Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Name: Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 quarts fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, sliced); 7 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups cold water; 1¾ cups cook-type Clear Jel; 5¼ cups peach juice or water; ½ cup bottled lemon juice; Ground cinnamon and nutmeg (optional)

Published: August 9, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe uses straightforward steps that anyone can follow, making it perfect for beginners.
Versatile Usage: Use it in various desserts such as pies, crumbles, or even as a topping for ice cream.
Long-lasting Flavor: Canning preserves the flavor and quality of peaches, allowing you to enjoy them long after summer has ended.
Customizable Spices: Add your favorite spices to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.
Perfect for Gifting: Homemade canned goods make thoughtful gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with your peach pie filling, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Canning jars (quart-size)
Large pot
Boiling water bath canner
Ladle
Sterilizing equipment (e.g., dishwasher or boiling water)

Importance of Each Tool

Canning jars: Essential for storing your peach filling safely and securely.
Large pot: Needed to prepare the filling base efficiently without spills.
Boiling water bath canner: Ensures safe preservation by processing jars at high temperatures.

Ingredients

This homemade canned peach pie filling is a sweet, spiced preserve made with fresh peaches and a thick, silky base—perfect for baking pies, crisps, or cobblers year-round. With this easy water bath canning method, you can enjoy the flavor of summer peaches even in winter.

Ingredients (for 4–5 quarts)
6 quarts fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 24–30 medium peaches)
7 cups granulated sugar
2 cups cold water
1¾ cups clear jel (cook-type, not instant)
5¼ cups peach juice or water (from peaches or bottled)
½ cup bottled lemon juice
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional)
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare Jars

Wash and sterilize 4–5 quart-size canning jars. Keep them warm until you’re ready to fill them with the peach mixture.

Step 2: Prepare Peaches

Blanch the peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath. Once cooled, peel, pit, and slice them. To prevent browning, soak the slices in water mixed with lemon juice or ascorbic acid.

Step 3: Blanch Slices

Boil the sliced peaches in batches for about 1 minute. Drain them well and keep them warm while you prepare the filling base.

Step 4: Make Filling Base

In a large pot, whisk together granulated sugar and clear jel. Gradually stir in 2 cups of cold water along with 5¼ cups of peach juice (or water). Cook over medium-high heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles appear.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices

Stir in bottled lemon juice along with optional cinnamon and nutmeg. Bring everything back to a boil for about 1 minute.

Step 6: Add Peaches

Gently fold in your warm peach slices into the thickened mixture. Return it all to a boil while stirring gently to mix everything evenly.

Step 7: Fill Jars

Using a ladle, fill each warm jar with hot filling while leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a spatula around the inside edges of the jar. Wipe down the rims before sealing each jar with lids and bands.

Step 8: Process Jars

Place filled jars into your boiling water bath canner. Process them for about 30 minutes; adjust time based on altitude if necessary.

Step 9: Cool and Store

After processing time is complete, let jars sit undisturbed for about 12–24 hours at room temperature. After they cool down completely, check seals before labeling and storing them in a cool dark place where they will last up to one year.

How to Serve Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Homemade canned peach pie filling is versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re planning a dessert for a special occasion or just looking for a sweet treat, here are some serving suggestions to inspire you.

Classic Peach Pie

Use your homemade filling to create a traditional peach pie. Simply pour the filling into a prepared crust, cover with another crust or lattice, and bake until golden brown.

Peach Cobbler

Transform your canned filling into a delicious cobbler by topping it with biscuit dough before baking. This cozy dessert is perfect served warm with ice cream.

Peach Crisp

Layer your filling in a baking dish and top it with a mixture of oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter. Bake until bubbly and golden for an easy yet impressive dessert.

Ice Cream Topping

Spoon the peach pie filling over vanilla ice cream for a quick and delightful sundae. The warm filling contrasts beautifully with the cold ice cream.

Pancake or Waffle Topping

Drizzle the peach pie filling over pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast twist. Add whipped cream or yogurt for extra indulgence.

Yogurt Parfait

Layer your peach pie filling with granola and yogurt in a glass. This makes for a tasty breakfast or snack that’s both healthy and satisfying.

How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

To ensure you achieve the best results when making homemade canned peach pie filling, consider these helpful tips.

Choose ripe peaches: Selecting ripe peaches will enhance the flavor of your filling. Look for fruits that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch.
Sterilize jars properly: Ensuring your jars are clean and sterilized prevents contamination, which is crucial for safe canning.
Use clear jel only: Always use cook-type Clear Jel for thickening, as it holds up well during canning compared to cornstarch.
Adjust acidity carefully: Adding bottled lemon juice is essential for maintaining proper acidity levels, which helps prevent spoilage.
Leave adequate headspace: Make sure to leave 1 inch of headspace in each jar to allow for expansion during processing.
Cool jars slowly: Let your filled jars sit undisturbed after processing to ensure proper sealing and prevent breakage.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Pairing side dishes with your homemade canned peach pie filling can enhance any meal. Here are some delicious options that complement the sweetness of the peaches.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the peaches while providing a creamy texture.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds an airy touch that works beautifully with peach desserts.
Scones: Serve warm scones alongside your peach dish for an elegant tea-time treat.
Cinnamon Roll Muffins: These sweet muffins add spice that pairs well with fruity flavors.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer savory contrast against the sweet pie filling—try sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens provides balance to rich desserts with its crispness.
Crumb Cake: This moist cake complements fruit-based desserts nicely while adding texture to your meal.
Pecan Pie Bars: Combining two beloved desserts in one meal can satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade canned peach pie filling can be simple, but there are common missteps that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Not sterilizing jars properly: If jars aren’t properly sterilized, it can lead to spoilage. Always wash and sterilize jars before use to ensure safety.
Using instant Clear Jel: Using the wrong type of Clear Jel can compromise your filling’s texture. Stick to cook-type Clear Jel for safe and effective thickening.
Skipping the lemon juice: Omitting bottled lemon juice can affect acidity levels and safety. Always include it for proper preservation and flavor.
Overfilling jars: Filling jars too full can prevent a proper seal. Leave at least 1 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during processing.
Ignoring altitude adjustments: Failing to adjust processing times for high altitudes can result in undercooked fillings. Check local guidelines and adjust accordingly.

Refrigerator Storage

Homemade canned peach pie filling lasts up to 1 week in the refrigerator if opened.
Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

You can freeze homemade peach pie filling for up to 1 year.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the filling in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Transfer filling into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.
Stovetop: Pour the filling into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store homemade canned peach pie filling?

Homemade canned peach pie filling can be stored for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place if sealed properly.

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones are unavailable; however, ensure they are thawed and drained before using them in your filling.

What is the best way to thicken homemade canned peach pie filling?

Using cook-type Clear Jel is recommended as it provides the best thickness while ensuring safety during the canning process.

Can I customize my peach pie filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like allspice or ginger or even a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Is it safe to can without lemon juice?

No, omitting lemon juice risks improper acidity levels which may lead to spoilage. Always include bottled lemon juice for safety.

Final Thoughts

This homemade canned peach pie filling is a delightful way to preserve summer’s sweetness. Its versatility allows you to use it not only in pies but also in cobblers and crisps throughout the year. Feel free to customize flavors or spice levels according to your preference—your options are endless! Try making this delicious preserve today!

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