Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe

If you have a soft spot for fresh fruit spreads that burst with natural sweetness and a hint of warmth, then this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe will quickly become your go-to treasure in the kitchen. Combining juicy ripe peaches with the delicate aroma of pure vanilla, this jam strikes the perfect balance between bright, fruity tanginess and smooth, cozy sweetness. Easy enough to make on a weekend afternoon, it transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, spreadable delight that feels like summer jarred in a jar. Trust me, once you try this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe, you’ll find yourself dreaming up new ways to enjoy it every day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of simple, fresh, and pantry-friendly ingredients allows this jam to shine without any fuss. Each ingredient is a star in its own right, contributing to the texture, flavor, and vibrant color that make this jam so irresistible.

• Ripe peaches (4 cups, peeled, pitted, and finely chopped): The heart and soul of the jam, their juicy sweetness and tender flesh create the perfect base.
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds bright acidity that balances the peaches’ sweetness and helps the jam set.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the jam with a cozy warmth and depth, elevating the fruit’s natural flavor.
• Granulated sugar (4 cups): Sweetens and preserves the jam while contributing to the texture and shine.
• Liquid fruit pectin (1 pouch, 3 oz.): The magic ingredient that ensures your jam thickens to that perfect spreadable consistency.

How to Make Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

Begin by peeling and pitting ripe peaches, then finely chopping them until you have exactly 4 cups. This step is essential to release the peaches’ natural juices and create small chunks that will give your jam a delightful texture.

Step 2: Combine Peaches and Lemon Juice

Place the chopped peaches in a large stainless steel saucepan and add the fresh lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon juice helps brighten the flavor and works as a natural preservative.

Step 3: Stir in Sugar Gradually

Slowly add the granulated sugar to the peach and lemon mixture, stirring as you go to ensure that the sugar is evenly distributed and begins to dissolve, blending perfectly with the fruit juices.

Step 4: Heat the Mixture

Set your saucepan over medium-high heat and stir continuously as the sugar dissolves and the mixture heats up. Bring it to a full boil, which is critical to developing the right jam consistency.

Step 5: Add Vanilla Extract

Once boiling, add the pure vanilla extract, stirring gently. The vanilla lends a subtle, fragrant undertone that makes this jam irresistibly special. Allow the mixture to return to a rolling boil for the next step.

Step 6: Stir in Liquid Fruit Pectin

Quickly pour in the liquid fruit pectin and boil the jam hard for exactly 1 minute while stirring constantly. This ensures the jam will set properly once cooled, offering you that ideal spreadable texture.

Step 7: Remove Foam

Take the saucepan off the heat and skim any foam from the surface of the jam. This keeps the texture smooth and the appearance clean when you jar it.

Step 8: Jar the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4 inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims to ensure they are clean, then seal tightly with lids to prepare for preserving.

Step 9: Process in a Water Bath

For longer shelf life, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes. This step is especially useful if you want to gift your jam or store it without refrigeration.

Step 10: Cool and Seal

Remove the jars from the water and allow them to cool on a towel or cooling rack. Once cool, check the seals; a properly sealed jar will have a concave lid and no give when pressed.

How to Serve Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe

Garnishes

Enhancing your Vanilla Peach Jam doesn’t have to be complicated. A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves, a small dusting of cinnamon, or even a few thin slices of fresh peach on top can make your jam presentation feel effortless yet elegant.

Side Dishes

This jam pairs beautifully with a range of foods. Try it alongside warm buttery biscuits, atop creamy yogurt for breakfast, or slathered on toast for a quick snack that instantly brightens your day.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, use your Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe as a filling for thumbprint cookies, swirl it into cheesecake batter before baking, or even layer it in parfaits with granola and whipped cream for an irresistible dessert. The possibilities are endless and always delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover jam after indulging, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and flavorful for up to three weeks, ready to brighten up your meals whenever you want.

Freezing

Vanilla Peach Jam freezes exceptionally well. Pour the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Frozen jam can last for up to 6 months, preserving that fresh flavor and making it easy to enjoy any time of year.

Reheating

When you’re ready to use frozen jam, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If the texture seems a bit watery, gently reheat on the stovetop while stirring until it thickens back up. This gentle reheating preserves all the delicious flavors you love.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches for this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe?

Absolutely! When fresh peaches aren’t in season, frozen peaches make a fine substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before measuring and starting your jam to avoid excess water.

Do I need to sterilize the jars before jarring the jam?

Yes, sterilizing jars is highly recommended to prevent bacteria growth and keep your jam safe for long-term storage. You can boil jars and lids or use a dishwasher with a sanitize cycle.

How long does homemade Vanilla Peach Jam last once opened?

Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and use it within 3 weeks for the best flavor and safety. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

While you can reduce sugar, remember that sugar acts as both a sweetener and preservative. Reducing it significantly might alter the texture and shelf life. Consider trying a smaller batch first to find the perfect balance for your taste.

What if my jam doesn’t set properly?

If your jam remains runny, it might need more pectin or longer boiling. You can try re-boiling it with an additional pouch of liquid pectin following the package instructions, then re-jar and process again.

Final Thoughts

Making this Vanilla Peach Jam Recipe is like capturing a little jar of sunshine and warmth to enjoy anytime you crave something sweet, fresh, and comforting. It’s such a rewarding, joyful process that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful treat. Whether you spread it on toast, gift it to friends, or incorporate it into your favorite desserts, this jam is sure to become a beloved staple. So roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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