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Nectarine Fruit Butter

A small jar of homemade nectarine fruit butter placed on a cloth with fresh nectarines in the background.

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Nectarine fruit butter is a smooth, naturally sweet spread made from ripe nectarines, perfect for toast, baking, or as a glaze. This easy recipe captures summer flavors in every spoonful.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1.5 hours (stovetop) or 6–8 hours (slow cooker)
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 2–3 pints
  • Category: Preserves
  • Method: Slow Cook or Simmer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds ripe nectarines (about 10)
  • ½1 cup sugar or honey (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the nectarines thoroughly. Pit and chop into even chunks. No need to peel if the skins are soft.
  2. Place nectarines, sugar (or honey), lemon juice, and optional spices in a large heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker.
  3. For stovetop: simmer uncovered on medium heat for 60–90 minutes, stirring often. For slow cooker: cook uncovered on low for 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once fruit is soft and cooked down, blend with an immersion blender or transfer to a food processor until smooth.
  5. Continue simmering uncovered until the butter thickens and holds its shape when run through with a spoon.
  6. Ladle hot nectarines into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims and seal. Process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes if storing long-term.
  7. Cool jars, check seals, and label before storing in fridge, freezer, or pantry (if canned).

Notes

  • Skip peeling if using organic or soft-skinned nectarines.
  • Adjust sugar based on fruit ripeness.
  • Use apple juice concentrate or honey for a refined sugar-free option.
  • Add bourbon or vanilla for a flavor twist.
  • Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 12 months.