Peach Pie Filling Canning Recipes: A Guide to Summer's Sweetness
The aroma of freshly baked peach pie is a quintessential summer treat. But what if you could enjoy that taste all year round? Canning your own peach pie filling lets you savor the summer's sweetness whenever you crave it. Here's a guide to make delicious, homemade peach pie filling ready for your pantry:
Why Make Your Own Peach Pie Filling?
- Freshness: Homemade filling guarantees the freshest ingredients, free from artificial flavors and preservatives.
- Customization: You control the sweetness, thickness, and even the type of peaches you use.
- Cost-effective: Making your own filling is often cheaper than store-bought options.
- Perfect for gifts: Jarred pie filling makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family.
Essential Tools for Canning Peach Pie Filling
Before you dive into canning, gather these essentials:
- Canning jars: Use pint or half-pint jars, sterilized according to canning instructions.
- Canning lids and rings: Use new lids and rings for optimal sealing.
- Canning pot: A large pot with a rack to safely hold jars during processing.
- Jar lifter: For safe and easy handling of hot jars.
- Funnel: To avoid spills when filling jars.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Ladle: To transfer hot filling into jars.
- Rubber spatula: For scraping down the pot and ensuring even mixing.
Choosing the Right Peaches
For the best flavor and texture, choose ripe peaches. They should be soft to the touch and have a pleasant aroma.
- Fresh Peaches: Pick firm, ripe peaches with vibrant color.
- Frozen Peaches: Frozen peaches can be a great option, but opt for whole peaches over slices. Let them thaw completely before processing.
Basic Peach Pie Filling Recipe
Yields: Approximately 6 pints Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 cups sliced peaches (about 6 pounds)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare peaches: Peel and slice peaches.
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine peaches, sugar, lemon juice, butter, and spices (if using).
- Cook: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peaches are tender and the filling thickens.
- Prepare jars: Sterilize jars and lids according to canning instructions.
- Fill jars: Ladle hot filling into prepared jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Process: Wipe jar rims, place lids and rings, and process in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes.
- Cool and store: Let jars cool completely, check for seals, and store in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Perfect Peach Pie Filling
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the filling before canning and adjust sugar to your preference.
- Add a pinch of salt: A touch of salt enhances the sweetness of the filling.
- Use a food mill: For smoother texture, puree the filling through a food mill after cooking.
- Double the recipe: If you plan to use a lot of filling, double or triple the recipe to make canning more efficient.
Enjoy Your Homemade Peach Pie Filling
Once your canned peach pie filling is ready, use it to create your favorite pies, cobblers, crisps, or even topping for ice cream. Enjoy the taste of summer any time of year!
