How to Make Peach Jelly
Peach jelly is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in a jar. It’s a perfect way to preserve the sweet and juicy flavor of peaches for year-round enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, making peach jelly is a rewarding and satisfying endeavor. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create your own homemade peach jelly, ensuring that you’ll have a jar of this delectable spread ready to enjoy on toast, in yogurt, or as a topping for ice cream.
Ingredients
To make peach jelly, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 4 pounds of fresh, ripe peaches
– 4 cups of sugar
– 1 box (3 ounces) of liquid pectin
Preparation
Before you begin, it’s essential to prepare your peaches and equipment. Start by peeling, pitting, and slicing the peaches into small pieces. Place the peach slices in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help release the natural pectin from the peaches.
Measuring the Sugar
Next, measure out 4 cups of sugar. It’s crucial to use the exact amount of sugar, as it’s what helps to set the jelly. Pour the sugar into a separate pot and heat it until it’s dissolved. Keep the sugar syrup warm while you prepare the peach mixture.
Adding Pectin
Once the peach mixture has simmered for 10 minutes, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. In a separate bowl, mix the liquid pectin with 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir this mixture into the peach mixture, then return the pot to a low heat. Gently stir the mixture until the pectin is completely dissolved.
Boiling the Jelly
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. A rolling boil is when the bubbles are large and persistent, and they can’t be stirred down. Boil the mixture for 1 minute, then remove it from the heat.
Skimming the Foam
While the jelly is boiling, you’ll notice a layer of foam forming on the surface. Use a spoon to skim off the foam, as it can affect the clarity of the jelly.
Testing the Jelly
To test if the jelly has reached the correct consistency, place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes. Then, spoon a small amount of jelly onto the plate. If the jelly wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready. If it’s too runny, continue boiling for a few more minutes and test again.
Pouring and Canning
Once the jelly has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Skim off any remaining foam. Then, pour the jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean cloth, place the lids on, and process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly.
Enjoy Your Homemade Peach Jelly
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own peach jelly. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place. Enjoy your homemade peach jelly on toast, in yogurt, or as a topping for ice cream. Share this delightful treat with family and friends, and savor the sweet taste of summer all year long.
