Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to preserve the taste of summer all year long. Perfect for baking pies, crisps, or cobblers, this sweet and spiced preserve will bring joy to any occasion. With its thick and silky base made from fresh peaches, you can enjoy the flavors of home-cooked desserts whenever you like. Plus, using the easy water bath canning method ensures that your peach pie filling is both safe and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe simplifies the canning process, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Versatile usage: Use this filling in pies, cobblers, or even as a topping for ice cream.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh peaches and spices creates a rich flavor that enhances any dessert.
• Long-lasting: Canned properly, this peach pie filling can last up to one year in storage.
• Seasonal joy anytime: Enjoy the taste of summer peaches even in the midst of winter!

Tools and Preparation

To create your homemade canned peach pie filling, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure your canning process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (quart-size)
• Large pot
• Water bath canner
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sterilizing equipment (dishwasher or boiling water)

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your peach pie filling safely and extending its shelf life.
• Large pot: Needed for cooking the filling base evenly to achieve the perfect thickness.
• Water bath canner: Ensures proper heat distribution during processing, keeping your preserves safe.

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 immediately after. 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 about 1 minute. Drain them well and keep warm.

Step 4: Make Filling Base

In a large pot, whisk together sugar and clear jel until combined. 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 desired. Boil the mixture for an additional minute.

Step 6: Add Peaches

Gently fold in the warm peach slices into the thickened base. Return the mixture 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 non-metallic spatula around the inside 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 about 30 minutes but adjust time according to altitude if necessary.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Let jars sit undisturbed for about 12–24 hours after processing. Check that seals are tight; label jars accordingly before storing them in a cool, dark place where they will stay good for up to one year.

How to Serve Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Homemade canned peach pie filling is a versatile treat that can elevate many dishes. Whether you want to create a classic dessert or add a fruity twist to breakfast, this filling has got you covered.

Classic Peach Pie

• Use your homemade filling as the star ingredient in a traditional peach pie. Pair it with a flaky crust for a delightful dessert.

Peach Cobbler

• Pour the filling over biscuit dough or cake batter for an easy and delicious peach cobbler. Bake until golden for a comforting dessert.

Ice Cream Topping

• Warm up the filling slightly and serve it over vanilla ice cream. The sweet peaches and syrup make for an irresistible sundae.

Pancake Filling

• Drizzle the canned peach filling over pancakes or waffles for a fruity breakfast option. It adds flavor and sweetness that everyone will love.

Yogurt Parfait

• Layer the peach pie filling with yogurt and granola for a refreshing parfait. This makes for an excellent snack or light breakfast.

Oatmeal Addition

• Stir some of the filling into your morning oatmeal for added sweetness and fruitiness. It’s a simple way to enjoy peaches any time of day.

How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

To ensure your homemade canned peach pie filling is always top-notch, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Choose ripe peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches yield the best flavor and texture in your filling.
• Use proper acidity: Always use bottled lemon juice to maintain safe acidity levels during canning.
• Monitor consistency: Adjust cooking time until the mixture thickens properly; it should coat the back of a spoon.
• Seal jars correctly: Ensure lids are tight and air bubbles are removed to prevent spoilage.
• Store wisely: Keep jars in a cool, dark place for optimal shelf life; check seals before use.
• Label clearly: Include the date on each jar so you can track freshness and use within one year.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Complement your delicious homemade canned peach pie filling with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with warm peach filling.
2. Buttermilk Biscuits – Flaky biscuits pair perfectly with sweet peach filling, making for a satisfying treat.
3. Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy touch when served atop peach desserts.
4. Pecan Crumble Topping – Sprinkle over desserts for added crunch and nutty flavor that complements peaches well.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers savory notes that balance the sweetness.
6. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad can provide brightness alongside rich desserts featuring peach pie filling.
7. Savory Crêpes – Stuff crêpes with cottage cheese or ricotta, then drizzle with warm peach pie filling for a unique dish.
8. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins work well alongside sweet fillings, enhancing both flavors in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When canning homemade peach pie filling, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not sterilizing jars properly: Always ensure jars are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to prevent spoilage. A simple boil in water for 10 minutes will suffice.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice is key for maintaining acidity. Don’t omit it, as it helps ensure the safety and flavor of your filling.
• Overfilling jars: Leaving sufficient headspace is crucial; always leave 1 inch of space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion during processing.
• Using instant Clear Jel: Make sure to use cook-type Clear Jel specifically designed for canning. Instant versions won’t thicken properly and can compromise your filling.
• Ignoring altitude adjustments: If you live at a higher altitude, processing times may differ. Always adjust your water bath processing time accordingly.
• Not checking seals after processing: After cooling, check if each jar has sealed properly by pressing down on the center of the lid. If it pops back, it hasn’t sealed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store opened jars in the refrigerator.
• Use within 1 week for best quality.

Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Use within 6 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat filling in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power, stirring every minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling?

Homemade canned peach pie filling is a sweet preserve made from fresh peaches that is thickened with Clear Jel and preserved for long-term storage.

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute frozen peaches, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using them in your filling.

How long does homemade canned peach pie filling last?

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

Can I customize my peach pie filling?

Absolutely! You can add spices like vanilla or ginger or even mix in other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist.

Is this recipe safe for canning?

Yes, when following proper canning guidelines and using bottled lemon juice, this recipe is safe for home canning.

What do I do if my jars didn’t seal?

If your jars did not seal properly, refrigerate them immediately and use the contents within a week.

Final Thoughts

This homemade canned peach pie filling is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It allows you to capture summer’s sweetness so you can enjoy it all year round. Feel free to customize it with different spices or fruit combinations to suit your taste preferences!