Imagine waking up to the sweet, fresh taste of strawberry peach jam on your morning toast. You can make this delicious treat right at home with just a few simple ingredients.
This Strawberry Peach Jam Recipe is easy to follow, even if you’ve never made jam before. You’ll love how the natural flavors come together, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness. Keep reading, and you’ll discover tips and tricks that will help you make your own batch that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
Ready to turn your fruit into something unforgettable? Let’s get started!
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Ingredients For Strawberry Peach Jam
Making strawberry peach jam requires a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in flavor and texture. Freshness matters most for the best taste.
Gathering the right ingredients ensures your jam is sweet, smooth, and perfectly balanced. Let’s explore what you need to prepare this delicious treat.
Fresh Strawberries
Choose ripe, red strawberries. They add natural sweetness and a vibrant color. Wash and hull them before use.
Juicy Peaches
Peaches should be soft but firm. They bring a lovely aroma and a slight tartness. Peel and dice them carefully.
Sugar
Sugar helps preserve the jam and enhances sweetness. Use granulated white sugar for best results. Adjust amount to taste.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice balances sweetness with a fresh tang. It also helps the jam set properly. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Pectin (optional)
Pectin is a natural thickener. It helps the jam reach the right consistency faster. Use only if your fruit is low in natural pectin.
Choosing Fresh Strawberries And Peaches
Choosing fresh strawberries and peaches is key for a delicious jam. Fresh fruits give the best flavor and natural sweetness. They also help the jam set properly. Picking ripe and quality fruits makes your jam taste homemade and fresh.
How To Pick Fresh Strawberries
Choose strawberries that are bright red all over. Avoid berries with white or green tips. Pick firm strawberries without soft spots or mold. Smell the strawberries for a sweet aroma. The smell shows they are ripe and tasty.
How To Select Ripe Peaches
Look for peaches with a deep color and a slight give. Avoid hard peaches that feel firm to the touch. Avoid peaches with bruises or dark spots. A fresh peach has a fruity smell near the stem. This means it is ripe and ready.
Why Freshness Matters For Jam
Fresh strawberries and peaches have more natural sugars. This helps the jam taste sweet without extra sugar. Fresh fruits also have better texture and juice. Using fresh fruit makes your jam smooth and flavorful.
Preparing The Fruit
Preparing the fruit is the first step to a delicious strawberry peach jam. Fresh, clean fruit makes your jam taste better. It also helps the jam last longer. Take time to prepare the strawberries and peaches carefully. This ensures the best flavor and texture for your jam.
Start by cleaning the fruit thoroughly. Then, cut them into the right size for cooking. Proper preparation helps the fruit cook evenly. It also releases natural sweetness and flavor. Follow these simple steps for the best results.
Washing And Hulling Strawberries
Rinse strawberries under cold water to remove dirt. Do not soak them. Strawberries absorb water quickly and can become mushy. Gently pat them dry with a clean towel. Remove the green tops by cutting or pinching them off. This is called hulling. Check each berry for bruises or soft spots. Use only fresh, firm strawberries for your jam.
Peeling And Slicing Peaches
Peaches need peeling before cooking. Boil water and prepare an ice bath. Dip peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds. Then move them to the ice bath. The skin will loosen and peel off easily. Slice the peeled peaches into small pieces. Remove the pit from each peach slice. Small slices cook faster and mix well with strawberries. This creates a smooth jam texture.
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Cooking The Jam
Cooking the jam is the heart of making delicious strawberry peach jam. This step transforms fresh fruit into a sweet, thick spread. It takes some time and attention but is very rewarding. The process involves mixing ingredients, cooking them carefully, and checking the texture. Follow these simple steps to make your jam perfect.
Combining Fruit And Sugar
Start by washing and chopping fresh strawberries and peaches. Place them in a large pot. Add the right amount of sugar to the fruit. Sugar helps bring out the natural sweetness and preserves the jam. Stir the mixture well to combine fruit and sugar evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps the sugar dissolve and draws juice from the fruit.
Adding Lemon Juice For Flavor And Preservation
Next, add fresh lemon juice to the pot. Lemon juice balances the sweetness and adds a fresh taste. It also helps the jam set by activating natural pectin in the fruit. Use about one tablespoon of lemon juice for every two cups of fruit. Stir the mixture to blend the flavors evenly. Lemon juice keeps your jam safe to store for longer periods.
Simmering To The Perfect Consistency
Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir often to prevent the jam from sticking or burning. As it cooks, the jam will thicken and change color. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. Test the jam’s consistency by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, the jam is ready. Turn off the heat and let it cool before storing.
Testing Jam Doneness
Testing jam doneness is a key step in making perfect strawberry peach jam. It ensures the jam has the right texture and thickness. The jam should set well but still be spreadable. Knowing when the jam is done helps avoid runny or overly hard results. Two common methods help check jam doneness accurately.
