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Easy Canning Fresh Peaches in Honey Syrup

canning fresh peaches in honey syrup - featured image

A simple, beginner-friendly recipe for preserving fresh peaches in a sweet, floral honey syrup. Perfect for enjoying peaches year-round or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds fresh peaches (freestone, ripe but firm)
  • 2 cups honey (preferably mild, floral variety like clover or wildflower)
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 pint-sized Ball or Kerr canning jars (16 oz / 473 ml each), sterilized
  • Optional: cinnamon stick or vanilla bean for syrup flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peaches (20 minutes): Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Wash peaches thoroughly. Score each peach with a shallow ‘X’ at the bottom using a paring knife. Drop peaches into boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then immediately transfer to an ice water bath to loosen skin.
  2. Peel and slice peaches (15 minutes): Once cool, peel skin starting at the scored ‘X.’ Cut peaches in half, remove pits, and slice each half into 4-6 wedges. Toss slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Make the honey syrup (10 minutes): In a saucepan, combine honey and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until honey dissolves. Add optional cinnamon stick or vanilla bean to infuse flavor. Remove from heat and keep warm.
  4. Fill jars (15 minutes): Pack peach slices firmly but gently into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Pour hot honey syrup over peaches, maintaining 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles with a non-metallic spatula. Wipe rims clean and seal with lids and screw bands.
  5. Process jars (40 minutes): Place jars in boiling water bath, ensuring water covers jars by at least 1 inch. Cover and process for 40 minutes. Remove jars carefully and let cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing.

Notes

Use slightly firm peaches for best texture. Lemon juice prevents browning. Avoid overpacking jars to prevent mushy fruit. Keep syrup warm during filling. Let jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours to ensure proper seals. Optional spices like cinnamon or vanilla add flavor variations. Frozen peaches can be used but texture will differ. Maple syrup can substitute honey for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: canning, peaches, honey syrup, preserves, beginner-friendly, homemade, gift, summer fruit