Are you ready to transform fresh peaches into a sweet delight? In this article, we’ll make Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam that bursts with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a jar of sunshine that tastes like summer. This jam is not only easy to craft, but it also brings a fresh twist to your breakfast table. Let’s dive into the recipes and tips that will make your jam-making a success!
Ingredients
Creating Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam is simple and fun! You only need a few fresh ingredients to make this sweet delight. Here’s the list:
– 4 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup water
Each ingredient plays a key role in making this jam burst with flavor. The ripe peaches bring natural sweetness and a lovely texture. The sugar helps preserve the jam and adds sweetness, while the lemon juice brightens the taste. Pure vanilla extract enhances the peach flavor, giving it a warm and rich aroma. The almond extract adds a delightful hint of nuttiness. Lastly, the water helps the peaches cook down into a lovely jam.
For the full recipe, you’ll find detailed steps that guide you through creating this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Peaches
Start by placing the diced peaches and water in a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium for about five minutes. Stir occasionally. You want the peaches to soften and release their juices. This step is key for a juicy jam.
Combining Flavors
Once the peaches soften, add the granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, pure vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir well to combine all the flavors. This mix will create a rich and sweet base for your jam. The vanilla and almond bring a lovely warmth to the peaches.
Cooking to Desired Thickness
Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it boil for about ten to fifteen minutes. While it boils, mash the peaches lightly with a potato masher or an immersion blender. This gives your jam texture and keeps some delightful chunks. Keep boiling until it thickens to your liking. The jam is ready when it drips off a spoon in a thick, syrupy way.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. Enjoy the process and the sweet smell filling your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Mastering the Texture
To keep your jam chunky, don’t mash too much. After cooking the peaches, use a potato masher. Lightly press the peaches to break them down, but leave some pieces intact. This gives your jam that nice texture.
Stop cooking when the mixture drips off a spoon in a thick, syrupy way. It should not be runny. If it is, keep boiling for a little longer.
Sterilizing Jars
To store your jam safely, you must sterilize your jars. The best way is to boil them in water for 10 minutes. This kills any germs.
Seal the jars tightly after filling them with jam. This helps keep the jam fresh and safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions
For the best flavor, pair your jam with fresh bread or warm scones. The warm bread brings out the taste of the vanilla and peaches.
You can serve jam in small, cute glass jars. Add a label to make it special. It looks charming on a breakfast table.
Variations
Flavor Tweaks
You can play with the flavor of your vanilla peach jam. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can give it a warm depth. Just a pinch of each will do! You can also mix in different fruits. Try berries or apricots for a fun twist. Each fruit brings its own taste, making your jam unique.
Sugar Alternatives
If you want a healthier option, consider using honey or agave syrup instead of sugar. Both options add sweetness without the refined sugar. You might also try low-sugar pectin. This can help balance sweetness while keeping the fruit flavor strong. It’s a great way to enjoy your jam with less sugar.
Preserving Methods
When it comes to preserving your jam, you have choices. You can make freezer jam, which is easy and quick. Just store it in jars and freeze. This method keeps the fresh fruit taste bright. Alternatively, you can can your jam. This method is great for long-term storage. You’ll need a water bath canner and sterilized jars for this method. Each method has its perks, so choose what fits your fridge and pantry!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
This jam stays fresh in the fridge for about three weeks. Store it in clean, airtight jars. Make sure to leave some space at the top of each jar. This space helps when the jam expands as it cools.
Freezing the Jam
To freeze, fill jars with jam, leaving some space at the top. Seal them tightly and place them in the freezer. Label each jar with the date. When you crave jam, take a jar out and place it in the fridge overnight. This keeps it fresh and tasty.
Water Bath Canning
For long-term storage, use the water bath canning method. You’ll need jars, a canner, and a jar lifter. First, sterilize your jars by boiling them. Fill the jars with warm jam, leaving some space at the top. Seal each jar with a lid. Then, place the jars in boiling water for about ten minutes. This process seals the jars, making them safe for up to a year. Always check your jars for any signs of damage before using them.
FAQs
How long does Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam last?
Small batch vanilla peach jam lasts about three weeks in the fridge. Keep it in a sealed jar. If you freeze it, it can last up to a year. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe jar.
Can I adjust the sweetness in the jam?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness. If you prefer less sugar, reduce it by 1/4 cup. The jam will be less sweet but still tasty. If you want it sweeter, add more sugar, but do so slowly.
What can I use in place of vanilla extract?
You can use almond extract or maple syrup instead of vanilla extract. Almond extract gives a nutty flavor. Maple syrup adds a nice sweetness but changes the taste a bit.
Where can I buy artisanal or homemade versions?
You can find artisanal peach jam at local farmers’ markets and specialty stores. Online, check sites like Etsy or local jam makers. Many offer unique flavors that you won’t find in stores.
What are the health benefits of homemade jam?
Homemade jam uses fresh fruit, which means more nutrients. You control the sugar, making it healthier than store-bought options. Plus, it’s free from preservatives and artificial flavors. Enjoying homemade jam is a tasty way to add fruit to your diet!
In this post, we explored making small batch vanilla peach jam. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for perfect texture. We also covered variations to fit your taste and how to store your jam safely. Remember to experiment with flavors and enjoy the sweet bounty from your efforts. Making jam can be simple and rewarding. Enjoy your homemade peach jam on toast, pancakes, or just by the spoonful!
