A Step-by-Step Guide to Canning Peaches

Canning peaches is a great way to enjoy their sweet flavor year-round. With a few simple steps, you can preserve these delicious fruits and avoid waste. Follow this guide to learn how to can peaches at home.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You will need:

• Fresh peaches
• Large pot
• Canning jars with lids
• Jar lifter
• Water bath canner
• Sugar (optional)

Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Once cooled, peel the skin off the peaches. Cut them in half and remove the pits. You can also slice the peaches into quarters or smaller pieces if you prefer.

Make the Syrup

Next, prepare a syrup to pack the peaches in. You can make a light, medium, or heavy syrup depending on your taste. For a light syrup, mix 2 cups of sugar with 4 cups of water. Heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves.

If you prefer, you can also use fruit juice or plain water instead of syrup. The choice is up to you.

Pack the Jars

Place the peach halves or slices into the canning jars. Pack them tightly but leave enough space for the syrup. Pour the hot syrup over the peaches, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.

Remove any air bubbles by running a non-metallic spatula around the inside of the jar. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal.

Seal and Process the Jars

Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight. Carefully lower the jars into the water bath canner. Make sure the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch.

Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for the recommended time, usually around 20 minutes. The exact time may vary based on your altitude and jar size.

Cool and Store. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. They can last up to a year.

Canning peaches is a rewarding process that lets you enjoy the taste of summer even in the colder months. With this step-by-step guide, you can confidently preserve peaches at home. Enjoy your homemade canned peaches in desserts, breakfasts, or straight from the jar.