Plate Test Method
Take a cold plate from the freezer. Place a small spoonful of hot jam on the plate. Let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam. If the jam wrinkles and stays separated, it is ready. If it is too runny or fills back quickly, cook it longer. This simple test shows the jam’s set point clearly.
Temperature Test Using A Thermometer
Use a candy or jam thermometer for best results. Insert it into the boiling jam carefully. The jam sets at around 220°F (104°C). When the jam reaches this temperature, it has the right consistency. Remove from heat immediately. Too high temperature can cause hard jam. This method gives precise control over jam doneness.
Canning And Storing Jam
Canning and storing your strawberry peach jam keeps it fresh and tasty for months. Proper steps help avoid spoilage and maintain flavor. Follow these simple methods to enjoy your homemade jam safely.
Sterilizing Jars
Clean jars and lids with hot, soapy water. Rinse well to remove soap. Boil jars and lids in water for 10 minutes. Use tongs to remove and place them on a clean towel. Keep jars hot until ready to fill. This kills germs and prevents mold.
Filling And Sealing
Pour the hot jam into warm jars. Leave about 1/4 inch space at the top. Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth. Place the lids on jars and screw on bands until tight. Process jars in boiling water for 10 minutes. This seals the jars and stops air from entering.
Storage Tips
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Avoid direct sunlight and heat. Check jars after 24 hours to ensure lids are sealed. If lids pop up, refrigerate and use jam soon. Open jars last 2 to 3 weeks in the fridge. Proper storage keeps your jam fresh and safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry peach jam is a sweet treat that fits many meals. It shines beyond just spreading on toast. The jam’s fresh, fruity flavor adds a bright touch to many dishes. Here are some easy ways to enjoy it.
Breakfast Ideas
Spread the jam on warm toast or English muffins. It pairs well with butter or cream cheese. Mix a spoonful into plain yogurt for a quick fruit boost. Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles. Add a dollop to oatmeal for extra sweetness and flavor.
Dessert Pairings
Swirl the jam into vanilla ice cream for a fruity twist. Use it as a filling in cakes or cupcakes. Spoon over cheesecake for a fresh, colorful topping. Mix with whipped cream to top pies or tarts. Serve with shortbread cookies for a simple treat.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Making strawberry peach jam can sometimes bring small challenges. These problems can affect the texture and taste. Fixing them is easier than you think. Here are some common issues and ways to solve them.
Jam Too Runny
Runny jam means it did not set properly. This can happen if the fruit has too much water. Cooking time might be too short. Try cooking the jam longer to let more liquid evaporate. Use a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 220°F (104°C). Adding a little more pectin can also help. Stir well and test the jam by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it is ready.
Crystallization Problems
Crystals in jam create a grainy texture. This happens if sugar is not fully dissolved. Stir the jam well while cooking. Avoid rapid cooling, as it encourages crystals to form. Pour the hot jam into jars carefully. Add a small piece of butter to the pot to reduce foam and crystals. Keep the jam sealed tightly to prevent moisture from entering. Store in a cool, dark place for best results.
Variations And Additions
Strawberry peach jam is a sweet treat that many enjoy. You can change its flavor with simple twists. Variations and additions help create unique tastes. These small changes make the jam special and personal.
Adding Spices
Spices bring warmth and depth to your jam. Try cinnamon for a cozy touch. A pinch of nutmeg adds a hint of earthiness. Ginger gives a little spicy kick. Each spice changes the jam’s flavor in a nice way. Add just a small amount at first. Taste and adjust to find your favorite blend.
Using Alternative Sweeteners
Traditional sugar is common in jam recipes. You can use honey for a natural sweetness. Maple syrup offers a rich, smooth taste. Agave syrup is mild and blends well. These sweeteners change the jam’s flavor and texture. They can also make your jam healthier. Use the same amount as sugar or less, depending on your taste.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Are Needed For Strawberry Peach Jam?
You need fresh strawberries, ripe peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin for this jam. These ingredients balance sweetness and help with preservation.
How Long Does Homemade Strawberry Peach Jam Last?
Stored in sterilized jars, this jam lasts up to 1 year unopened. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3 weeks for best taste.
Can I Use Frozen Fruit For Strawberry Peach Jam?
Yes, frozen fruit works well if fresh isn’t available. Thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking to maintain proper jam consistency.
What Is The Best Way To Store Strawberry Peach Jam?
Store jam in airtight, sterilized glass jars. Keep unopened jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening to extend shelf life.
Conclusion
Strawberry peach jam brings sweet and fresh flavors together. It’s simple to make with just a few ingredients. You can enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or as a dessert topping. This recipe saves money and tastes better than store-bought jam.
Try making a batch today and share it with friends or family. Homemade jam adds a personal touch to any meal. Give it a go and enjoy the delicious results!
