Vanilla Honey Peach Butter: The Sweet Spread of Summer

Looking to preserve the taste of ripe summer peaches in a jar? Vanilla Honey Peach Butter is the ultimate way to lock in that seasonal flavor. It’s not only rich, velvety, and naturally sweet, but also incredibly versatile—from spreading on toast to swirling into yogurt. If you’ve never tried fruit butter before, you’re in for a treat that’s simpler to make than jam and bursting with flavor.

Unlike jams or jellies, fruit butters are made by slow-cooking fruit until it’s thick and spreadable, without any added pectin. This makes them a favorite for home cooks who want a natural, rustic preserve. According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation, fruit butters are an excellent entry point for beginner canners. And if you’re looking for reliable advice on technique, Food in Jars offers expert tips for safe and effective small-batch preserving.

What Is Fruit Butter?

Fruit butter is a thick, spreadable mixture made by cooking fruit until most of its moisture evaporates. Unlike jams:

• It doesn’t contain added pectin.
• It’s smoother in texture—think thick applesauce consistency.
• It often contains less sugar, letting the natural fruit flavor shine.

While apple butter is the most common, peach butter offers a brighter, sunnier profile, especially when paired with honey and real vanilla bean.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make Vanilla Honey Peach Butter, you’ll need simple, whole ingredients:

• Peaches: Use ripe, in-season fruit. Freestone peaches work best because they’re easier to pit.
• Vanilla beans or paste: Real vanilla brings out floral undertones in the peaches.
• Honey: Adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the natural sugars of the fruit.
• Sugar: Helps with preservation and texture.
• Optional add-ins:
  • Cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
  • A splash of lemon juice for acidity

Tip: Choose ripe, aromatic peaches with no bruises or blemishes for the best flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Before diving in, gather your tools:

• Heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
• Blender or food processor
• Canning jars with new lids and rings
• Water bath canner or large stockpot
• Jar grabber, lid lifter, and wide-mouth funnel

Having everything set up in advance makes the process smoother and safer.

How to Make Vanilla Honey Peach Butter

Making peach butter is a slow, cozy process. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

1. Prep the Peaches
   • Wash, pit, and slice peaches. Peeling is optional.
   • Add to a pot with 1/4 cup water and simmer until soft (about 15 minutes).
2. Blend
   • Puree the soft fruit using a blender or food processor until smooth.
3. Flavor and Thicken
   • Return puree to the pot.
   • Stir in sugar, honey, and vanilla.
   • Simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring often. It should mound on a spoon.
4. Taste and Adjust
   • Add more honey or vanilla as desired.
   • Remove vanilla bean pods before canning.

Water Bath Canning Method

Canning allows you to store your peach butter for up to a year. Follow these steps:

• Sterilize jars in boiling water for 10 minutes.
• Ladle hot butter into jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
• Wipe rims, place lids, and screw on rings.
• Process in boiling water for 5 minutes (adjust time for altitude).
• Cool jars on a rack for 24 hours, then check seals.

Only sealed jars should be stored in the pantry. Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within a month.

No-Canning Alternative

If you prefer not to can:

• Store the cooled butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Use within 3–4 weeks.
• This method is perfect for small batches or first-timers.

Storage Tips

For best results:

• Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
• Avoid jars that lose their seal or show signs of spoilage.
• Always label jars with date of preparation.

Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a month.

Creative Ways to Use Vanilla Honey Peach Butter

Wondering what to do with all that delicious spread? Try these ideas:

• Spread on toast, bagels, or English muffins
• Swirl into Greek yogurt or oatmeal
• Use as a glaze on pork tenderloin or grilled chicken
• Add to thumbprint cookies or pastry fillings
• Serve with cheese boards for a sweet contrast

Its natural sweetness and creamy texture make it ideal for both sweet and savory pairings.

Flavor Variations

Customize your peach butter with these twists:

• Cinnamon Peach Butter – Add 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Bourbon Peach Butter – Stir in 2 tbsp bourbon for depth
• Ginger-Peach Butter – Add 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• Low-Sugar Version – Reduce sugar and rely more on honey or fruit-only sweetness

Experimenting with small batches is a great way to find your perfect version.

FAQs

Can you make peach butter without peeling the peaches?
Yes! The skins soften during cooking and blend smoothly.

How long does homemade peach butter last?
Up to a year when properly canned and stored. Refrigerated versions last about a month.

Is peach butter the same as peach jam?
No. Peach butter is smoother, less sweet, and contains no pectin.

Can I freeze peach butter instead of canning it?
Absolutely. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.

What’s the difference between fruit butter and puree?
Fruit butter is reduced and thickened for spreadability, while puree is simply blended fruit.

Why use honey instead of just sugar?
Honey adds natural sweetness and a floral complexity that pairs beautifully with peaches and vanilla.

Final Thoughts

Making Vanilla Honey Peach Butter is a rewarding way to enjoy the essence of summer all year long. Whether you’re new to canning or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Use it as a gift, a breakfast staple, or a secret ingredient in your next dessert.

Ready to get started? Grab some fresh peaches and transform them into golden jars of sunshine.