This Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer. With its sweet and spiced flavors, this filling is perfect for pies, crisps, or cobblers any time of year. Canning allows you to enjoy fresh peaches long after the harvest season ends, making it an excellent choice for preserving the taste of summer. Whether you’re preparing for holiday baking or simply want a sweet treat on hand, this recipe shines with its rich flavor and smooth texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the canning process, making it accessible even for beginners.
- Versatile Usage: Perfect for pies, crisps, and more—enjoy in various desserts throughout the year.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and spices creates a mouthwatering filling that enhances any dessert.
- Long Shelf Life: Properly canned, this peach pie filling can be stored for up to a year without losing quality.
- Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives, it’s a wholesome addition to your pantry.

Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth canning experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when creating your homemade canned peach pie filling.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Canning jars (quart-size)
- Canning lids and bands
- Large pot
- Water bath canner
- Ice bath bowl
- Slotted spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Canning jars: These are essential for safely storing your peach pie filling and maintaining freshness.
- Water bath canner: Provides an even heat source needed for processing jars safely.
- Slotted spoon: Helps in transferring peaches without excess liquid, ensuring the right consistency in your filling.
Ingredients
This homemade canned peach pie filling is a sweet, spiced preserve made with fresh peaches and a thick, silky base—perfect 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 4–5 quarts)
6 quarts fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 24–30 medium peaches)
7 cups granulated sugar
2 cups cold water
1¾ cups clear jel (cook-type, not instant)
5¼ cups peach juice or water (from peaches or bottled)
½ cup bottled lemon juice
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional)
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
How to Make Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Step 1: Prepare Jars
Wash and sterilize 4–5 quart-size canning jars. Keep them warm until you’re ready to fill them.
Step 2: Prepare Peaches
Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds. Transfer them immediately to an ice bath. After cooling, peel, pit, and slice the peaches. To prevent browning during preparation, soak slices in water mixed with lemon juice or ascorbic acid.
Step 3: Blanch Slices
Boil sliced peaches in batches for 1 minute. Drain them well and keep warm.
Step 4: Make Filling Base
In a large pot, whisk together sugar and clear jel. Slowly stir in 2 cups cold water along with 5¼ cups peach juice (or water). Cook over medium-high heat while stirring constantly until thickened and bubbling.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Spices
Stir in bottled lemon juice along with optional cinnamon and nutmeg. Allow it to boil for an additional minute.
Step 6: Add Peaches
Gently fold in the warm peach slices into the thickened mixture. Return everything to a boil while stirring gently.
Step 7: Fill Jars
Ladle the hot filling into warm jars while leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a spatula around inside the jar edges. Wipe rims clean before sealing with lids and bands.
Step 8: Process Jars
Place jars in your boiling water bath canner. Process them for 30 minutes; adjust processing time if you are at a higher altitude.
Step 9: Cool and Store
Let jars sit undisturbed for about 12–24 hours post-processing. Check seals before labeling them clearly. Store in a cool dark place where they will last up to one year.
This homemade canned peach pie filling is not only great for baking but also makes an excellent gift! Enjoy this flavorful treat whenever you want a taste of summer!
How to Serve Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Homemade canned peach pie filling is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make the most of this delightful preserve.
As a Classic Pie
- Use the filling to create a traditional peach pie. Simply pour it into a pastry crust, top with another layer, and bake until golden brown.
In a Crisp or Crumble
- Combine the filling with a crumbly topping made of oats, flour, and butter for a comforting peach crisp that’s perfect with vanilla ice cream.
Over Pancakes or Waffles
- Drizzle warm peach pie filling over pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast treat that brings summer flavors to your morning routine.
With Yogurt or Ice Cream
- Spoon the filling over yogurt or ice cream for an easy dessert. The sweetness pairs perfectly with creamy textures.
In Parfaits
- Layer the peach pie filling with granola and whipped cream in a glass for an eye-catching parfait that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
How to Perfect Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Perfecting your homemade canned peach pie filling can elevate your desserts. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results.
- Use ripe peaches: Choose fresh, ripe peaches for optimal flavor and sweetness in your filling.
- Maintain acidity: Always use bottled lemon juice for consistent acidity; this ensures safety when canning.
- Avoid browning: Soak sliced peaches in lemon juice or ascorbic acid to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
- Proper headspace: Leave adequate headspace in jars; it allows for expansion during processing without compromising seals.
