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Homemade Vanilla Bean Peach Preserves with Lemon Zest

vanilla bean peach preserves - featured image

A delicious and easy recipe for homemade peach preserves infused with vanilla bean and brightened with fresh lemon zest. Perfect for spreading on toast, yogurt, or ice cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • Zest of 2 medium lemons
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split lengthwise
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peaches by scoring an ‘X’ on the bottom of each and blanching in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to slip off skins easily. Pit and chop into 1-inch pieces.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir gently and let sit for 10-15 minutes to macerate.
  3. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both seeds and pod to the pot.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, stirring every few minutes and mashing some peaches for desired texture.
  5. Test for set by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering and check every 5 minutes.
  6. Remove the vanilla bean pod and stir in the lemon zest.
  7. Ladle the hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal tightly, and allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or processing for longer storage.

Notes

Blanch peaches to easily remove skins. Avoid adding vanilla extract during cooking to preserve aroma; add at the end if using extract. Use the wrinkle test on a chilled plate to check set. Stir gently to maintain some peach chunks or mash for smoother preserves. Sterilize jars before filling. For longer storage, process jars in a water bath canner.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach preserves, vanilla bean, lemon zest, homemade jam, summer fruit preserves, easy preserves recipe, peach jam, fruit preserves