French Peach Jam Recipe

My mum’s French Peach Jam Recipe is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer in a jar. This all-natural jam, made without artificial pectin, ensures a perfect texture and flavor that enhances breakfast or any sweet treat. Ideal for gifting or enjoying at home, this jam beautifully showcases fresh peaches, making it a must-try for any fruit lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just three main ingredients, this jam comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without fuss.
• Fresh Flavor: Using ripe peaches and lemon juice brings out the natural sweetness and flavor profile of the peaches.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a spread on toast or as an ingredient in desserts, this jam adds a fruity touch to many dishes.
• No Artificial Ingredients: This recipe prioritizes natural flavors and avoids artificial additives, making it a healthier choice.
• Perfect for Gifting: Jar up some peach jam and share it with friends and family; it’s a thoughtful gift that everyone loves.

Tools and Preparation

To create your French Peach Jam, having the right tools will streamline the process and ensure success. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jam pan
• Hand blender
• Measuring cups
• Weighing scale
• Clean jars with lids

Importance of Each Tool

• Jam pan: A large surface area helps cook down the fruit evenly, promoting better evaporation of moisture.
• Hand blender: Perfect for achieving your desired consistency without transferring hot ingredients to another container.
• Measuring cups: Ensures precise measurements of sugar and liquids for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

For this delicious French Peach Jam Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Jam

• 2.2 Pounds Peach (fresh or frozen)
• 3⅓ Cups Sugar
• 1 Lemon (juice it and keep lemon halves)

How to Make French Peach Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

1. Rinse peaches thoroughly under running water and pat dry.
2. Cut each peach in half to remove the pit, then cut into quarters.
3. Peel the peach skins off carefully.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Weigh your peeled peaches using a kitchen scale.
2. Place them into a large jam pan along with sugar and lemon juice.
3. Add the squeezed lemon halves to the mixture for added flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Jam

1. Stir all ingredients together until well mixed.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 40–50 minutes until fruits are glossy and translucent.

Step 4: Blend and Test Consistency

1. Remove lemon halves from the pot and discard them.
2. Use a hand blender to blend until you reach your desired consistency—smooth or chunky as preferred.
3. Continue simmering while testing for set by dropping hot jam on an ice-cold plate; repeat cooking if necessary until set.

Step 5: Jar Your Jam

1. Before filling jars, add a few drops of alcohol-free vanilla extract into each lid to inhibit mold growth.
2. Carefully pour hot peach jam into clean jars, sealing them tightly with lids.
3. Turn jars upside down for several hours before storing them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

This French Peach Jam Recipe is not only simple but also captures the vibrant flavors of summer peaches perfectly! Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or even as an ingredient in your favorite dessert recipes!

How to Serve French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam is a delightful addition to many dishes and can elevate your meals. Its sweet and fruity flavor pairs well with various foods, making it versatile for breakfast or snacks.

On Toast

• Spread a generous layer of peach jam on warm, buttered toast for a delicious breakfast treat.

With Yogurt

• Add a spoonful of peach jam to plain or Greek yogurt for a refreshing snack or dessert.

As a Glaze

• Use peach jam as a glaze for grilled chicken or turkey, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the meat’s taste.

In Smoothies

• Blend peach jam into your smoothies for an extra layer of sweetness and fruitiness.

In Baking

• Incorporate peach jam into your baked goods, such as muffins or cakes, to add moisture and flavor.

Cheese Pairing

• Serve peach jam alongside a cheese platter. It complements soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese beautifully.

How to Perfect French Peach Jam Recipe

To achieve the best results with your French peach jam, follow these simple tips. They will help you create a deliciously set and flavorful jam.

• Choose ripe peaches: Ripe peaches have the best flavor and natural sweetness, making your jam more enjoyable.
• Use fresh lemon juice: The acidity from lemons helps balance the sweetness and aids in setting the jam.
• Monitor cooking time: Cooking too long can lead to overly thick jam; keep an eye on the consistency while simmering.
• Test for doneness: Always perform a cold plate test to ensure your jam is set before canning.
• Store in airtight jars: Proper storage prevents spoilage and keeps your jam fresh for longer.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor twist in your peach jam.

Best Side Dishes for French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam can be paired with various side dishes to create delightful meal combinations. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter
   A variety of cheeses including brie, cheddar, and goat cheese make an excellent pairing with peach jam.

2. Pancakes
   Top fluffy pancakes with warm peach jam instead of syrup for a fruity breakfast option.

3. Oatmeal
   Stir in some peach jam into your morning oatmeal for added sweetness and fruitiness.

4. Grilled Chicken Salad
   Mix grilled chicken slices with leafy greens and drizzle with vinaigrette combined with peach jam for added flavor.

5. Scones
   Serve homemade scones warm with a dollop of peach jam alongside clotted cream for an indulgent treat.

6. Rice Cakes
   Spread on rice cakes as a light snack that balances crunchiness with sweetness from the jam.

7. Fruit Salad
   Toss fresh fruits together and drizzle them lightly with peach jam for a vibrant side dish.

8. Savory Tartines
   Create savory tartines by spreading cream cheese on bread and topping it with a layer of peach jam for contrast in flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making French peach jam can be a delightful experience, but there are several common pitfalls to avoid.

• Bold Ingredient Measurement: Not weighing the peaches accurately can affect the jam’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Bold Skipping the Lemon: Omitting lemon juice can lead to overly sweet jam. Always include it for balance and proper setting.
• Bold Ignoring the Boiling Process: Failing to bring the mixture to a rolling boil may prevent the jam from setting properly. Ensure you boil vigorously before simmering.
• Bold Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking for too long can caramelize the sugar, while undercooking may result in runny jam. Monitor closely and use the cold plate test.
• Bold Forgetting to Sterilize Jars: Using unsterilized jars can lead to spoilage. Always sterilize your jars and lids before filling them with jam.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
• Keep the jam in the fridge for up to 3 months.

Freezing French Peach Jam Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to one year while maintaining quality.

Reheating French Peach Jam Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place jar in oven until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between to prevent hot spots.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until desired temperature is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this French peach jam recipe, here are some answers.

How long does homemade French peach jam last?

Homemade French peach jam lasts about 3 months when stored in the refrigerator and up to a year if frozen.

Can I use frozen peaches for this French peach jam recipe?

Yes, frozen peaches work well! Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before using.

What can I do if my jam doesn’t set?

If your jam doesn’t set, return it to heat, boil it again, and test with the cold plate method until it reaches the desired consistency.

How do I know when my French peach jam is done cooking?

Your jam is done when it appears glossy and translucent; use the cold plate test to check its setting point.

Can I add spices or other fruits?

Absolutely! You can customize your French peach jam by adding spices like cinnamon or mixing in other fruits for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

This French peach jam recipe is not only easy but also allows you to savor summer flavors all year round. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or even mix different fruits for a unique twist. Enjoy spreading this delightful jam on toast or using it in desserts!