What To Know
- Place the jars in a canning kettle or large pot filled with enough water to cover the jars by at least 1-2 inches.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil and process the jars according to the recommended time for your altitude.
- Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the water bath using a jar lifter and place them on a clean towel to cool completely.
Summer is synonymous with juicy, ripe peaches. But what happens when the season ends and the peaches disappear from the market? Fear not, because you can savor the taste of summer all year round by canning your own peach pie filling! This blog post will guide you through the process of can you can peach pie filling, ensuring you have delicious, homemade filling ready for your next pie craving.
The Allure of Homemade Peach Pie Filling
There’s something truly special about biting into a warm, flaky pie crust filled with the sweet, tangy goodness of homemade peach pie filling. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air, transporting you back to sunny summer days. But beyond the deliciousness, canning your own peach pie filling offers several advantages:
- Control over ingredients: You can choose the ripest, most flavorful peaches and adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking.
- Preserving summer’s bounty: Canning allows you to enjoy the taste of fresh peaches even when they’re out of season.
- Cost-effective: Making your own pie filling is often cheaper than buying pre-made options.
- Gift-giving potential: Jarred pie filling makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift for friends and family.
Essential Equipment and Ingredients
Before embarking on your canning journey, ensure you have the following equipment and ingredients:
Equipment:
- Canning jars and lids: Use wide-mouth pint jars for easier filling and a good portion size.
- Canning kettle or large pot: This will be used to process the filled jars.
- Jar lifter: Essential for safely removing hot jars from the boiling water.
- Magnetic lid lifter: Helps you easily place lids on hot jars.
- Funnel: For clean and mess-free filling of jars.
- Ladle: For transferring hot filling into jars.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Large bowl: For holding peeled and sliced peaches.
- Potato masher or fork: For gently breaking down some of the peaches.
Ingredients:
- Peaches: Choose ripe, flavorful peaches. The amount will vary depending on the size of your jars, but aim for about 5 pounds for 6-7 pints.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is the most common choice, but you can substitute with brown sugar or a sugar substitute if desired.
- Lemon juice: Helps to preserve the natural color and acidity of the peaches.
- Thickening agent: Cornstarch or tapioca starch will help create the desired consistency.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice are classic additions, but feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger or cardamom.
Step-by-Step Guide to Canning Peach Pie Filling
Now, let’s dive into the canning process:
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
- Wash the peaches thoroughly and remove any blemishes or damaged areas.
- Peel the peaches with a knife or a vegetable peeler.
- Slice the peaches into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Jars and Lids
- Wash the jars and lids in hot soapy water.
- Sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through the dishwasher on the sanitize cycle.
- Place the lids in a pot of simmering water for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Combine the sliced peaches, sugar, lemon juice, thickening agent, and spices in a large saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peaches are tender and the filling has thickened.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Jars
- Using a funnel, carefully fill the hot jars with the hot filling, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth.
- Place a lid on each jar and screw on the band until it’s fingertip tight.
Step 5: Process the Jars
- Place the jars in a canning kettle or large pot filled with enough water to cover the jars by at least 1-2 inches.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil and process the jars according to the recommended time for your altitude. For pints, this is typically 20 minutes at sea level.
- Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the water bath using a jar lifter and place them on a clean towel to cool completely.
Step 6: Check for Seals
- After the jars have cooled completely, check for a proper seal by pressing down gently on the center of the lid. If it pops back up, the jar did not seal properly and should be refrigerated and used within a week.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe peaches: The best pie filling comes from ripe, flavorful peaches.
- Don’t overcook the peaches: Overcooked peaches will become mushy and lose their flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness: You can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding different spices like ginger, cardamom, or cloves for a unique flavor profile.
- Label and date your jars: This will help you keep track of your canned goods and ensure they are used within the recommended time.
Sweet Success: Enjoying Your Canned Peach Pie Filling
With your jars of homemade peach pie filling safely stored, you’re ready to enjoy the taste of summer any time of year. Use it to make classic peach pies, cobblers, crisps, or even ice cream toppings. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Pie: Other Uses for Canned Peach Filling
While peach pie filling is a classic use, your canned creations can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Peach yogurt parfaits: Layer canned peach filling with yogurt and granola for a delicious and refreshing breakfast or snack.
- Peach salsa: Combine canned peach filling with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a unique and flavorful salsa.
- Peach jam: Simmer canned peach filling with additional sugar and lemon juice until it thickens to make a delicious peach jam.
- Peach smoothies: Blend canned peach filling with milk, yogurt, and ice for a refreshing and fruity smoothie.
The Sweet Finale: Preserving Summer’s Flavor
Canning peach pie filling is a rewarding and delicious way to preserve the taste of summer. It’s a simple process that allows you to enjoy fresh, homemade filling all year round. So, gather your peaches, gather your equipment, and get ready to experience the joy of canning your own peach pie filling!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long can I store canned peach pie filling?
A: Canned peach pie filling can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Q: Can I freeze canned peach pie filling?
A: While you can freeze canned peach pie filling, it’s not recommended as it can affect the texture and consistency.
Q: What happens if the seal on a jar doesn‘t hold?
A: If the seal on a jar doesn‘t hold, it means the jar wasn‘t processed correctly and the contents are not safe to eat. Refrigerate the jar and use it within a week.
Q: Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use other fruits like berries, apples, or cherries to create delicious pie fillings. Just adjust the cooking time and thickening agent as needed.
Q: What are some tips for getting a good seal on the jars?
A: Make sure the jars and lids are clean and sterilized. Wipe the rims of the jars clean before placing the lids on. Screw the bands on until they are fingertip tight, but don’t overtighten them.
