Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer peaches all year long. This sweet, spiced preserve is ideal for baking pies, crisps, or cobblers on any occasion. With an easy water bath canning method, you can enjoy delicious peach flavors even in the depths of winter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe simplifies the canning process, ensuring that anyone can create their own peach pie filling at home.
• Versatile use: Perfect for pies, crumbles, and even as a topping for pancakes or ice cream.
• Flavorful and fresh: Using ripe peaches ensures a burst of flavor in every bite, making your desserts truly memorable.
• Long-lasting preservation: Canning allows you to enjoy the taste of summer peaches for up to a year.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your homemade canned peach pie filling, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (quart-size)
• Large pot
• Ladle
• Funnel
• Boiling water bath canner
• Ice bath bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: These are essential for preserving your filling and keeping it fresh for months.
• Boiling water bath canner: Ensures safe processing and sealing of jars during the canning process.
• Ladle: Helps in easily transferring hot filling into jars without 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 you’re ready to fill them.

Step 2: Prepare Peaches

Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds. Transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. 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 them well and keep warm while preparing the filling.

Step 4: Make Filling Base

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

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices

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

Step 6: Add Peaches

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

Step 7: Fill Jars

Ladle the hot filling into warm jars while leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a spatula around inside each jar’s edges. Wipe rims clean before sealing with lids and bands.

Step 8: Process Jars

Place filled jars into a boiling water bath canner. Process them for 30 minutes (adjust timing based on altitude).

Step 9: Cool and Store

After processing, let jars sit undisturbed for at least 12–24 hours. After cooling, check seals before labeling them clearly. Store in a cool, dark place where they will stay fresh for 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 delightful ways. Whether you’re baking a classic dessert or adding a fruity twist to breakfast, the possibilities are endless.

In Pies

• Use this filling as the base for traditional peach pies. Simply pour it into a prepared pie crust and bake until golden.

Over Ice Cream

• Drizzle warm peach pie filling over vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae twist. The warm fruit contrasts beautifully with the cold ice cream.

In Crisps and Cobblers

• Layer the filling in between crumbs or biscuit dough for easy crisps and cobblers. Bake until bubbly for an effortless dessert.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Spoon warm peach filling atop fluffy pancakes or waffles. Add whipped cream or yogurt for a sweet breakfast treat.

Mixed in Yogurt Parfaits

• Incorporate the filling into yogurt parfaits with granola and fresh fruit for a wholesome snack or breakfast option.

As a Toast Topping

• Spread the filling on toasted bread or bagels, topped with cream cheese, for a unique and flavorful brunch item.

How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Creating the perfect homemade canned peach pie filling requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for optimal results.

• Use fresh peaches: Select ripe, high-quality peaches for the best flavor. Avoid overripe fruits that may be too soft.
• Ensure proper sterilization: Sterilize jars thoroughly to prevent spoilage. This is crucial when canning.
• Adjust sugar levels: Taste your peaches before adding sugar, as sweetness can vary by batch. Adjust accordingly.
• Monitor thickness: Stir constantly while cooking the filling base to ensure even thickening without lumps.
• Follow processing times: Adhere strictly to recommended processing times in the water bath canner to ensure safety.
• Check seals properly: After cooling, check that all jar seals are tight before storing them away. This ensures quality throughout storage.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Homemade canned peach pie filling pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its sweet flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that adds creaminess to your peach creations. Serve alongside slices of pie or drizzled over warm fruit.
2. Savory Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits provide a nice contrast to sweet fillings. Serve them alongside your dessert for added texture.
3. Greek Yogurt
   The tangy flavor of Greek yogurt balances the sweetness of peach pie filling nicely, making it perfect as a topping or dip.
4. Oatmeal
   Stirring in peach pie filling into your morning oatmeal creates a flavorful breakfast option that’s both hearty and satisfying.
5. Pound Cake
   Slices of moist pound cake make an excellent base for peach topping, bringing rich flavors together in one delightful dessert.
6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese pairs well with sweet peaches, offering an enjoyable contrast of flavors at gatherings.
7. Fruit Salad
   Combine fresh fruits with peach pie filling for an extra touch of sweetness in your salad, elevating its taste profile significantly.
8. Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars served with a side of warmed peach filling create a delicious snack option that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your homemade canned peach pie filling experience smoother and more successful. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of Clear Jel: Make sure to use cook-type Clear Jel, as instant varieties won’t thicken properly during canning.
• Neglecting jar sterilization: Always sterilize your jars before filling them to ensure food safety and prevent contamination.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice is crucial for maintaining acidity levels, which ensures safety during storage.
• Not accounting for headspace: Leaving insufficient headspace in jars can lead to overflow during processing. Aim for at least 1 inch.
• Overcooking peaches: Blanch slices only briefly to maintain their color and texture. Overcooked peaches can become mushy.
• Ignoring altitude adjustments: If you live at a high altitude, adjust processing times accordingly for safe preservation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Transfer filling to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 1 year.

Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat, stirring frequently 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 sweet preserve made from fresh peaches, sugar, and thickening agents, perfect for pies and desserts.

How long does Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling last?

When stored properly in a cool, dark place, it lasts up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 1-2 weeks.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! This method works well with other stone fruits like cherries or plums. Adjust sugar levels based on fruit sweetness.

What recipes can I use with this filling?

You can use it in pies, crisps, cobblers, or even as a topping for pancakes or ice cream!

Final Thoughts

This homemade canned peach pie filling is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer all year round. Its versatility allows you to create various dishes beyond just pies. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different spices or using alternative sweeteners. Enjoy making it and savor the flavors of fresh peaches any time!