Canning Peaches - A Simple Summer Preserve

There’s nothing like opening a jar of sun-ripened peaches in the middle of winter. With this easy raw pack canning method, you can preserve fresh peaches in a light syrup without any complicated equipment — and enjoy them for months to come.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned home canner, this method is quick, efficient, and yields delicious results. All you need are a few ripe peaches, sugar, water, and two trusty 500 ml Luna Preserving Jars.

What Is the Raw Pack Method?

Unlike the hot pack method (where fruit is cooked before going into the jar), raw pack involves placing fresh fruit directly into sterilised jars and covering it with hot syrup. This method retains the fruit’s natural shape and firmness — perfect for peaches!

Ingredients & Yield

Makes: 2 x 500 ml jars
Storage: Up to 1 year in a cool, dark place (unopened)

• 4–5 medium ripe peaches (700–800g) — freestone varieties work best

• 1 ½ cups (375 ml) water

• ½ cup (100 g) sugar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, helps prevent browning)

Equipment You'll Need

• 2 x 500 ml sterilised glass jars – we recommend Luna Preserving Jars for safe, sustainable storage

• 2 two-piece lids (lid + band)

• Saucepan

• Canning funnel (optional but useful)

• Water bath canner or a large pot with rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sterilise the Jars

Wash your jars, lids, and bands in hot soapy water. Sterilise the jars by boiling them for 10 minutes or running them through the dishwasher on high heat.

2. Prepare the Syrup

In a saucepan, heat the water and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice if using.

3. Prepare the Peaches

• Bring a separate pot of water to a boil.

• Score a small "X" on the bottom of each peach.

• Blanch for 30–60 seconds, then transfer to ice water.

• Peel, pit, and slice into quarters or thick wedges.

4. Raw Pack the Jars

• Fill each jar tightly with peach slices (but don’t crush them).

• Pour the hot syrup over the peaches, leaving 1.5 cm headspace.

• Remove air bubbles with a non-metallic utensil.

• Wipe the rims, apply lids, and screw bands fingertip-tight.

5. Water Bath Canning

• Place jars in the canner, ensuring water covers the tops by 2–3 cm.

• Bring to a boil and process for 30 minutes (adjust for altitude if needed).

• Turn off the heat, let jars rest in the water for 5 minutes, then remove.

6. Cool & Store

Let jars cool for 12–24 hours. Check seals — lids should not flex when pressed.
Label and store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

How to Enjoy Your Canned Peaches

• Over yoghurt or porridge

• On top of pancakes or waffles

• Baked into pies and crumbles

• Or simply… straight from the jar

Why Use Luna Preserving Jars?

Made from thick, durable Wild Glass, our 500 ml Luna Preserving Jars are perfect for home canning. Unlike thin jars that chip easily, Luna jars are made in Europe with 100% recycled glass and come with airtight stainless steel lids — plastic-free and rust-free.

They're reusable, sustainable, and built to last — the perfect choice for preserving your favourite fruits naturally.

Ready to Get Started?

Make your own pantry preserves and reduce food waste while you're at it.
👉 Shop the Luna Preserving Jars – 500 ml now and start canning with confidence!