Introduction

Peach butter is a delightful spread that captures the flavors of ripe peaches in a smooth, creamy texture. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy sweet, fruity spreads on their morning toast or as a filling in desserts. Using a slow cooker makes the process effortless, allowing the peaches to cook down beautifully while you attend to other tasks.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Fresh peaches – 6 cups, peeled and diced
Sugar – 2 cups
Lemon juice – 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Total Time: 7-8 hours (including prep)
Yield: Approximately 6 cups of peach butter

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Peaches

Start by selecting ripe peaches. Wash them thoroughly, then peel off the skins. You can use a knife or a peeler for this. After peeling, chop the peaches into small pieces.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Place the chopped peaches into the slow cooker. Add sugar, lemon juice, and spices (such as cinnamon or nutmeg) according to your taste preferences. Stir the mixture well to ensure the sugar and spices are evenly distributed.

Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to the low heat setting. Allow the mixture to cook for 6 to 8 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help break down the peaches.

Blend the Mixture

After the cooking time, the peaches should be soft and the mixture should be thickened. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only part of the mixture.

Cook for Additional Thickness

If you want a thicker peach butter, turn the slow cooker to the high setting and let it cook uncovered for an additional 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until it thickens to your liking.

Jar the Peach Butter

Once the peach butter is ready, remove it from the slow cooker. Transfer it to sterilized jars while it’s still hot. Leave some space at the top of each jar, then seal with lids.

Cool and Store

Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or in the freezer for longer storage.

Notes

Peach Selection

Choose ripe, fragrant peaches for optimal flavor and sweetness.

Sugar Adjustment

Adjust the amount of sugar based on the natural sweetness of the peaches used.

Spice Variations

Feel free to experiment with spices like cardamom or vanilla to enhance flavor.

Storage Tips

Ensure jars are properly sealed for longer shelf life. For extended storage, freezing is recommended.

Usage Ideas

Peach butter is delicious on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for pastries.

Cook techniques

Choosing ripe peaches

Selecting ripe peaches is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your peach butter. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma.

Preparing the peaches

Wash the peaches thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. After washing, peel the peaches to ensure a smooth texture in the final product.

Using a slow cooker

A slow cooker is essential for making peach butter, as it allows the flavors to meld over a long cooking period. Set your slow cooker to low for an extended cook time to achieve the desired consistency.

Mashing the peaches

Once the peaches are cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to puree the mixture. This step is important for achieving a smooth, buttery texture.

Adjusting sweetness

Taste the peach mixture before finalizing the recipe. If it’s not sweet enough, consider adding sugar or alternative sweeteners to enhance the flavor.

Canning and storing

If you want to preserve your peach butter for later use, consider canning it in sterilized jars. Ensure the jars are sealed properly to prevent spoilage.

FAQ

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Yes, frozen peaches can be used, but they may require additional cooking time to reach the desired consistency.

How long can I store peach butter?

If properly canned, peach butter can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks.

Can I add spices to my peach butter?

Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla are excellent additions that can enhance the flavor of your peach butter.

Is peach butter suitable for those with dietary restrictions?

Peach butter can be made without added sugar for those watching their sugar intake. Always check the ingredients for any potential allergens.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use a stovetop method, but you’ll need to monitor it closely to prevent burning and ensure it thickens properly.

Conclusion

Peach butter is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or even incorporating into various recipes. Its smooth texture and rich taste make it a versatile addition to your pantry. Preparing it in a slow cooker not only saves time but also enhances the depth of flavor as the ingredients meld together over hours of gentle cooking. Enjoy this homemade treat throughout the year, capturing the essence of summer peaches.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Yummy Peach Butter on Toast

Spread peach butter on warm, toasted bread for a simple yet delicious breakfast.

Peach Butter Pancakes

Drizzle peach butter over fluffy pancakes for a sweet twist on your morning stack.

Peach Butter BBQ Sauce

Combine peach butter with your favorite BBQ sauce for a fruity glaze on grilled meats.

Peach Butter Yogurt Parfait

Layer peach butter with yogurt and granola for a refreshing and healthy parfait.

Peach Butter Ice Cream Topping

Use peach butter as a delightful topping for vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.

Peach Butter Oatmeal

Stir a spoonful of peach butter into your morning oatmeal for added sweetness and flavor.