Food
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Is Peach Butter?

Misty Amber Brighton
Misty Amber Brighton

People who enjoy eating jam and preserves may want to try peach butter. This is a type of spread often eaten on toast or biscuits. It consists of fresh peaches, water, and sugar. Some recipes may also call for spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg. Citrus juices are sometimes added to give the finished product a tangy flavor.

This peach product is often made by people who enjoy home canning. It is made by peeling a large quantity of fresh peaches and removing the pits. After this, the fruit can be cooked over low heat until it is very soft, then pureed. The mixture is then cooked again until it becomes thick, which can take two to three hours in most cases.

Peaches.
Peaches.

Sugar is sometimes added to the homemade peach butter while it is cooking. This keeps the butter from having a tart flavor when it is done. Some cooks add a little water to the mixture whenever it becomes too thick, while others thin the preserves down with orange or lemon juice. Spices, such as nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon, can be added to suit individual taste.

Nutmeg is often used to season peach butter.
Nutmeg is often used to season peach butter.

When finished, this peach product is usually red or orange in color. The exact shade can depend on what other ingredients have been added as well as the variety of peaches used. Peach butter is normally slightly thicker than regular butter but thinner than jam.

Some types of peach butter are very sweet, and others are not. This largely depends on how much sugar was used to prepare the butter. Most varieties are not tart, even when lemon or orange juice has been used in the mixture. Sugar-free varieties may contain an artificial sweetener, so people with diabetes may want to try one of these kinds.

Peach butter can be used as a spread for croissants.
Peach butter can be used as a spread for croissants.

Many people eat peach butter on toast or biscuits as a part of their breakfast. Others may spread this peach product on waffles or pancakes. It could also be enjoyed on bagels, muffins, or croissants. The spread could also be used along with peanut butter to make a sandwich.

Although peaches are thought of as a summertime treat, peach butter can be enjoyed any time of year. This is because this product keeps well if stored in a refrigerator after being opened. People who are looking for a unique and flavorful product may want to try this spread for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Peaches.
      By: Anna Kucherova
      Peaches.
    • Nutmeg is often used to season peach butter.
      By: Thomas Francois
      Nutmeg is often used to season peach butter.
    • Peach butter can be used as a spread for croissants.
      By: nito
      Peach butter can be used as a spread for croissants.
    • Peach butter is similar to jam or preserves.
      By: Szasz-Fabian Erika
      Peach butter is similar to jam or preserves.
    • Peach butter can be spread on a bagel and served for breakfast.
      By: diego cervo
      Peach butter can be spread on a bagel and served for breakfast.