The Pennywise Peach Jam Recipe
Peach jam holds a special place in our hearts. Its sun-kissed sweetness and fragrant aroma evoke memories of long summer days, even in the depths of winter.
While our climate doesn’t bless us with peach trees, we’ve found ways to keep peach jam a staple in our pantry, thanks to some strategic penny-pinching and a bit of creativity. Here’s my easy go-to peach jam recipe so you can, too.
A Family Favorite
In our household, peach jam is a favorite spread. From slathering it on freshly baked bread to swirling it into yogurt, its uses are endless and always delightful.
The challenge, however, lies in sourcing peaches. Unlike the abundant crabapples and sour cherries that we often get for free from friends and neighbors, peaches aren’t native to our region. But that hasn’t stopped us from enjoying this delicious preserve.
Finding Peaches on a Budget
Summertime is prime peach season, and it’s also the best time to find deals on this juicy fruit. Local farmers’ markets, grocery store sales, and even fruit trucks passing through town offer opportunities to snag peaches at a reasonable price.
When I spot a good deal, especially if the peaches are slightly past their prime, I jump at the chance to stock up. These less-than-perfect peaches are ideal for making jam. Their ripeness enhances the sweetness and flavor of the final product, making them perfect for our needs.
Preserving Summer’s Bounty
Once I have my peaches, I like to prepare and freeze them for use throughout the year. Freezing peaches is a straightforward process that ensures we have a steady supply for jam-making during the colder months. Here’s a quick guide on how I do it:
- Blanching and Peeling: Start by blanching the peaches in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then quickly transfer them to an ice water bath. This makes peeling a breeze.
- Slicing and Treating: After peeling, slice the peaches and treat them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Freezing: Lay the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.
This method preserves the flavor and texture of the peaches, making them perfect for future jam batches.
The Beauty of Frozen Peaches
If my frozen stash runs out or I didn’t have a chance to freeze any, bulk bags of frozen peaches are a fantastic alternative. I often find these “slightly imperfect” peaches at a fraction of the cost of fresh ones. They work just as well for jam-making and ensure that we never have to go without our favorite spread.
Making Peach Jam
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making peach jam. This recipe is straightforward and yields consistently delicious results.
Enjoy Year-Round
With this recipe, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year long. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, using it as a filling for pastries, or simply eating it by the spoonful, this peach jam is sure to become a family favorite in your home, just as it is in ours. Happy jamming!
Final Thoughts
In the Pennywise Plates tradition, making peach jam is not just about the delicious end product, but also about making the most of what we have. By being resourceful and taking advantage of seasonal sales and bulk buys, we ensure that our pantry is always stocked with this golden, fruity goodness.
So, keep an eye out for those peach deals, and happy jamming!