Easy Small Batch Peach Bourbon Jam Recipe No Pectin Perfect for Beginners
A simple, no-pectin peach bourbon jam recipe that captures the natural sweetness of peaches with a subtle bourbon warmth. Perfect for beginners and small batches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup (8 servings, 1 tablespoon each) 1x
- Category: Preserve
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups fresh peaches (about 5–6 medium peaches), peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (30 ml)
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (30 ml)
- 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
Instructions
- Prepare the peaches by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath to slip off the skins easily. Pit and chop into 1/2-inch pieces to yield about 3 cups.
- In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, bourbon, and water. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally and gently mashing some peaches, for 30-40 minutes until thickened.
- Test the jam consistency by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape when tilted, it is ready. If not, continue simmering and testing every 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Pour into sterilized jars or containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
Do not rush the simmering step to allow natural thickening without pectin. Skim off any foam for clearer jam. For chunkier texture, mash some peaches gently; for smoother jam, briefly use an immersion blender at the end. Frozen peaches can be used but may yield softer texture. Alcohol-free version can be made by substituting bourbon with vanilla extract or water with cinnamon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12
- Carbohydrates: 13
- Fiber: 1
Keywords: peach jam, bourbon jam, no pectin jam, small batch jam, homemade jam, summer jam, beginner jam recipe