- Use Clear Jel: Stick with cook-type Clear Jel instead of cornstarch for safe canning practices that result in a perfect texture.
- Check seals: After cooling your jars, check the seals before storing to ensure they are airtight.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
Pairing sides with homemade canned peach pie filling can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great side dishes to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic companion, the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the sweet and spiced flavors of peach pie filling beautifully.
- Pecan Crumble Topping: Add crunch by serving pecan crumble on top of baked goods made with the filling; it adds texture and nutty flavor.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the tartness of peaches, making them an excellent partner.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream serves as a fluffy topping that enhances any dish featuring peach pie filling.
- Oatmeal: Stirring some peach pie filling into oatmeal creates a delightful breakfast option packed with flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Platter: Pairing cheese like brie or goat cheese with peach pie filling offers an elegant appetizer that balances sweet and savory notes.
- French Toast: Serve warm peach filling over French toast for an indulgent brunch treat that tastes like dessert.
- Salad Greens: Tossing greens with feta cheese and walnuts topped with warmed peach pie filling adds a unique twist to salads, combining sweet and savory elements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your homemade canned peach pie filling, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong type of Clear Jel: Always opt for cook-type Clear Jel instead of instant varieties. The cook-type ensures proper thickening during the canning process.
- Not sterilizing jars properly: Ensure that all jars are thoroughly washed and sterilized before use. This prevents bacteria from spoiling your filling.
- Skipping the lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice is essential for maintaining the right acidity level. Skipping it can lead to unsafe preserves.
- Overfilling jars: Leave at least 1 inch of headspace in each jar when filling. This allows for expansion during processing and prevents spills.
- Ignoring altitude adjustments: If you’re canning at high altitude, remember to adjust processing times accordingly. This ensures that your filling is safe and properly sealed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store opened jars in the refrigerator.
- Use within 1 week for best flavor and quality.
Freezing Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Pour unused filling into airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Freeze for up to 1 year for optimal taste.
Reheating Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place filling in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer filling to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour filling into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about homemade canned peach pie filling:
How long does homemade canned peach pie filling last?
Homemade canned peach pie filling can last up to 1 year if stored in a cool, dark place.
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen peaches work well as long as they are thawed and drained before use.
What can I make with homemade canned peach pie filling?
You can use it in pies, cobblers, crisps, or even as a topping for pancakes and ice cream.
How do I know if my jars sealed properly?
Check the lid after cooling; it should not flex when pressed down. If it pops back, refrigerate and use immediately.
Is homemade canned peach pie filling safe?
Yes, as long as you follow proper canning procedures and use appropriate ingredients like bottled lemon juice.
Final Thoughts
This homemade canned peach pie filling offers a delightful way to enjoy summer flavors all year round. Its versatility allows you to create various desserts, from classic pies to modern twists like peach cobbler or pancakes. Feel free to customize with spices or additional fruits according to your preference!

Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings (for every quart jar filled) 1x
Description
Homemade Canned Peach Pie Filling is your ticket to savoring the sweet, sun-kissed flavors of summer all year long. This delightful preserve captures the essence of ripe peaches, blended with a hint of spice, making it an ideal filling for pies, crisps, and more. Its smooth texture and rich flavor transform desserts into comforting delights that evoke nostalgic memories. With easy canning techniques, you can enjoy fresh peach goodness long after the harvest season ends. Whether you’re prepping for holiday baking or looking for a quick treat, this versatile filling is sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 6 quarts fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, sliced)
- 7 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups cold water
- 1¾ cups cook-type Clear Jel
- 5¼ cups peach juice or water
- ½ cup bottled lemon juice
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Sterilize canning jars and keep them warm.
- Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds; transfer to an ice bath, peel, pit, and slice.
- Boil peach slices in batches for 1 minute; drain and keep warm.
- In a large pot, whisk together sugar and Clear Jel; stir in cold water and peach juice. Cook over medium-high heat until thickened.
- Mix in lemon juice and spices; boil for an additional minute.
- Gently fold in peach slices; return to a boil while stirring.
- Ladle hot filling into jars with about 1 inch of headspace; remove air bubbles and seal.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes.
- Let cool for 12–24 hours before checking seals and storing.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (125g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 54g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use ripe peaches for the best flavor. Always use bottled lemon juice to ensure safe acidity levels during canning. For a spicier version, try adding ginger or allspice.