This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to preserve the taste of summer peaches. Itβs perfect for creating delicious pies, crisps, or cobblers any time of the year. The homemade filling combines fresh flavors with a silky texture, ensuring every dessert is bursting with sweetness. Whether youβre baking for a holiday gathering or just treating yourself, this filling will impress your family and friends.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Simple Process: The step-by-step method makes it easy for anyone to follow, even if youβre new to canning.
- Delicious Flavor: Using fresh peaches ensures your filling has a vibrant taste that store-bought versions canβt match.
- Versatile Use: This filling isnβt just for pies; use it in crumbles, tarts, or as a topping for ice cream.
- Year-Round Enjoyment: Canning allows you to savor the essence of summer fruits throughout winter.
- Gift-Worthy: Jars of peach pie filling make thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
Tools and Preparation
To make this homemade canned peach pie filling, youβll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Canning jars (quart-size)
- Water bath canner
- Ladle
- Jar lifter
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking your filling evenly and preventing spills.
- Canning jars: These keep your peach pie filling safe and fresh for long-term storage.
- Water bath canner: Ensures proper sealing and safety through effective heat processing.
Ingredients
This homemade canned peach pie filling is a sweet, spiced preserve made with fresh peaches and a thick, silky baseβperfect for baking pies, crisps, or cobblers year-round. With this easy water bath canning method, you can enjoy the flavor of summer peaches even in winter.
Ingredients (for 4β5 quarts)
6 quarts fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 24β30 medium peaches)
7 cups granulated sugar
2 cups cold water
1ΒΎ cups clear jel (cook-type, not instant)
5ΒΌ cups peach juice or water (from peaches or bottled)
Β½ cup bottled lemon juice
1Β½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional)
Β½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
How to Make Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Step 1: Prepare Jars
Wash and sterilize 4β5 quart-size canning jars. Keep them warm until you are ready to fill them.
Step 2: Prepare Peaches
Blanch your peaches in boiling water for 30β60 seconds. Then transfer them to an ice bath. Peel, pit, and slice the peaches. To prevent browning, soak the slices in water mixed with lemon juice or ascorbic acid.
Step 3: Blanch Slices
Boil the sliced peaches in batches for 1 minute. Drain them well and keep warm until ready to add to the filling base.
Step 4: Make Filling Base
In a large pot, whisk together granulated sugar and clear jel. Slowly stir in 2 cups of cold water along with 5ΒΌ cups of peach juice or bottled water. Cook over medium-high heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins bubbling.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices
Stir in the bottled lemon juice along with ground cinnamon and nutmeg if desired. Allow the mixture to boil for an additional minute.
Step 6: Add Peaches
Gently fold in the warm peach slices into your thickened mixture. Bring it back to a boil while stirring gently.
Step 7: Fill Jars
Ladle the hot peach filling into your warm jars while leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a spatula along the edges and wipe rims clean before sealing with lids and bands.
Step 8: Process Jars
Place jars in a boiling water bath canner. Process them for about 30 minutes; adjust time based on altitude if necessary.
Step 9: Cool and Store
Allow jars to sit undisturbed for about 12β24 hours after processing. Once cool, check seals on each jar. Label them clearly before storing in a cool dark place where they will last up to one year.
How to Serve Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Homemade canned peach pie filling is versatile and can enhance a variety of desserts. Here are some delightful ways to serve it, bringing the taste of summer into your meals all year round.
On Top of Ice Cream
- Scoop and Serve: Drizzle warm peach pie filling over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae.
- Mix with Other Flavors: Combine with chocolate or caramel ice cream for a unique flavor experience.
In a Classic Peach Pie
- Classic Preparation: Use the filling as a base for a traditional peach pie, adding your favorite crust recipe.
- Double Crust Option: Top with another layer of pie crust for a double-crust delight.
As a Topping for Pancakes or Waffles
- Breakfast Treat: Pour the warm filling over fluffy pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast option.
- Add Whipped Cream: Top with whipped cream or yogurt for extra indulgence.
In Peach Cobbler
- Simple Dessert: Use the filling in your favorite cobbler recipe, adding biscuit topping or cake mix.
- Serve Warm: Always serve warm, paired with vanilla ice cream.
Mixed into Yogurt Parfaits
- Layered Delight: Layer peach filling in yogurt parfaits with granola and fresh fruits for a healthy snack.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make these parfaits ahead of time for quick breakfasts.
As an Ingredient in Smoothies
- Fruity Addition: Blend peach pie filling into smoothies for added sweetness and fruit flavor.
- Combine with Greens: Mix in spinach or kale for a nutritious boost without sacrificing taste.
How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
To ensure your homemade canned peach pie filling is always perfect, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches yield the best flavor and texture in your filling.
- Properly Sterilize Jars: Always sterilize your canning jars to prevent spoilage and ensure safety during storage.
- Adjust Sugar Levels: Depending on the sweetness of peaches, adjust sugar levels to suit your taste preferences.
