Old-Fashioned Peach Butter Recipe

Making old-fashioned peach butter is one of the most satisfying ways to preserve the fresh taste of summer. Rich, velvety, and bursting with peach flavor, this spreadable treat is simpler than jam and doesn’t require pectin. Whether slathered on toast, spooned over pancakes, or gifted in a mason jar, homemade peach butter is a timeless favorite you’ll want to make every year.

Unlike jam, which includes chunks and a more syrupy texture, peach butter is cooked slowly and blended until silky smooth. It’s the perfect preserve for those who love the taste of peaches but prefer a spread that’s refined and fuss-free. For food preservation guidance, it’s always best to follow safe home canning methods as outlined by the National Center for Home Food Preservation.

Before diving into the method, remember that seasonal selection is key. For best results, use peaches that are fragrant, ripe, and juicy. To help you pick the perfect peaches, the Pick Your Own seasonal guide offers a helpful overview of when peaches are at their peak ripeness in your area.

Ingredients for the Perfect Peach Butter

Gather your ingredients before starting. Simplicity is key in this vintage fruit preserve.

• 5 lbs of fresh ripe peaches (freestone peaches are easiest to use)
• 1 ½ to 2 cups of granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (for acidity and preservation)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• Optional: 1 tbsp vanilla extract or 2 tbsp honey

Tools You’ll Need

To make peach butter like grandma used to, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools:

• Slow cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot
• Food mill, immersion blender, or standard blender
• Large bowl for peach preparation
• Wooden spoon
• Mason jars with lids for canning
• Jar lifter and canning funnel (if preserving)

Preparing the Peaches

Perfect peach butter begins with proper preparation. Here’s how to handle your fruit like a pro:

• Wash peaches thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
• Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. Skins should peel off easily.
• Pit and slice the peaches. Discard pits and any bruised or overly mushy parts.
• Prevent browning by tossing slices with lemon juice as you work.

The Slow Cook Method

The slow cooker is your best friend for old-fashioned peach butter. It cooks the fruit evenly and draws out the natural sugars.

1. Place peeled, sliced peaches in the slow cooker.
2. Add sugar, lemon juice, and spices.
3. Cook on low for 8–10 hours with the lid slightly ajar (this helps moisture escape).
4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
5. Once the mixture is deep orange and thick, it’s ready for blending.

Stovetop Alternative

Don’t have a slow cooker? You can make peach butter on the stovetop too.

• Use a large, non-reactive pot.
• Cook over low heat, stirring often.
• Expect a 2–3 hour simmer to achieve the right consistency.
• Keep an eye on the bottom to avoid scorching.

Blending and Final Reduction

Once your peaches have broken down:

• Use an immersion blender for a silky texture directly in the pot.
• Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender (careful—it’s hot!).
• Continue simmering, uncovered, until the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape on a spoon.

Taste and adjust spices if needed. A dash more cinnamon or a spoonful of honey can add warmth or sweetness.

Canning and Storing Your Peach Butter

If you’re making a large batch, preserving is a great option.

• Sterilize your jars in boiling water.
• Fill jars with hot peach butter, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
• Wipe rims, apply lids, and process in a hot water bath for 10 minutes.
• Allow to cool for 12 hours, checking for proper seals.
• Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Refrigerate after opening. It will stay fresh for 2–3 weeks.

How to Use Peach Butter

Peach butter is versatile and delicious. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Spread on toast, English muffins, or biscuits
• Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt
• Serve alongside cheese boards
• Use as a glaze for roasted pork or chicken
• Add to baked goods like thumbprint cookies or cakes

Variations and Additions

Customize your peach butter with fun flavor twists:

• Vanilla bean peach butter – scrape in a real vanilla pod
• Bourbon peach butter – add 2 tbsp of bourbon near the end
• Honey-sweetened – swap sugar for raw or local honey
• Spicy peach butter – add a pinch of cayenne for heat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here’s what to watch out for during the process:

• Using underripe peaches – results in bland, mealy butter
• Overcooking – causes bitterness and reduces yield
• Skipping sterilization – leads to spoilage during storage
• Skipping lemon juice – affects flavor and shelf stability

Nutritional Info and Dietary Tips

On average, 1 tablespoon of peach butter contains:

• About 35–45 calories
• 9g of natural and added sugars
• No fat, gluten, or dairy

Tips:

• For keto or low-sugar diets, reduce or skip sugar and cook longer to concentrate sweetness.
• This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does homemade peach butter last?
Properly canned, it can last up to 12 months in a cool pantry. Refrigerated, it stays good for 2–3 weeks after opening.

Can I make peach butter without sugar?
Yes! Just cook longer to reduce the natural juices. The result will be slightly less thick and not as sweet.

Do I need to peel peaches for peach butter?
It’s highly recommended for smooth texture, but not mandatory. Blending may reduce the effect of the skins if left on.

Can I freeze peach butter instead of canning it?
Absolutely. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. It lasts 6–9 months frozen.

Why is it called “peach butter”?
The name refers to the buttery texture, not the ingredients. It spreads like butter and has a rich, smooth feel.

What’s the difference between peach butter and peach jam?
Peach butter is thicker, smoother, and more intensely flavored due to longer cooking without added pectin.

Let me know if you’d like this exported as a downloadable file or optimized for a specific platform like WordPress!