What To Know
- Having a pantry stocked with homemade peach pie filling means you can whip up a delicious pie in minutes, any time of year.
- A jar of homemade peach pie filling makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family.
- Place the jars in a pressure canner with a rack.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, juicy peaches. But what do you do with all those peaches when they’re at their peak? You can make jam, cobbler, or even freeze them for later use. But have you ever considered pressure canning peach pie filling? This method allows you to preserve the delicious taste of summer and enjoy it year-round.
Why Pressure Can Peach Pie Filling?
Pressure canning is the safest and most reliable way to preserve fruits like peaches. It eliminates the risk of botulism, a potentially deadly foodborne illness that can occur in improperly canned foods. Pressure canning creates a high-heat environment that kills harmful bacteria and spores, ensuring your pie filling is safe to eat for months to come.
The Benefits of Canning Peach Pie Filling
Canning peach pie filling offers several advantages:
- Convenience: Having a pantry stocked with homemade peach pie filling means you can whip up a delicious pie in minutes, any time of year.
- Cost-effective: Buying pre-made pie filling can be expensive. Canning your own allows you to save money and control the ingredients.
- Fresh flavor: Homemade pie filling tastes infinitely better than store-bought options, and you can customize it to your liking.
- Gift-giving: A jar of homemade peach pie filling makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start canning, gather these ingredients:
- Peaches: Choose ripe, firm peaches. You can use any variety, but freestone peaches are easier to work with.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is the most common sweetener for pie filling. You can adjust the amount to your preference.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice helps prevent browning and enhances the flavor of the peaches.
- Optional ingredients: You can also add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to your pie filling.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pressure Canning Peach Pie Filling
Preparation:
1. Prepare your jars: Wash jars, lids, and rings in hot, soapy water. Sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the peaches: Wash and peel the peaches. Cut them into slices or chunks, depending on your preference.
3. Make the filling: Combine the peaches, sugar, and lemon juice in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Fill the jars: Ladle the hot peach filling into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills.
5. Process the jars: Place the lids and rings on the jars. Tighten the rings until they are fingertip tight. Place the jars in a pressure canner with a rack. Add enough water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch.
Canning:
1. Bring the canner to pressure: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your pressure canner. Bring the canner to the recommended pressure for your altitude.
2. Process the jars: Once the canner reaches pressure, start the processing time. The processing time for peach pie filling is 20 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure.
3. Cool and store: After the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to naturally release. Do not remove the jars from the canner until the pressure drops to zero. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely on a clean, dry surface. Once the jars are cool, check the lids for proper sealing. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Successful Peach Pie Filling Canning
- Use fresh, ripe peaches: The quality of your peaches will affect the flavor of your pie filling. Choose ripe, firm peaches for the best results.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste: Some people prefer their pie filling sweeter than others. Adjust the sugar amount to your liking.
- Don’t overfill the jars: Leaving 1/2 inch of headspace is crucial for proper sealing and preventing spoilage.
- Follow the processing time carefully: Under-processing can lead to foodborne illness, so it’s essential to follow the recommended processing time.
- Test the seals: After the jars have cooled, check the lids for a proper seal. A sealed lid will be concave in the center.
Enjoy Your Homemade Peach Pie Filling
Once your peach pie filling is cool and sealed, you can store it in a cool, dark place for up to a year. When you’re ready to use it, simply spoon it into a pie crust and bake according to your favorite recipe.
Beyond the Pie: Creative Uses for Canned Peach Pie Filling
While peach pie filling is perfect for making a classic pie, it’s also versatile and can be used in many other recipes:
- Peach cobbler: Simply combine your canned filling with a biscuit or crumble topping and bake.
- Peach crisp: A quick and easy dessert that’s perfect for a weeknight treat.
- Peach ice cream: Blend canned filling with ice cream for a delicious summer dessert.
- Peach smoothies: Add a dollop of canned filling to your favorite smoothie recipe for a burst of peach flavor.
- Peach yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and canned filling for a healthy and satisfying breakfast or snack.
A Delicious and Safe Way to Enjoy Peaches Year-Round
Pressure canning peach pie filling is a fantastic way to preserve the delicious taste of summer and enjoy it year-round. With a little effort, you can create a pantry staple that will bring smiles to your face and your family’s table.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use frozen peaches to make pie filling?
A: Yes, you can use frozen peaches. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen peaches will release more moisture.
Q: How long can I store canned peach pie filling?
A: Properly canned peach pie filling can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Q: What happens if the jars don‘t seal properly?
A: If a jar doesn‘t seal properly, the contents will not be safe to eat. You can try to reprocess the jar, but if it still doesn’t seal, discard the contents.
Q: Can I use a water bath canner to can peach pie filling?
A: No, water bath canning is not recommended for fruits like peaches. Pressure canning is the only safe method for preserving low-acid fruits.