- Avoid Overcooking Peaches: Blanch peaches just enough to soften them; overcooking can lead to mushiness in the final product.
- Check Acidity Levels: Use bottled lemon juice to maintain proper acidity; this helps preserve the quality and safety of your filling.
- Leave Adequate Headspace: Ensure you leave enough headspace when filling jars to allow for expansion during processing.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Pairing side dishes with homemade canned peach pie filling elevates any meal. Here are some delicious options that complement the sweet flavors perfectly.
- Savory Biscuits
Fluffy biscuits provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the peach filling; great as a side or base. - Grilled Pork Chops
The smoky flavor of grilled pork chops pairs well with sweet peaches, creating a balanced meal. - Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Rich mashed potatoes add comfort; serve them alongside peach dessert dishes for variety. - Fresh Green Salad
A crisp salad brings freshness and lightness, enhancing the richness of desserts while balancing flavors. - Crispy Fried Chicken
The crunchiness and savory notes of fried chicken make it an excellent match with sweet peach fillings. - Roasted Brussels Sprouts
The nutty flavor from roasted Brussels sprouts adds depth while contrasting nicely with sweet dishes. - Sweet Cornbread
Moist cornbread complements the sweetness, making it perfect as an accompaniment to any peach-based dessert. - Vanilla Yogurt Dip
A simple yogurt dip serves as a refreshing companion; perfect for dippers like cookies or fruits alongside peach treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Canning can be tricky, especially if youβre new to it. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making homemade canned peach pie filling.
- Skipping the Sterilization: Not sterilizing jars can lead to spoilage. Always wash and sterilize your jars before filling them to ensure safety.
- Ignoring Headspace: Filling jars too full can cause overflow during processing. Leave at least 1 inch of headspace in each jar for proper sealing and expansion.
- Using the Wrong Type of Clear Jel: Using instant Clear Jel instead of cook-type can result in a runny filling. Always opt for cook-type Clear Jel for safe canning.
- Not Adjusting for Altitude: Failing to adjust processing time for high altitudes can affect preservation. Refer to local guidelines for altitude adjustments if necessary.
- Overcooking Peaches: Cooking peaches too long can turn them mushy. Boil only until heated through before adding them to the filling base.
- Neglecting Acidity Levels: Using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled can vary acidity levels. Stick with bottled lemon juice to ensure consistent acidity and safety.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers.
- Enjoy within 1 week for best flavor.
Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Store for up to 1 year, ensuring you leave space for expansion.
Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat the filling in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until hot, usually around 3-5 minutes.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling?
Homemade canned peach pie filling is a sweet preserve made from fresh peaches, sugar, and spices that you can store and use throughout the year.
Can I use frozen peaches instead?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just thaw them before making the pie filling for best results.
How long does homemade canned peach pie filling last?
When stored properly in a cool, dark place, it lasts up to 1 year.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other spices like allspice or ginger or even mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries.
Is it safe to use cornstarch instead of Clear Jel?
No, you should not use cornstarch as it is not safe for canning. Stick with cook-type Clear Jel for safety.
Final Thoughts
This homemade canned peach pie filling is not only delicious but also versatile for many desserts. Whether you use it in pies, cobblers, or crisps, its rich flavors will brighten any dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or fruits! Try making this delightful preserve today and savor the taste of summer all year round.

Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Author: Madison
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings (for about five quarts) 1x
Description
Capture the essence of summer with this Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling, a perfect blend of sweet, juicy peaches and warm spices. Whether youβre baking a classic peach pie, whipping up a crisp, or creating a delightful cobbler, this easy-to-make filling will transform your desserts into seasonal treats, no matter the time of year. With fresh ingredients and simple instructions, even novice canners can enjoy the satisfaction of preserving these vibrant flavors. Ideal for holiday gatherings or casual indulgences, this filling is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 6 quarts fresh peaches (about 24β30 medium peaches), peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 7 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups cold water
- 1ΒΎ cups clear jel (cook-type)
- 5ΒΌ cups peach juice or water
- Β½ cup bottled lemon juice
- Optional: 1Β½ teaspoons ground cinnamon and Β½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Sterilize 4β5 quart-size canning jars; keep warm.
- Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30β60 seconds; transfer to an ice bath. Peel, pit, and slice.
- Boil peach slices for 1 minute; drain and keep warm.
- In a large pot, whisk sugar and clear jel; stir in cold water and peach juice. Cook until thickened.
- Add lemon juice and spices; boil for an additional minute.
- Gently fold in peach slices; bring back to a boil.
- Ladle hot filling into jars, leaving about an inch of headspace; seal with lids.
- Process in a boiling water bath for about 30 minutes; adjust for altitude if necessary.
- Let jars cool undisturbed for 12β24 hours before checking seals.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use ripe peaches for optimal flavor. Adjust sugar based on sweetness preference. Experiment with spices to customize your filling.