If you have a bounty of ripe summer peaches and a craving for something sweet, fragrant, and utterly soothing, this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Imagine the warm sweetness of juicy peaches perfectly balanced by the soft, floral notes of vanilla, all simmered into a luscious jam that spreads like a dream. It’s a simple yet magical way to capture the essence of peaches at their peak, creating a spread that brightens up breakfasts, snacks, and desserts with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe keeps things simple but doesn’t skimp on flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and an inviting color that will make your jam irresistible.
- Fresh ripe peaches: The star of the jam, offering natural sweetness and a juicy, soft texture that sets the base.
- Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness and helping the jam to set properly, balancing the tartness of the peaches.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps to preserve the color and act as a natural preservative.
- Vanilla bean or extract: Introduces warm, aromatic notes that deepen the flavor profile beyond just fruity sweetness.
- Pectin (optional): A natural thickener that can help achieve the perfect jam consistency, especially if your peaches are low in natural pectin.
How to Make Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Peaches
Start by washing, peeling, and chopping your peaches into bite-sized pieces. If you like a chunkier jam, keep the pieces larger, or chop finely for a smoother texture. This hands-on step brings you closer to the natural beauty of this fruit.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot
Next, place the chopped peaches in a heavy-bottomed pot along with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. If you’re using a vanilla bean, split it and scrape the seeds right into the pot for maximum flavor—nothing compares to vanilla in its pure form.
Step 3: Cook the Jam
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to dissolve the sugar. As it cooks, the peaches will soften and release their juices, and the vanilla will infuse its subtle warmth. If using pectin, add it according to the package instructions at the right point in cooking to ensure perfect setting.
Step 4: Test for Setting Point
After about 20-30 minutes, test your jam’s readiness by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate. Tilt the plate—if the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s done. This traditional method helps make sure your jam isn’t too runny or too stiff.
Step 5: Jar and Cool
Once cooked, carefully ladle your hot vanilla peach jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace. Seal and allow them to cool at room temperature. As the jars cool, the jam will thicken further, locking in all those fragrant flavors.
How to Serve Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of cinnamon or a fresh mint leaf on top of a jam-topped scone or toast can add an extra touch of color and aroma to your Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe, making it even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This jam pairs wonderfully with warm buttery biscuits, creamy yogurt, or even paired with sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet-savory delight. It’s a versatile companion to many breakfast and snack options.
Creative Ways to Present
Try swirling a spoonful of this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe into your morning oatmeal or folding it into cream cheese for an irresistible bagel spread. You can even use it as a glaze on grilled chicken or pork for a surprising burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once opened, store your Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe in the refrigerator in an airtight jar. It typically stays fresh and delicious for up to three weeks, maintaining that vibrant fruity quality you love.
Freezing
If you want to keep your jam longer, it freezes wonderfully. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When thawed, the texture may be a little softer but the flavor will remain a perfect summer memory.
Reheating
Warm up your jam slightly in a microwave or on the stove to loosen the texture if it has thickened too much from chilling. Just a few seconds makes it spread easier and enhances the natural aromas of vanilla and peach.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for this jam?
Yes, frozen peaches work well if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them so excess liquid doesn’t dilute your jam’s flavor and consistency.
Do I have to use a vanilla bean?
Not at all! Vanilla extract is a great alternative and more accessible. Just add it during the cooking process to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
How long does homemade peach jam last?
Unopened jars stored in a cool, dark place can last up to a year. After opening, refrigerate and consume within three weeks for best quality.
Is pectin necessary for this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe?
Pectin is optional and depends on how set you like your jam. Peaches have some natural pectin, so if you prefer a looser jam, you can skip it altogether.
Can I make this jam sugar-free?
While sugar helps with preservation and setting, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but be aware the texture and shelf life might vary.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate peaches in their prime, with the gentle embrace of vanilla adding an extra layer of comfort. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dolloping it onto desserts, or gifting jars to loved ones, it’s sure to bring warmth and smiles to any table. Go ahead, dive in and enjoy a homemade taste of summer!
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Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: Approximately 4 half-pint jars
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Vanilla Peach Jam combines the sweet juiciness of ripe peaches with the warm, aromatic notes of vanilla to create a homemade preserve that’s perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or enhancing your favorite desserts. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this jam captures the essence of summer peaches in a jar.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) fruit pectin (such as Certo)
Instructions
- Prepare Peaches: Peel and chop the fresh ripe peaches into small pieces, removing any pits. This ensures an even consistency in your jam.
- Mix Fruit and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped peaches and granulated sugar. Stir well and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to macerate, drawing out the juices.
- Add Lemon Juice and Pectin: Transfer the peach mixture into a large saucepan. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and sprinkle the fruit pectin over the top. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Infuse Vanilla: Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean and add both the seeds and the pod to the saucepan. If using vanilla extract, add it after cooking.
- Cook the Jam: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Boil hard for 1 minute, ensuring the sugar and pectin dissolve completely. If you used a vanilla pod, remove it after cooking.
- Add Vanilla Extract (if used): If you prefer vanilla extract over the bean, stir it in now after removing the pot from heat.
- Test the Jam: To check if the jam has set, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it’s ready. If not, boil a little longer and test again.
- Jar the Jam: Pour the hot jam carefully into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Seal immediately with lids.
- Process for Preservation: Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safe preservation.
- Cool and Store: Remove jars from the water bath and let cool at room temperature. Store in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches for best consistency and flavor.
- If fresh peaches are not available, frozen peaches can be used but drain excess liquid before cooking.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage.
- If you prefer a chunkier jam, chop peaches more coarsely; for smooth jam, mash the fruit slightly before cooking.
- Adjust sugar based on peach sweetness and personal preference.
