How to Can Peaches at Home (Step-by-Step Water Bath Method)
Peach season hits hard — and fast.
Before you blink, that perfectly ripe fruit turns soft and sad.
That’s where canning comes in.
Preserve those sweet, juicy peaches for the entire year with this foolproof water bath method. It’s easier than you think — and totally safe if done right.
🛒 What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
Fresh ripe peaches (freestone are easiest)
Sugar (for syrup — optional)
Water or juice (for syrup base)
Lemon juice (for preserving color)
Equipment:
Large pot (for blanching)
Canning pot or stockpot with rack
Mason jars + lids
Tongs or jar lifter
Funnel
Clean towels
Ladle
🧂 Choose Your Syrup
You can can peaches in light syrup, heavy syrup, juice, or plain water.
Here’s a quick chart:
Syrup TypeSugar to Water RatioSweetness LevelVery Light¾ cup sugar to 6 cups waterSubtleLight1½ cups sugar to 5¾ cups waterBalancedMedium2¼ cups sugar to 5¼ cups waterSweeterHeavy3¼ cups sugar to 5 cups waterDessert-style
💡 Want a sugar-free option? Use white grape juice or just water with lemon.
🍑 Step-by-Step: How to Can Peaches
Step 1: Wash, Blanch & Peel
Wash peaches
Blanch in boiling water for 30–60 seconds
Dunk in ice bath
Peel off skins
Step 2: Slice and Pit
Cut in halves or slices. Remove pits. Drop slices into a lemon water bowl to prevent browning.
Step 3: Prepare Syrup
In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat until dissolved (no need to boil). Keep warm.
Step 4: Sterilize Jars
Boil jars for 10 minutes, or run through dishwasher on high heat. Keep hot until ready.
Step 5: Fill Jars
Add peach slices, gently packing without crushing
Ladle hot syrup over peaches, leaving ½ inch headspace
Remove air bubbles
Wipe jar rims clean
Add lids and tighten until fingertip tight
Step 6: Water Bath Process
Submerge jars in a large pot of boiling water
Process:
Pints: 20 minutes
Quarts: 25 minutes
Adjust time if at higher altitude
Step 7: Cool & Store
Remove jars and let rest undisturbed for 12–24 hours
Check lids: if center is firm and popped down, you’re sealed
Label with date and store in cool, dark place
💡 Canning Pro Tips
Always start with ripe but firm peaches — mushy fruit won’t can well
Don't overfill jars or you risk leaking during processing
If a jar doesn't seal, refrigerate and eat within a week
🍑 What Can You Do with Canned Peaches?
Peach cobbler and crisp
Smoothies
Yogurt bowls
Grilled with pork or chicken
Straight out of the jar with whipped cream
👨🍳 Final Thoughts
Canning peaches might sound old-school, but it’s pure kitchen gold.
With one afternoon of work, you’ve locked in summer flavor for months.
Your winter self will thank you.
🔍 FAQ
Can I can peaches without sugar?
Yes! Use water or 100% juice. The sugar is just for flavor and texture.
How long do canned peaches last?
Up to 12–18 months when stored properly.
Do I need a pressure canner?
Not for peaches — they’re acidic enough for water bath canning.
