons, but especially during the cozy fall months. The peaches add a bright and fresh flavor, while the spices infuse warmth into every spoonful. What makes this jam even more appealing is how quick and easy it is to make, making it a great choice for beginners and seasoned jam makers alike. Whether you’re looking to preserve the taste of summer peaches or want to give homemade gifts, this spiced peach jam is the perfect recipe.
Ingredients
- Peaches: The base of this recipe, fresh peaches are the star ingredient, providing a natural sweetness and chunky texture.
- Lemon Juice: Adds acidity to balance out the sweetness and helps preserve the jam.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the jam and assist in the setting process with the pectin.
- Spices: Ground cinnamon, allspice, and cloves bring the warm, fall-inspired flavors that elevate the jam.
- Pectin: Essential for thickening the jam, pectin helps achieve the desired consistency.
- Canning Jars: To store your homemade jam, ensuring it stays sealed and fresh.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking to make substitutions based on dietary needs or personal preferences, here are a few ideas:
- Sugar alternatives: Try using honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute for a more natural sweetness.
- Spice variations: If you prefer a spicier jam, you could increase the cinnamon or try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger.
- Peach alternatives: Swap peaches for other seasonal fruits like apricots or nectarines for a unique twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Peaches: Begin by peeling, pitting, and slicing the peaches. Chop them into small bits, avoiding pureeing them completely. A potato masher or a chop stir tool works well for this step.
- Heat the Jam Mixture: In a large pot, combine the chopped peaches, lemon juice, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and pectin. Heat the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a hard boil.
- Add the Sugar: Once the mixture is boiling, add the sugar all at once. Stir continuously while adding the sugar to prevent clumping. Continue boiling the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, or until the jam reaches the desired consistency.
- Prepare the Jars: While the jam is boiling, prepare your jars by washing them in hot water. Let the jars sit for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are warmed up. Dry the jars by placing them upside down on a clean towel.
- Ladle the Jam: Once the jam is ready, ladle it into the prepared jars. Leave a small amount of space at the top of the jars.
- Seal the Jars: Place the lids and rings onto the jars and secure them tightly. For sealing, use the inversion method by flipping the jars upside down. This helps to create a vacuum seal, keeping the jam fresh for months.
- Cool and Store: After 24 hours, flip the jars back to their upright position. Your Spiced Peach Jam is now ready to enjoy or store in the pantry for up to 18 months.
Tips & Tricks
- Consistency check: If you’re unsure if your jam is the right consistency, do the “plate test.” Place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate, and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and doesn’t flood back into the groove, it’s ready!
- Prevent mess: To avoid sticky jars, wipe the rims of the jars before sealing to ensure the lids form a clean seal.
- Storage: If you want to enjoy your jam sooner, store it in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. The sealed jars can last up to 18 months in your pantry.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This Spiced Peach Jam is wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of foods:
- Breakfast options: Spread it on toast, pancakes, or waffles for a delicious start to your day.
- Cheese pairing: The warmth of the spices in the jam pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
- Dessert topping: Add it to cakes, yogurt, or ice cream for a sweet and spiced addition.
- Spicy version: For those who love a little heat, consider adding a small amount of finely chopped jalapeños to the jam for a spicy kick.
Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal
Peach jam, especially one made with fresh, ripe peaches, offers a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants. The spices used in this recipe also have health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and aiding digestion. Additionally, the homemade nature of this jam allows you to control the amount of sugar, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought versions packed with preservatives.
By making your own spiced peach jam, you can enjoy a fresh and healthy treat, perfect for any season, especially during the height of peach harvest in summer.
Making Spiced Peach Jam is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying, as it fills your home with a delightful aroma of peaches and warm spices. Whether you’re looking to preserve the flavors of summer or share a homemade gift, this jam will be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy!
Conclusion
This Spiced Peach Jam recipe is a wonderful way to preserve the sweet, juicy peaches of summer while infusing them with a cozy, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to making jams, this recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results that are perfect for spreading on toast, gifting, or adding to desserts. The combination of fresh peaches, lemon juice, and warm spices creates a rich and flavorful jam that’s far superior to store-bought versions. With this recipe, you’ll always have a jar of homemade goodness ready to enjoy or share with loved ones.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices or make substitutions to suit your taste. Once you’ve mastered this Spiced Peach Jam, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen all year long.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Spiced Peach Jam last?
If stored properly in sealed jars, Spiced Peach Jam can last up to 18 months in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 weeks for the best quality.
Can I use frozen peaches for this jam?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the jam. Fresh peaches are ideal, but frozen ones can work in a pinch.
Can I reduce the sugar in the Spiced Peach Jam?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar amount to suit your taste. Keep in mind that sugar helps the jam set properly, so reducing it too much may affect the consistency. If you’re using a low-sugar pectin, follow the directions on the package to adjust for less sugar.
More Relevant Recipes
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Spiced Peach Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 3 pint jars of jam 1x
Description
This Spiced Peach Jam recipe is a perfect blend of fresh peaches and warm fall spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. It’s easy to make and perfect for spreading on toast or using as a topping for desserts. The chunky texture and bright peach flavor will surely make this jam a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons low-sugar pectin
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3 pint-sized canning jars (or 6 half-pint jars) with lids and rims
Instructions
- Peel, pit, and slice the peaches. Chop them into small bits, avoiding pureeing them.
- Heat a large pot on medium and add the chopped peaches, lemon juice, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and pectin. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a hard boil, stirring frequently for around 20 minutes.
- While the jam boils, measure out the sugar in a separate bowl.
- Prepare the jars by washing them in hot water, and let them sit for 2-3 minutes to warm up. Dry the jars by overturning them on a clean towel.
- Once the jam reaches a hard boil, add the sugar all at once, stirring while pouring it in. Continue boiling for 5 more minutes.
- Once the jam is ready, ladle it into the prepared jars, leaving a small amount of space at the top.
- Seal the jars with the lids and rings. Use the inversion method by turning the jars upside down immediately after sealing them. This will create a vacuum seal.
- Let the jars cool for 24 hours before storing them upright in a cool, dark place.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a stronger peach flavor, reduce the spices slightly.
- For a thicker jam, cook it longer until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If using frozen peaches, thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
- If you’re not using the inversion method, store the jars in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Preserves, Jams, Spreads
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 3mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
