Easy Small-Batch Peach Bourbon Jam Recipe No Pectin Perfect for Beginners
A simple, flavorful small-batch peach bourbon jam made without pectin, perfect for beginners and those wanting a natural, chunky texture with a grown-up twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
- Yield: About 2 half-pint jars (approximately 1 cup per jar) 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) bourbon (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the peaches by blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to loosen the skin. Peel and chop into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- In a large saucepan, combine the chopped peaches and granulated sugar. Stir gently to coat all the fruit and let sit for about 15 minutes to draw out juices.
- Add fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt to the mixture.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium-low and let gently bubble for 30–40 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning, until the jam thickens and peaches soften.
- Stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract, cooking for another 5 minutes to meld flavors and mellow the alcohol.
- Test the set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape, the jam is ready. If not, continue cooking and test every 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before spooning into clean jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace. Seal and refrigerate once cooled. The jam will thicken further as it cools.
Notes
Use ripe but firm peaches for best texture. Stir regularly to prevent burning. Add bourbon late in cooking to preserve flavor. Test jam set with cold plate method. Jam thickens further when cooled. Store refrigerated up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 3 months. For smoother texture, use immersion blender after cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 2 tabl
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 16
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
Keywords: peach jam, bourbon jam, no pectin jam, small batch jam, easy jam recipe, homemade jam, peach preserves, beginner jam recipe