Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer peaches in a jar. It makes baking easy and enjoyable, whether you’re preparing a classic peach pie for a family gathering or a cozy cobbler for a weeknight dessert. This recipe combines fresh peaches with sugar and spices to create a versatile filling that you can use year-round. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also elevates your desserts with its rich flavor and homemade touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet peaches and warm spices creates an irresistible filling.
• Easy Canning Process: With the water bath canning method, you can preserve this filling without any special equipment.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for peach pies, crisps, or even as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
• Seasonal Enjoyment: Enjoy the taste of summer peaches even during winter months.
• Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the satisfaction of homemade preserves!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools ensures your canning process goes smoothly. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating that perfect peach pie filling.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (quart-size)
• A large pot
• Water bath canner
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Jar lifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for safely storing your peach pie filling while preserving freshness.
• Water bath canner: Provides an even heat source, ensuring proper sealing and safety during processing.
• Ladle: Allows for easy transfer of hot filling into jars without spills.

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)

For the Filling

• 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 to an ice bath to cool quickly. Peel, pit, and slice the peaches. To prevent browning, soak slices in water with lemon juice or ascorbic acid.

Step 3: Blanch Slices

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

Step 4: Make Filling Base

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

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices

Stir in lemon juice along with cinnamon and nutmeg (if using). Boil for 1 minute.

Step 6: Add Peaches

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

Step 7: Fill Jars

Using a ladle, fill the warm jars with hot peach filling, leaving about 1 inch of headspace. Remove air bubbles by running a spatula around inside edges. Wipe rims clean before sealing with lids and bands.

Step 8: Process Jars

Place filled jars into your boiling water bath canner. Process them for 30 minutes (adjust time if you are at high altitude).

Step 9: Cool and Store

After processing time is up, let jars sit undisturbed for about 12–24 hours. Check seals after cooling, label them clearly, and store 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 a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dessert. Whether you’re preparing a classic pie or looking for something unique, there are endless ways to enjoy this delightful preserve.

Classic Peach Pie

• A traditional peach pie made with flaky crust and filled with your homemade canned peach pie filling. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Peach Cobbler

• Utilize the filling as the base for a comforting peach cobbler. Top it with a buttery biscuit layer and bake until golden brown.

Peach Crisp

• Combine the filling with a crunchy oatmeal topping for a delicious peach crisp. It’s quick to prepare and offers a delightful texture contrast.

Pancake Topping

• Drizzle the canned peach filling over pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast treat. It adds a burst of flavor to your morning routine.

Yogurt Parfait

• Layer the peach filling in yogurt with granola for a healthy and satisfying parfait. This makes for a great snack or light dessert.

Ice Cream Sundae

• Use the filling as an ice cream topping, along with whipped cream and nuts, for an indulgent sundae that’s perfect for summer.

How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

To ensure your homemade canned peach pie filling turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture. Overripe peaches may lead to mushy filling.

• Use Clear Jel: Always use cook-type Clear Jel instead of cornstarch for thickening, as it’s safe for canning and maintains consistency.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar amount based on your taste preferences or the sweetness of your peaches.

• Sterilize jars properly: Ensure that your jars are thoroughly sterilized before use to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.

• Check acidity levels: Always add bottled lemon juice to maintain proper acidity, which is crucial for safe canning.

• Leave adequate headspace: Make sure to leave 1 inch of headspace in jars when filling them; this allows room for expansion during processing.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Complement your homemade canned peach pie filling with these delicious side dishes that enhance any meal or dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm peach desserts, creating a classic summer treat.

2. Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits serve as an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up juices from the peach filling.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add a contrasting flavor profile that balances out desserts nicely while providing some savory elements.

4. Savory Cheddar Scones: These cheesy scones offer a delightful contrast to sweet fillings; they are great served alongside cobblers or pies.

5. Roasted Almonds: Crunchy roasted almonds add texture and nutty flavors that complement the sweetness of peach desserts well.

6. Minted Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with mint enhances flavors while offering a light counterpart to richer desserts like pies or crisps.

7. Coconut Cream Rice Pudding: This creamy pudding provides a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with peaches, adding creaminess and richness.

8. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips dusted with cinnamon sugar make an exciting dipping option for enjoying leftover filling straight from the jar!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your homemade canned peach pie filling, avoiding common pitfalls will help ensure your success and safety.

• Using the wrong type of Clear Jel: Make sure to use only cook-type Clear Jel for canning. Instant varieties do not provide the necessary thickening for safe storage.
• Neglecting jar sterilization: Always wash and sterilize your jars before filling. This step helps prevent spoilage and ensures a good seal.
• Skipping acid measurement: Accurately measure bottled lemon juice to maintain proper acidity. This is vital for safe canning practices.
• Overfilling jars: Leave at least 1 inch of headspace in each jar. This space allows for expansion during processing and ensures a tight seal.
• Ignoring processing times: Follow the recommended processing time closely. Adjust for altitude as needed to ensure that your filling is safely canned.
• Not checking seals: After cooling, always check that your jars have sealed properly. If a jar hasn’t sealed, refrigerate it and use it within a week.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store opened jars in the fridge.
• Use within one week for best quality.

Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Keep frozen for up to one year for optimal flavor.

Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat filling in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring often.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long does homemade canned peach pie filling last?

Homemade canned peach pie filling can last up to one year when stored properly in a cool, dark place.

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 are some uses for homemade canned peach pie filling?

You can use this versatile filling for pies, cobblers, crisps, or even as a topping for pancakes and ice cream!

Is it safe to can without lemon juice?

No, using bottled lemon juice is crucial for safety due to its consistent acidity level. It prevents bacterial growth during storage.

Can I customize the spices in my peach pie filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust or add spices like ginger or cloves according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This homemade canned peach pie filling is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can create various desserts or enjoy it straight from the jar. Customize it with your favorite spices or use different fruits. Try making it today and savor the flavors of summer all year round!