This homemade peach butter is sweet, smooth, and bursting with peachy goodness. It’s super easy to make and perfect for spreading on toast or pancakes!
You’ll love how the kitchen smells while it cooks—like a peachy paradise! I like to whip up a batch and share it with friends; it’s a delightful gift that’s sure to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, juicy peaches are essential for rich flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen peaches—just thaw and drain them first. Canned peaches can also work if they are packed in juice, but drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
Sugars: I use a mix of granulated and brown sugar to balance sweetness with deep flavor. You can substitute coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option or a sugar substitute if you’re watching sugar intake—just check for sweetness equivalence.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness and helps preserve the color. For a twist, try using lime juice instead, which gives a fun zesty flavor. For a more natural taste, use apple cider vinegar sparingly.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add warmth and depth. Feel free to experiment! Try ginger for a spicier kick or allspice for a unique twist.
How Do I Get My Peach Butter to the Right Consistency?
Achieving the perfect spreadable texture for peach butter can be tricky! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with ripe peaches for the best flavor.
- Cook the mixture over low heat and stir frequently to avoid sticking.
- Keep an eye on the texture; it should be thick enough that it holds its shape but not dry. Take it off the heat when it reaches this point, as it may thicken further as it cools.
- For precise consistency, use a candy thermometer; you’re aiming for around 220°F/104°C.
Don’t rush this step, as the slow cooking process helps develop the flavor and achieve that coveted peach butter texture! Enjoy your homemade creation!
Homemade Peach Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and cook the peach butter. After that, let it simmer for about 1-2 hours on the stovetop or 4-6 hours in a slow cooker. So, plan for around 2-3 hours total, including cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Mixture:
Start by peeling, pitting, and chopping the fresh peaches. In a large pot or a slow cooker, combine these chopped peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure all the peaches are nicely coated with the sugars.
2. Cook the Peaches:
Cook the mixture over medium heat on the stovetop or in the slow cooker on low heat. This process will allow the peaches to soften and begin breaking down. Keep an eye on it and give it a stir every now and then for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Blend Until Smooth:
Once the peaches have softened, transfer the mixture into a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree everything until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Add Spices and Salt:
After blending, pour the pureed peaches back into your pot or slow cooker. Now it’s time to spice things up! Add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir well to combine all those wonderful flavors.
5. Thicken the Mixture:
Continue to cook the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens! You want it to thicken to a spreadable consistency, which usually takes about 1-2 hours on the stovetop. If using a slow cooker, it may take 4-6 hours. Be patient and stir often!
6. Cool and Store:
After your peach butter has thickened, remove it from heat and let it cool down. Once cooled, transfer it into sterilized jars, seal them tightly, and refrigerate. Your peach butter will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or you can can it for longer storage.
7. Enjoy Your Peach Butter!
Now that you have this delicious homemade peach butter, enjoy it spread on toast, biscuits, or as a sweet topping for desserts. It’s peachy perfection!
FAQs About Homemade Peach Butter
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using, so your peach butter doesn’t become too watery.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
If you prefer a less sweet peach butter, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar or brown sugar to your liking. Start with half a cup of granulated sugar and taste the mixture as it cooks, adjusting to suit your preferences.
Can I Use Other Fruits to Make Fruit Butter?
Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like apples, pears, or berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may require adjustments in sugar or cooking time due to their varying moisture content and sweetness levels.
How Should I Store Leftover Peach Butter?
Store peach butter in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider canning it properly for extended shelf life—just follow safe canning practices!
