Instant-Pot Peach Jam (Low Sugar)

There’s something truly magical about homemade jam—especially when it’s bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe peaches and made with just a touch of honey. This Instant-Pot Peach Jam (Low Sugar) is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy fresh, flavorful jam without the overwhelming sweetness of traditional recipes. Using simple, wholesome ingredients and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up a batch of this delightful jam in no time. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dolloping it over yogurt, or using it as a topping for desserts, this peach jam will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Instant-Pot Peach Jam (Low Sugar) stands out because it balances natural fruit sweetness with just a hint of honey or agave syrup, making it perfect for those who want to reduce added sugars without sacrificing flavor. The Instant Pot accelerates the cooking process, locking in the fresh peach flavor and creating a beautifully thick jam with minimal effort. Plus, the touch of warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds depth and a lovely autumnal vibe to every spoonful.

If you love peach treats, you might also enjoy trying the Honey Roasted Peach Crostini With Thyme recipe, which highlights peaches in a savory-sweet way perfect for entertaining or simple snacks.

This recipe is also flexible and easy to customize depending on your sweetness preference or texture needs, making it a fantastic kitchen staple to have on hand year-round.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup honey or agave syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for thickening)

How To Make Instant-Pot Peach Jam (Low Sugar)

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

Start by peeling and dicing your fresh peaches. The easiest way to peel peaches is to blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath. The skins will slip off easily. Dice the peeled peaches into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly and break down nicely in the jam.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot

Add the diced peaches, lemon juice, honey or agave syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg directly into the Instant Pot. Stir everything together gently to combine. The lemon juice is crucial as it balances the sweetness and helps preserve the jam.

Step 3: Cook the Jam

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Thicken the Jam

Open the lid and stir the jam. If you want a thicker consistency, stir in the chia seeds, which will absorb excess liquid and help set the jam as it cools. Let the jam sit for about 10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to swell and thicken the mixture further.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Transfer the jam into clean glass jars or containers. Allow it to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools, giving you that perfect spreadable texture.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your peaches are ripe and fragrant for the best flavor but not overly soft or mushy.
• If you prefer a chunkier jam, pulse the peaches lightly in a food processor before cooking.
• Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter, fresher taste.
• Adjust the amount of honey or agave syrup to suit your sweetness preference, keeping in mind that peaches add natural sugar.
• For an even thicker jam without chia seeds, you can cook the jam on the “Sauté” setting for a few minutes after pressure cooking, stirring frequently.
• Always use clean, sterilized jars if you plan to store your jam for longer periods or gift it.

Variations and Customizations

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.
• Berry blend: Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed fruit jam.
• Lower sugar option: Use less honey or agave and add more chia seeds to help thicken naturally.
• Herbal infusion: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking and remove before storing for a subtle herbal note.
• Vanilla swap: Replace vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract for a different flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your Instant-Pot Peach Jam (Low Sugar) in airtight containers or glass jars in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the jam in smaller portions—just thaw in the fridge overnight before use. Always use a clean spoon when scooping out jam to prevent contamination and extend shelf life.

FAQ

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peaches work well for this recipe. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking. The texture might be slightly softer, but the jam will still be delicious.

How do I make this jam sugar-free?

To make a sugar-free version, omit the honey or agave syrup and increase the chia seeds to 2 tablespoons for better thickening. Keep in mind that the jam will be less sweet and more tart, so adjust lemon juice accordingly.

Is it necessary to peel the peaches?

Peeling the peaches is recommended for a smoother jam texture, but you can leave the skins on if you don’t mind a more rustic, chunkier jam with bits of skin throughout.

Can this jam be canned for shelf storage?

This recipe is designed for refrigerator storage and is low in sugar, which makes it less suitable for traditional canning. If you want to can it, follow proper canning guidelines and consider adding a natural preservative like pectin or increasing acidity.

Conclusion

This Instant-Pot Peach Jam (Low Sugar) recipe is a fresh, wholesome way to capture the essence of summer peaches with minimal fuss and less added sugar. The combination of warming spices and natural sweetness creates a jam that’s versatile and satisfying. Whether you spread it on your morning toast or swirl it into oatmeal, this jam will brighten your day with every bite. Give it a try, and enjoy the taste of homemade goodness made simple!

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