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Rich Bourbon Vanilla Peach Preserves

bourbon vanilla peach preserves - featured image

A gourmet homemade jam featuring ripe peaches enhanced with bourbon and vanilla for a rich, layered flavor perfect for breakfast toast, desserts, or cheese boards.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • 1.75 ounces powdered pectin
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peaches by blanching in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to peel easily. Slice into 1/2-inch pieces (about 15 minutes).
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine sliced peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat and let sit for at least 20 minutes to macerate.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk powdered pectin with water until smooth.
  4. Stir bourbon and scraped vanilla bean seeds plus pod into the peach mixture.
  5. Bring mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Stir in pectin mixture and boil vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes until thickened (about 10 minutes total).
  6. Test the set by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and doesn’t run after a minute, it’s ready. If not, boil another minute and test again.
  7. Remove and discard the vanilla bean pod.
  8. Ladle hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal with lids.
  9. Let jars cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate and use within a month or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.

Notes

Blanch peaches to peel easily and avoid grainy texture from skins. Stir constantly during boiling to prevent scorching. Test jam set on a chilled plate for best results. Use real vanilla bean for richer flavor and speckled appearance. Adjust bourbon amount carefully to avoid overpowering. Refrigerate after opening and consume within 4 weeks. Can be frozen up to 3 months but texture may soften.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon peach preserves, vanilla peach jam, homemade peach preserves, gourmet jam, easy peach jam, bourbon vanilla jam, summer preserves