Are you craving the sweet taste of summer but watching your sugar intake? This sugar-free peach jelly recipe is the perfect solution! It captures the juicy essence of ripe peaches without the added sugar, making it a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and a delightful addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. It's also a fantastic option for healthy meals and a quick dinner side. Let's dive in and create a jar of sunshine!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup sugar substitute (erythritol or stevia recommended – adjust to your taste preference)
- 1 pouch (1.75 oz) powdered pectin
- 4 half-pint canning jars, sterilized
Instructions:
Getting Started:
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Prepare your peaches: Wash, peel, and slice the peaches. Removing the peel makes for a smoother jelly. If you're short on time, you can use a peeler, but a vegetable peeler works best.
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Sterilize your jars: Wash the jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Rinse well and place them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are completely sterilized. This is crucial for preserving your jelly.
Making the Jelly:
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Combine peaches and lemon juice: In a large saucepan, combine the sliced peaches and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Simmer the peaches: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the peaches are very soft.
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Mash the peaches: Remove the saucepan from the heat and use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the peaches. You can leave some small chunks for texture, or puree completely for a smoother jelly.
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Stir in pectin and sweetener: Return the saucepan to medium heat. Add the powdered pectin and sugar substitute. Whisk vigorously for about one minute until the mixture is completely combined and slightly thickened.
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Cook the jelly: Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Once it reaches a rolling boil, maintain the boil for one full minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
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Fill the jars: Carefully ladle the hot jelly into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids and rings on, and tighten securely.
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Process the jars (optional but recommended): For longer shelf life, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step ensures your delicious sugar-free peach jelly stays fresh for months. If you skip this step, store the jelly in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 weeks.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe, flavorful peaches for the best results.
- Adjust the amount of sugar substitute according to your taste preference and the sweetness of your peaches.
- Don't overcook the jelly, or it may become too thick.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Incorporate other fruits like raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry peach jelly.
- For a spicier kick, add a small amount of finely chopped ginger.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the sugar substitute used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with the specific sweetener used.
This sugar-free peach jelly recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the taste of summer without the guilt. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. Try it today and experience the deliciousness!