French Peach Jam Recipe

My mum’s French Peach Jam Recipe is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer in a jar. This homemade jam is all-natural and free from artificial pectin, allowing you to enjoy the true flavor of peaches. Perfect for breakfast spreads, desserts, or simply as a sweet treat, this jam is versatile and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something truly special that highlights the sweetness of fresh peaches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Natural Ingredients: Made with fresh or frozen peaches, sugar, and lemon juice, ensuring a pure peach flavor without additives.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create delicious jam that will impress friends and family.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect as a spread on toast, filling for pastries, or topping for desserts.
• Great for Gifting: Homemade jars of jam make thoughtful gifts for friends and loved ones.
• Preserves Summer Flavor: Enjoy the taste of ripe peaches year-round by making this easy jam.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes your jam-making experience smoother and more enjoyable. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious peach jam.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large jam pan
• Hand blender
• Measuring cups
• Weighing scale
• Clean jam jars with lids

Importance of Each Tool

• Large jam pan: A wide surface area helps in even cooking and prevents overflow during boiling.
• Hand blender: Allows you to achieve your desired consistency quickly without transferring hot ingredients.
• Weighing scale: Ensures precise measurements for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

To prepare my mum’s French peach jam, you will need the following:

For the Jam

• 2.2 Pounds Peach (fresh or frozen)
• 3⅓ Cups Sugar
• 1 Lemon (juice it and keep lemon halves)

How to Make French Peach Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

1. Rinse peaches under cool water and pat them dry with a towel.
2. Cut each peach in half and remove the pit.
3. Cut further into quarters and peel your peaches.

Step 2: Weigh the Peaches

1. Use your weighing scale to measure out 2.2 pounds of prepared peaches.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Place peeled peaches into a large jam pan.
2. Add sugar, lemon juice, and the squeezed lemon halves to the pan.
3. Stir all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Cook the Jam

1. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to simmer for at least 40–50 minutes until fruits appear glossy and translucent.

Step 5: Blend

1. Remove lemon halves from the mixture and discard them.
2. Use a hand blender to blend your jam to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Check If Jam Has Set

1. Continue simmering until the jam has set.
2. Test by dropping hot jam on an ice-cold plate; if it’s running, cook longer.

Step 7: Prepare Jars

1. Before filling jars, drop a little Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) into each lid to preserve freshness.

Step 8: Fill Jars

1. Pour hot peach jam into clean jars while still warm.
2. Close tightly with lids then turn jars upside down.

Step 9: Storage

1. Keep jars upside down for several hours then store in a cool place away from sunlight.
2. In humid climates, refrigerate for best results.

With this easy French Peach Jam Recipe, you’re sure to enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam is a delightful treat that can elevate any meal or snack. Its sweet and fruity flavor pairs well with various dishes, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.

On Toast

• Spread a generous layer of French peach jam on freshly toasted bread for a quick and delicious breakfast.

With Cheese

• Pair the jam with your favorite cheese, such as brie or goat cheese, for a sophisticated appetizer that balances sweetness and creaminess.

In Yogurt

• Stir in a spoonful of French peach jam into plain yogurt for a refreshing and flavorful snack.

In Desserts

• Use the jam as a filling for pastries, tarts, or cakes to add a burst of fruity flavor and natural sweetness.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Drizzle warm French peach jam over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup for a unique twist on breakfast classics.

With Ice Cream

• Serve a dollop of French peach jam over vanilla ice cream for an easy yet impressive dessert option.

How to Perfect French Peach Jam Recipe

To ensure your French peach jam turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe peaches: The sweetness and flavor of the jam depend on the quality of your peaches. Choose ripe, fragrant peaches for the best results.

• Measure accurately: Weighing your ingredients ensures that the jam has the perfect balance of fruit and sugar, contributing to its texture and flavor.

• Monitor cooking time: Cooking your jam too long can lead to a thick consistency. Keep an eye on it during the simmering phase to achieve desired thickness.

• Test for doneness: Use the cold plate test to determine if your jam has set properly. This simple method helps you avoid overcooking.

• Store correctly: After filling jars, store them upside down for a few hours. This technique helps create a vacuum seal that keeps your jam fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam complements various side dishes beautifully. Here are some great options to serve alongside it.

1. Brie Cheese: Soft and creamy, brie pairs perfectly with the sweetness of peach jam.
2. Greek Yogurt: The tangy flavor contrasts nicely with the sweet jam; top with nuts for added texture.
3. Savory Crackers: A crunchy base enhances the sweet spread; choose whole grain or herb-infused crackers.
4. Grilled Chicken Salad: Add dollops of peach jam to dressings for a fruity twist in salads.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A smear of peach jam can elevate roasted carrots or sweet potatoes with its sweet glaze.
6. Pancakes: Serve pancakes drizzled with peach jam alongside crispy bacon for a delightful brunch combo.
7. Cheese Board: Create an impressive cheese board featuring different cheeses, nuts, and French peach jam for balance.
8. Oatmeal: Stir in some peach jam into warm oatmeal for added sweetness and flavor enhancement in your morning routine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making French Peach Jam can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Overcooking the Jam: Cooking your jam too long can lead to a thick and sticky texture. Keep an eye on the clock and test for doneness after 40 minutes.
• Ignoring Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is vital for flavor and setting. Always include it in your recipe; it balances sweetness and helps the jam set naturally.
• Using Unripe Peaches: Unripe peaches lack flavor and sweetness. Make sure to use ripe, juicy peaches for a delicious jam.
• Not Sterilizing Jars: Failing to sterilize your jars can lead to spoilage. Always clean your jars before filling them with hot jam to ensure freshness.
• Skipping the Taste Test: Not tasting your jam before canning may result in unexpected flavors. Always taste and adjust sugar or lemon as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store opened jars in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2–3 weeks for the best flavor.

Freezing French Peach Jam Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars.
• Use within 6–12 months for optimal quality.

Reheating French Peach Jam Recipe

• Oven: Place the jar (without lid) in a warm oven until heated through. This method keeps the flavors intact.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between until warm. Use a microwave-safe container.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat the jam in a saucepan over low heat until warm, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making French Peach Jam.

How do I make my French Peach Jam thicker?

You can add more lemon juice or cook it longer to achieve a thicker consistency. Testing frequently will help you get it just right.

Can I substitute other fruits for peaches?

Yes! You can use other fruits like apricots or nectarines for different flavors while following the same method used in this French Peach Jam Recipe.

How long does homemade peach jam last?

When stored properly, homemade peach jam can last up to one year in the freezer or about 2–3 weeks once opened and refrigerated.

What is the best way to serve French Peach Jam?

Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or as a topping on desserts like yogurt and ice cream for a delightful treat!

Final Thoughts

This French Peach Jam Recipe captures the essence of summer in every jar. Its natural ingredients make it both healthy and delicious, allowing you to savor fresh peach flavors year-round. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra twist!