Why Peach Pie Filling Is a Great Healthy Dessert
When I think about healthy desserts, peach pie filling immediately comes to mind. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of ripe peaches, packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
The combination of flavors with a hint of almond extract elevates it to a new level. Plus, making it yourself allows me to control the sugar content, keeping it healthier than store-bought options.
I love that I can use it in various ways—whether in a pie, as a topping on yogurt, or even on whole grain toast. It’s a versatile treat that satisfies my sweet tooth without the guilt.
Ingredients of Peach Pie Filling
When it comes to creating something delicious in the kitchen, few things are as satisfying as whipping up a homemade peach almond pie filling. Not only is it bursting with the sweet, juicy goodness of ripe peaches, but it also brings a delightful twist with the hint of almond extract. Just imagining all those vibrant colors and flavors coming together makes my mouth water.
Plus, the great thing about making it yourself is that you can adjust the sweetness to your liking, which is a win-win for your taste buds and your health. So, let’s plunge into the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful filling.
Ingredients:
- 8 lbs fully ripe peaches or nectarines
- 7 cups sugar
- 2 cups Clear Jel
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 3/4 cups lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Now, let’s talk about some considerations regarding these ingredients. First off, the quality of your peaches or nectarines is essential; you want them to be perfectly ripe and flavorful. After all, the fruit is the star of the show.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even mix in a few different varieties for a unique twist. Also, Clear Jel is a special thickener that helps give your filling that perfect, pie-worthy consistency without the need for cornstarch.
And if you’re watching your sugar intake, you can experiment with substituting some of the sugar with a natural sweetener or simply reduce the amount. Remember, the goal is to make a filling that you absolutely love, so don’t hesitate to adjust according to your preferences.
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, we can move on to the fun part—making the peach pie filling.
How to Make Peach Pie Filling
Making your own Peach Almond Pie Filling isn’t only a rewarding experience, but it’s also a fantastic way to embrace the flavors of summer. So, let’s get started on this delicious journey. First things first, you’ll need a whopping 8 lbs of fully ripe peaches or nectarines. Make sure they’re firm and bursting with flavor. You can peel them (which can feel a bit tedious, but think of it as a mini workout for your arms) and slice them into 1/2 inch pieces.
To keep your beautiful peach slices from turning brown, toss them in an ascorbic acid solution. You can find this magical little powder near the canning supplies at your local store. After giving them a soak, drain them well and set aside about 24 cups of fruit.
Now, in a large pot, heat about 6 cups of water until it reaches a rolling boil. Then, gently add in your peach slices—about 6 cups at a time. Don’t worry; it’s like a peach spa day, just for a minute. Boil those slices for a minute before using a slotted spoon to transfer them into a large bowl.
Repeat until all your peaches are happily boiled, then drain the water from the pot. Now, we’re going to create the luscious filling. In the same pot, mix together 7 cups of sugar, 2 cups of Clear Jel, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Stir in 4 1/2 cups of water and cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
This is where the magic happens as the mixture thickens and bubbles away. Once it’s thick and boiling, in goes 1 3/4 cups of lemon juice—this adds a nice zing—and we’ll let it boil for another minute. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of almond extract for that heavenly aroma.
With your filling ready, it’s time to bring it all together. Gently fold in the peach slices, making sure they’re evenly coated in that dreamy mixture. After heating everything together for three more minutes, grab your clean, sterile quart-size canning jars. Spoon the hot fruit mixture into the jars, leaving about an inch of headspace.
Don’t forget to remove any pesky air bubbles before wiping the rims and adjusting the lids. Now, process those filled jars in a boiling water canner for 30 minutes. Once that time is up, carefully remove your jars from the canner and let them cool on wire racks.
Voilà! You’ve just made enough peach pie filling for 6 glorious pies. Just think about all the deliciousness waiting for you. Remember, when you’re ready to bake, just spoon one quart into a pastry-lined pie pan, dot it with a tablespoon of butter, and let the magic of baking do its thing. Enjoy every bite of your homemade creation!
Peach Pie Filling Substitutions & Variations
There are countless ways to customize your peach pie filling, making it truly your own.
For a twist, try using half peaches and half blueberries or raspberries for a delightful berry fusion. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of ginger or cardamom.
Swapping almond extract for vanilla or even bourbon can create a unique flavor profile. For a healthier option, reduce the sugar and replace it with honey or maple syrup.
You could also experiment with different thickeners like cornstarch or tapioca. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and have fun with your filling!
What to Serve with Peach Pie Filling
Customizing your peach pie filling is just the beginning of the delicious journey.
When I serve my peach pie, I love pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess balances the sweetness perfectly! Sometimes, I drizzle a little caramel sauce on top for an extra treat.
If I’m feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon makes it even more special.
For drinks, I often go for sweet tea or a light sparkling wine to complement the flavors. These simple additions elevate the experience and make my peach pie truly unforgettable!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your peach almond pie filling, keep in mind a few helpful tips to enhance the flavor and texture. First, make certain your peaches are fully ripe for the best sweetness.
I like to use a mix of peaches and nectarines for added depth. Don’t skip the almond extract; it truly elevates the filling!
If you prefer a thicker consistency, adjust the Clear Jel to your liking. Remember to process your jars properly to prevent spoilage.
For serving, I recommend letting the pie cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape. Enjoy your delicious creation!