Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe

Hey there, jam fans! If you’re looking to bottle up summer’s sweetness, this Bourbon Peach Jam is your go-to. Ripe peaches, a splash of bourbon, and a hint of classic pectin create a spread that’s perfect on toast, biscuits, or even swirled into yogurt. I first made this after a trip to our local farm, where I grabbed a crate of juicy peaches. The bourbon was a fun whim, and wow, it turned out amazing! This recipe’s a breeze, whether you’re new to canning or a pro.

What makes this homemade peach jam special? It’s all about fresh, seasonal flavors with a grown-up twist. With just a handful of ingredients and about an hour, you’ll have a jar of goodness that screams summer. It’s great for gifting or keeping all to yourself. Ready to dive in? Let’s get jamming!

Bourbon Peach Jam

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Making jam from seasonal peaches is a fun way to enjoy summer flavors. This Bourbon Peach Jam blends ripe peaches with a hint of bourbon for a rich, spreadable treat perfect on toast or biscuits.

• Author: Melissa Lynn
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Additional Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: About 3-4 half-pint jars 1x
• Category: Condiments
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds or eight peaches
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups of sugar, depending on peach sweetness
• 3 tbsp Ball classic fruit pectin
• 2 tbsp Bourbon (optional)
• 2 tbsp bottled lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Peel and cut peaches into medium chunks and place in a medium pot. You should have 2 – 2 2/3 cups.
2. Place your largest Dutch oven or canning pot on the stove with a rack at the bottom. Fill jars with water, place in the pot in a single layer, and cover with water. Heat to simmering. Simmer lids separately.
3. Mash peaches and add 3 tbsp pectin, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 2 tbsp bourbon.
4. Heat on medium-high to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil for about 1 minute, careful not to burn.
5. Add 1 1/2 to 2 cups sugar, return to a boil, and boil for 1 minute, skimming foam. Add more pectin if needed.
6. Remove jars from water with tongs or a jar lifter. Invert on a towel to drain.
7. Spoon jam into jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
8. Place jars back in the pot, covered by 1-2 inches of water. Bring to a full boil and process for 10 minutes.
9. Turn off heat, remove lid, and let jars sit for 5 minutes. Remove and cool on a towel for 12-24 hours.
10. Check seals by pressing lid centers. Refrigerate unsealed jars.

Notes

• Use ripe peaches for the best flavor—freestone varieties are easiest to peel.
• Test thickness by spooning jam onto a chilled plate; it should set in a minute. I learned this from my grandma, and it’s foolproof!
• Store unsealed jars in the fridge and use within a month.

Allergy Information: Check ingredients for allergens, especially pectin or bourbon additives. Verify with product labels for safety.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: Approximately 50 kcal
• Sugar: 12 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Protein: 0 g

Why You’ll Love This Jam

• Easy Peasy: Just 20 minutes of prep, and you’re halfway there.
• Boozy Twist: Bourbon adds a rich, warm flavor—optional but oh-so-good.
• Small Batch: Makes a few jars, perfect for trying or sharing.
• Seasonal Star: Captures the best of summer peaches.
• Canning Friendly: Store it for months to enjoy year-round.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

• Ripe Peaches: Use soft, juicy peaches for max flavor.
• Sterilize Jars: for safety.
• Test Thickness: Spoon some jam onto a chilled plate; it should set in a minute.
• Bourbon Balance: Start with 1 tbsp if you want a milder flavor.

Fun Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne for a sweet-heat vibe.
• Vanilla Boost: Skip bourbon and double the vanilla extract.
• Herbal Touch: Stir in fresh basil leaves for a unique twist.
• Fruity Mix: Add a cup of chopped mango for a tropical flair.

Storage and Make-Ahead Ideas

Storage: Sealed jars last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3 weeks. Unsealed jars? Pop them in the fridge for up to a month.

Make-Ahead: Make this when peaches are in season for holiday gifts or winter treats.

Serving Suggestions

Ideas: Slather on warm biscuits, swirl into oatmeal, or top vanilla ice cream. It’s also a killer glaze for grilled pork or chicken.

Pairings: Enjoy with coffee for breakfast or pair with cheese on a charcuterie board.

Why I Love This Jam

This Bourbon Peach Jam is pure nostalgia for me. Growing up, I’d spend summers with my grandma, who’d turn farm-fresh peaches into jars of magic. We’d sit on her porch, spreading jam on homemade bread, chatting about life. Peaches are a Southern staple, and adding bourbon gives it a modern twist. This recipe keeps that old-school charm but feels fancy enough for a dinner party. It’s my way of sharing a little love, one jar at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip the bourbon?

Yep, leave it out or swap with vanilla extract for a kid-friendly version.

Can I use frozen peaches?

Sure, thaw and drain them first to avoid extra liquid messing with the set.

How do I know if my jars sealed?

Press the lid’s center—if it pops up and down, it’s not sealed. Refrigerate those jars.

Can I make this without pectin?

It’s trickier, but you can cook longer for a looser jam. Pectin ensures a firm set.

Why use bottled lemon juice?

It’s safer for canning, with consistent acidity, per USDA guidelines.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger pot and process in batches to ensure proper sealing.

Is this jam vegan?

Yes, if you use vegan pectin—check the label!

See Also my Blueberry Lemon Jam Recipe

See Also my Homemade Mixed Berry Jam

Conclusion

This Bourbon Peach Jam is a sweet, boozy way to savor summer’s best peaches. It’s easy, versatile, and perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. Whip up a batch, share your jam-making stories in the comments, and pin this for your next canning adventure!