Honey-Sweetened Peach Jam: Reasons You'll Love This Southern Classic

Honey Sweetened Peach Jam: A Naturally Sweet Spread

Making your own jam is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh, seasonal fruit in a wholesome, homemade format. This version skips refined sugar in favor of raw honey, resulting in a sweet, golden jam that brings out the natural richness and deep flavor of ripe summer peaches.

Whether spooned onto warm toast or used in baking, this jam offers a lovely way to preserve peaches long after their season has passed. It’s also a tasty companion to peach-forward recipes like peach cobbler egg rolls or comforting baked items like sweet potato cornbread.

Why Use Honey Instead of Sugar?

Honey adds more than just sweetness—it contributes subtle floral undertones, additional nutrients, and a smoother texture than white sugar.

Here’s why honey is an excellent alternative:

Rich in antioxidants and enzymes

Lower glycemic index than refined sugar

Blends seamlessly with fruit

Helps retain fruit color and aroma

Love natural sweeteners? Check out this honey cake recipe for another way to enjoy the benefits of honey in your cooking.

Ingredients & Tools

Before starting, gather your supplies. The process is simple, and the right setup makes it even smoother.

Ingredients

6 cups chopped fresh peaches (peeled and pitted)

1 cup raw honey

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Basic Equipment

Large pot or saucepan with a heavy bottom

Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Jar funnel and ladle

Immersion blender or masher

Water bath canner or a large deep pot

Sterilized mason jars and lids

Jar lifter and tongs

Jam making is straightforward—you don’t need specialty gadgets, but having clean tools and a well-organized workspace helps ensure success.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Peel and Prep the Peaches

Begin by placing the peaches in boiling water for about 45 seconds, then quickly transfer them to a bowl of cold water. This method loosens the skins, making them easier to peel without damaging the flesh.

Once peeled, remove the pits and chop the fruit into small chunks. Measure out six cups and place them in your pot.

2. Add Lemon Juice and Simmer

Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the chopped fruit. Lemon juice provides acidity, which balances the sweetness and helps the jam set properly during cooking.

Begin heating the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

3. Soften and Blend

As the fruit cooks, it will start to break down. At this point, blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender, or mash it manually if you prefer a chunkier texture. Continue simmering for 25 to 35 minutes, until the jam thickens.

4. Test for Doneness

To check if your jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate from the freezer. Wait a few seconds, then gently run your finger through it. If the surface holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, the jam is ready to jar.

5. Stir in the Honey

Turn the heat to low and mix in 1 cup of raw honey. Stir for 5 minutes to ensure it fully incorporates. Avoid adding honey too early, as long boiling can reduce its flavor and benefits.

Canning Your Jam

1. Prepare Jars

Wash your jars and lids in warm soapy water, then immerse them in hot (not boiling) water for a few minutes to sterilize. Let them drain on a clean cloth or rack until completely dry.

2. Fill and Seal

Using a funnel, ladle the hot jam into jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during processing. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and screw on the bands until just snug.

3. Process the Jars

Carefully lower the jars into a boiling water bath and process them for 10 minutes. Remove them with a jar lifter and place on a heat-safe surface away from drafts.

Let the jars sit without moving them for 12 to 24 hours. Afterward, check that each lid has sealed by pressing down in the center—there should be no movement.

Properly sealed jars can be stored in a pantry for up to one year.

Delicious Ways to Use This Jam

You’ll find this jam pairs well with:

Toast or scones

Greek yogurt parfaits

Oatmeal or overnight oats

Cheese platters

Thumbprint cookies or tarts

It also makes a wonderful addition to baked items like sweet potato cornbread, turning a simple dish into something special.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with extra ingredients:

Vanilla Peach Jam: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract after cooking

Ginger Peach Jam: Grate 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger into the pot

Peach Chia Jam: Stir in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds after blending

Warm Spiced Jam: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for complexity

Troubleshooting Tips

A few simple precautions will ensure your jam turns out perfectly:

Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor and consistency

Don’t skip lemon juice—it’s essential for balance and preservation

Avoid overcooking, which can result in overly thick or sticky jam

Always sanitize jars and tools to prevent contamination

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes—just thaw and drain them before use.

Is pectin needed?

Not for this recipe. Peaches and lemon juice contain enough natural pectin.

How long will the jam last?

Unopened jars will keep up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2 to 3 weeks.

Can I double the recipe?

For best results, make two separate batches. Doubling may affect cook time and consistency.

Final Thoughts

This honey sweetened peach jam is a healthy and flavorful way to preserve summer’s bounty. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, it offers a refined sugar-free option that’s rich, golden, and bursting with peach flavor.

For more peach-inspired creations, explore peach cobbler egg rolls or pair your jam with slices of sweet potato cornbread for a comforting, balanced bite.