Homemade Peach Jam with Vanilla Bean Easy Small Batch Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Peach Jam with Vanilla Bean is a delicious way to enjoy the sweet flavors of summer all year round. Making your own jam means you can control the ingredients, ensuring it’s free from preservatives and artificial flavors. This easy small-batch recipe lets you quickly whip up a jar of fresh peach jam that combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with the aromatic depth of vanilla bean, making it perfect for spreading on toast, topping pancakes, or adding to desserts.

How to Make Homemade Peach Jam with Vanilla Bean

Ingredients

• 3 cups peeled and chopped ripe peaches (about 4-5 medium peaches)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
• 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped out

Directions

1. Prepare the peaches: Wash and peel the peaches by blanching them in boiling water for 30-40 seconds, then plunge them into ice water to loosen the skins. Use a paring knife to peel off the skins, pit, and chop the peaches into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. (Prep time: 15 minutes)

2. Scrape the vanilla bean: Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with the back of a knife. Set both the seeds and the pod aside.

3. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla seeds, and the scraped vanilla bean pod. Stir gently to mix everything together.

4. Cook the jam: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer, stirring every few minutes to prevent scorching. After 20-25 minutes, the mixture will thicken and the peaches will become soft, forming a jam-like consistency. (Cooking time: 25-30 minutes)

5. Test the jam set: Place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate and tilt it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s done. If not, let it simmer a few minutes longer before testing again. Remove the vanilla bean pod before bottling.

6. Jar the jam: Ladle the hot jam into clean half-pint jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Seal the jars with lids and let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

How to Serve Homemade Peach Jam with Vanilla Bean

This peach jam is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Spread it on toasted bread or biscuits for breakfast, swirl it into yogurt for a tasty snack, or use it as a filling for pastries. It also makes a lovely topping for ice cream or pancakes, providing a burst of fruity flavor.

How to Store Homemade Peach Jam with Vanilla Bean

Store your homemade peach jam in the refrigerator. Properly sealed jars can last for about 3 to 4 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider canning it for shelf storage, following safe canning practices.

Tips to Make Homemade Peach Jam with Vanilla Bean

• Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. They should be fragrant and slightly soft to the touch.
• For a smoother jam, you can mash the peaches before cooking or use an immersion blender after cooking to achieve your desired consistency.
• Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the peaches and your personal taste preference.

Variation

If you want to add a different twist, you can mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg while cooking. This will introduce warm flavors that complement the peaches beautifully. You can also add a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

2. How can I tell if my jar has sealed properly?
When your jar cools, the lid should pop down, indicating a proper seal. You can press the center of the lid; if it doesn’t spring back, the jar is sealed.

3. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but it’s best to make it in smaller batches for easier cooking and to ensure the jam sets properly.