Summer's bounty is at its peak, and what better way to capture its essence than with a homemade peach jelly? This easy peach jelly recipe is perfect for beginners, requiring minimal equipment and surprisingly little time. Transform juicy, ripe peaches into a sweet and tangy spread that's perfect on toast, biscuits, or even as a glaze for grilled chicken. You'll be amazed at how simple it is to create this delicious and healthy treat, perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. This is one of those easy recipes that always impresses!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 4 cups sugar
- 1 box (1.75 ounces) powdered pectin
- 1/2 cup water
- 7 half-pint jars and lids
- Lemon juice (optional, adds brightness)
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Jar lifter
- Canner (optional, but recommended for best results)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
Start by washing and peeling your peaches. A simple method is to score an "X" on the bottom of each peach and blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water. The skin will slip right off! Pit and chop the peaches into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the smoother your jelly will be.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, and powdered pectin. Add the water and stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, continue to stir vigorously and boil for exactly 1 minute. This is crucial for setting the jelly properly.
Step 4: Skim the Foam
After the minute of boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Skim off any foam that has formed on the surface using a spoon. Adding a splash of lemon juice at this point enhances the flavor and helps prevent mold.
Step 5: Fill the Jars
Ladle the hot jelly into the prepared half-pint jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, and place the lids and rings on tightly.
Step 6: Process the Jars (Recommended)
For optimal shelf life, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes. This ensures a proper seal and prevents spoilage. If you choose not to can your jelly, store it in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.
Step 7: Cool and Check Seals
Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely. You should hear a "pop" as the jars seal. Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn't flex, your jelly is sealed!
Tips for the Best Peach Jelly:
- Use ripe peaches: The sweeter the peaches, the better the jelly will taste.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can lead to a cloudy jelly. Stick to the 1-minute boil time.
- Properly seal the jars: This ensures your jelly will last for months.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla extract for unique flavor variations.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Sugar: High (due to the nature of jelly)
This easy peach jelly recipe provides a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. Perfect as a quick breakfast spread, a unique gift, or an addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, this recipe is a delicious way to make the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the process, and savor the sweet reward of your homemade peach jelly!