Honey Spiced Peaches Canning Recipe to Savor Year-Round

Canning is a delightful way to preserve the flavors of summer, and what better way to do that than with a jar of honey spiced peaches? This recipe not only captures the essence of ripe, juicy peaches but also infuses them with warm spices and the natural sweetness of honey. Whether you’re looking to enjoy these peaches on a chilly winter day or give homemade gifts, this canning recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why Can Honey Spiced Peaches?

Canning peaches is a fantastic way to enjoy their sweet, juicy goodness long after the summer season has passed. Honey spiced peaches add an extra layer of flavor that elevates the peach to a gourmet treat. The combination of honey and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, comforting taste that pairs beautifully with desserts, breakfast dishes, or even as a topping for savory meals.

Not only do canned peaches make for a delicious snack, but they also provide a sense of accomplishment. There’s something incredibly satisfying about preserving food at home, knowing exactly what goes into each jar. Plus, they make wonderful gifts for friends and family.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before diving into the canning process, gather the following ingredients:

• Fresh Peaches: 8 pounds of ripe peaches.

• Honey: 2 cups of your favorite honey.

• Water: 4 cups for the syrup.

• Sugar: 1 cup

• Cinnamon: 1 1/2 teaspoons for that warm spice flavor.

• Allspice: 3/4 teaspoon

• Cloves: 1/2 teaspoon

• Canning Jars: Quart-sized jars with lids and bands.

  
  

Make sure to choose peaches that are ripe but still firm, as they will hold up better during the canning process.

Preparing the Peaches

Start by washing the peaches thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Next, you’ll want to blanch them to make peeling easier.

1. Blanching: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the peaches into the boiling water for about 30-60 seconds.

   
   

2. Ice Bath: Immediately transfer the peaches to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

   

   
   

3. Peeling: Once cooled, the skins should slip off easily. Cut the peaches in half, remove the pits, and slice them into 1 inch slices.

   

Making the Honey Syrup

While you’re preparing the peaches, it’s time to make the honey syrup that will infuse the fruit with flavor.

1. In a large pot, combine the water, honey, sugar, and spices.

   
   

2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved.

   

3. Gently add the sliced peaches to the syrup and cook for 3 minutes.

   
   

4. Remove from heat.

   
   

Packing the Jars

Now that your peaches and syrup are ready, it’s time to pack the jars.

1. Filling Jars: Place the peach slices into the jars, packing them tightly but not overly so. Leave 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.

   
   

2. Use a wooden chop stick or a bubble remover to remove any air bubbles trapped in the jar.

   
   

3. Sealing: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight. (For quality, American made Superb canning lids and jars follow this link and use the coupon code WP20 to get 20% off your purchase.) 

   
   

Processing the Jars

To ensure your honey spiced peaches are safely preserved, you’ll need to process the jars in a water bath.

1. Water Bath: Fill a large canning pot with hot water. Carefully lower the jars into the water, ensuring they are covered by at least an inch of water.

   
   

2. Processing Time: Process the jars for 25 minutes.  (Adjust the processing time if you are above 1000 feet.)

   

3. After processing, allow to cool in the water bath with the heat off and the lid removed for 5 minutes.

   

4. Cooling: Once the time is up, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a  heat resistant surface about 1-2 inches apart. Allow them to cool completely for 24 hours.

   
   

Storing Your Canned Peaches

Once your jars are cool, check the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar has sealed properly. Store your sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Properly canned peaches can last for up to 3 years, but they’re so delicious you might find yourself reaching for them long before then!

Enjoying Your Honey Spiced Peaches

Now that you have your honey spiced peaches ready, the possibilities are endless! Enjoy them straight from the jar, add them to yogurt or oatmeal, or use them as a topping for ice cream or pancakes. They also make a fantastic addition to savory dishes, such as pork or chicken, adding a sweet twist.

Conclusion

Canning honey spiced peaches is not only a rewarding experience but also a way to savor the flavors of summer all year long. With just a few simple ingredients and some time, you can create a delicious treat that will remind you of warm sunny days. So gather your peaches, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the sweet taste of homemade goodness!