π Candied Peaches in Syrup
These candied peaches are soft, glossy, and infused with a sweet syrup. They can be served over ice cream, pancakes, yogurt, cakes, or enjoyed on their own.
π Ingredients
For the Peaches
6β8 ripe but firm peaches
4 cups water (for blanching)
Ice water (for cooling)
For the Syrup
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
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π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Peaches
Peel Easily Using Blanching
1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Cut a small “X” on the bottom of each peach.
3. Carefully place peaches in boiling water for 30β60 seconds.
4. Transfer immediately to ice water.
5. Peel off the skins with your fingers or a small knife.
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2. Slice the Peaches
1. Cut peaches in half.
2. Remove pits.
3. Slice into wedges or leave as halves, depending on your preference.
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3. Make the Syrup
In a large saucepan combine:
Sugar
Water
Lemon juice
If using:
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon stick
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
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4. Cook the Peaches
1. Carefully add the peach slices to the syrup.
2. Reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for 10β15 minutes.
The peaches should become:
Slightly translucent
Tender but not mushy
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5. Thicken the Syrup
Remove the peaches with a slotted spoon.
Continue simmering the syrup for another 5β10 minutes until it becomes slightly thicker and glossy.
Remember that the syrup will thicken more as it cools.
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6. Combine and Cool
1. Return the peaches to the syrup.
2. Remove from heat.
3. Allow everything to cool completely.
The peaches will continue absorbing flavor as they cool.
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π― Extra-Candied Version
For a more candy-like result:
1. Leave peaches in the syrup overnight in the refrigerator.
2. The next day, remove peaches.
3. Boil the syrup until slightly thicker.
4. Return peaches and cool again.
Repeat once more if desired for a richer candied texture.
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π« Storage
Refrigerator
Store in sterilized glass jars.
Keep peaches completely covered with syrup.
Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
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π½οΈ Serving Ideas
Serve candied peaches:
Over vanilla ice cream
On pancakes or waffles
With cheesecake
Mixed into yogurt
On sponge cake
With whipped cream
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π‘ Tips for Success
β Use ripe but firm peaches so they hold their shape.
β Add lemon juice to help balance sweetness and preserve color.
β Avoid overcooking, which can make peaches mushy.
β Let the peaches cool in the syrup for maximum flavor absorption.
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β¨ Optional Flavor Variations
Spiced Peaches
Add:
Cinnamon stick
Cloves
Nutmeg
Vanilla Peaches
Add:
Vanilla bean or vanilla extract
Honey Peaches
Replace ΒΌβΒ½ cup of the sugar with honey.
Ginger Peaches
Add a few slices of fresh ginger while simmering.
The finished peaches will be sweet, fragrant, and coated in a beautiful golden syrup that’s perfect for desserts and breakfast dishes.