When peaches come in season, there’s nothing like biting into one fresh and juicy. But have you ever tried brandied peaches? These sweet peaches soaked in brandy turn a simple fruit into a special dessert or a fancy garnish for cakes and ice cream. If you’ve never made them, you’re missing out on an old-fashioned way to enjoy peaches long after summer’s gone.
What Makes Brandied Peaches So Special?
Brandied peaches have been around for decades. Back then, people used to preserve fruits to enjoy them during the cold months. Brandy acts as a preservative and gives the fruit a warm, slightly boozy taste. The sugar in the syrup keeps the peaches sweet and balances the strong kick of brandy.
Many people think you need a fancy kitchen to make these but it’s actually very simple. Fresh, ripe peaches are key. Hard or underripe ones won’t soak up the brandy well. Soft, fragrant peaches are the best pick for this.
How Do You Make Brandied Peaches At Home?
If you want to try making these at home, here’s how. First, gather ripe peaches, brandy, sugar, and some spices if you like. Cinnamon sticks or cloves work well with peaches.
Start by peeling the peaches. To do this easily, drop them in hot water for about 30 seconds then move them to an ice bath. The skins will slip right off. Slice them and remove the pits.
In a pot, make a simple syrup with equal parts sugar and water. Let it boil until the sugar melts. Add your peach slices to this syrup and let them simmer for a few minutes. This keeps the peaches from getting too mushy later.
Next, pack the warm peaches in sterilized jars. Pour brandy over them until they’re covered then seal the jars tight. Store them in a cool dark place for at least a month. The longer they sit, the better the flavor.
Where Can You Use Brandied Peaches?
Once they’re ready, you can use brandied peaches in lots of ways. Spoon them over vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert. Add them on top of pancakes or waffles instead of syrup. Some people even mix them into cake batters or pies for a boozy twist.
They’re also popular during holidays. Bring out a jar of brandied peaches at Christmas and they’ll be the talk of the table. The brandy syrup alone can be drizzled over desserts or mixed into cocktails for a sweet punch.
Are Brandied Peaches Safe To Eat?
People sometimes ask if brandied peaches are safe. Yes, they are, as long as you sterilize your jars and use clean utensils. The alcohol and sugar help prevent bacteria from growing but always check that the seals are tight and the peaches smell good when you open them.
If you don’t want much alcohol, you can drain the peaches and let them sit for a bit. The brandy flavor will stay but the alcohol taste will be lighter.
Can You Buy Brandied Peaches?
If you don’t have time to make them, you can buy jars of brandied peaches online or in specialty stores. Some brands make them just like grandma would have done. They might be a bit pricey but the taste is worth it, especially for special occasions.
Many small local farms also sell homemade jars during peach season. It’s a nice way to support local growers and taste something homemade without the work.
Tips For Best Brandied Peaches
A few small tips make a big difference. Always use good quality brandy. Cheap brandy might taste harsh and spoil the sweetness. Also, use glass jars with tight lids. Plastic containers won’t work well for long-term storage.
Try different spices to change up the flavor. Nutmeg, star anise, or ginger can give your peaches a unique twist. Some people even add a bit of vanilla.
Finally, be patient. Brandied peaches taste better the longer they sit. One month is the minimum but some swear by three months or more.
A Little Treat From The Past
Brandied peaches feel like a treat from a simpler time. They remind us of summer harvests and family kitchens filled with sweet smells. Making them can turn into a fun tradition. Gather your peaches, pour your brandy, and seal up a little jar of sunshine to open when the days get cold.
If you haven’t tried them yet, this summer could be the perfect time to start. Grab some fresh peaches, some good brandy, and give this timeless recipe a try. You might end up making them every year.
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