Easy to prepare Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam is one of my favorite summertime preserves. This delightful jam captures the essence of ripe peaches and a hint of vanilla, making it perfect for breakfast or as a topping for desserts. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can enjoy homemade jam without the fuss of canning. Ideal for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself, this recipe will delight your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You only need three main ingredients—peaches, sugar, and vanilla extract—making it easy to whip up.
- Quick Preparation: This small batch recipe takes just 20 minutes of prep time, allowing you to enjoy your jam sooner.
- No Canning Required: With this recipe, there’s no need for complicated canning methods; just refrigerate and enjoy!
- Versatile Use: Perfect on toast, pancakes, or desserts, this jam adds a special touch to any meal.
- Seasonal Delight: Best made when peaches are at their peak ripeness, ensuring maximum flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium-sized deep saucepan
- Clean mason jars
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Kitchen towel
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium-sized deep saucepan: This allows for ample space when cooking the fruit mixture while preventing splatter.
- Clean mason jars: Essential for safely storing your jam once it’s ready; they should be sterilized to ensure freshness.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while helping break down the fruit.
Ingredients
For the Jam
- 3 pounds peaches, (about 12 peaches, pit removed, peach flesh finely chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
How to Make Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam
Step 1: Combine Peaches and Sugar
Add the peaches and the sugar to a medium-sized deep saucepan. Turn the heat to medium until the mixture begins to bubble.
Step 2: Simmer and Stir
Reduce the heat to simmer and stir. Allow the mixture to cook as the fruit naturally breaks down. Be sure to stir every 20 minutes or more frequently when the jam begins to thicken.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
When the jam has reached your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat. Add in the vanilla extract and stir well to combine.
Step 4: Jar It Up
Carefully pour the hot jam into clean and sterile mason jars. Ensure that the rim of each jar is clean and free from any jam residue.
Step 5: Seal Properly
Wipe down each lid with a damp cloth before placing it on top of the jar. Tighten until you feel slight resistance.
Step 6: Cool Down
Place each jar on a kitchen towel where they won’t be disturbed for twelve hours. As they cool, listen for that satisfying popping sound indicating they are sealed properly.
Step 7: Refrigerate
Once cooled, refrigerate your jam for immediate use. If sealed properly, it will keep in your refrigerator for up to six months!
How to Serve Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam
Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam is a delightful addition to various meals and snacks. Its sweet and aromatic flavor pairs wonderfully with many dishes, making it a versatile choice for any time of day.
On Toast
- Classic Breakfast: Spread a generous layer on toasted bread for a quick breakfast.
- Fancy Brunch: Serve on croissants or bagels with cream cheese for an elegant brunch option.
With Cheese
- Cheese Board: Pair the jam with soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for a delicious appetizer.
- Grilled Cheese: Add a spoonful to your grilled cheese sandwich for a sweet twist.
In Desserts
- Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
- Pancake Filling: Use as a filling in pancakes or crepes for added sweetness.
In Yogurt
- Healthy Snack: Mix into plain yogurt for a flavorful snack or breakfast option.
- Parfait Layering: Layer with granola and fresh fruit to create an enticing parfait.
How to Perfect Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam
Making Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam can be simple, but there are ways to enhance its flavor and texture. Follow these tips to ensure your jam turns out perfectly every time.
- Use ripe peaches: Ripe peaches provide the best flavor and sweetness, making your jam more delicious.
- Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the cooking process; overcooking can lead to a thick, less enjoyable texture.
- Adjust sugar levels: Depending on the sweetness of the peaches, you can adjust the sugar amount to suit your taste.
- Sterilize jars properly: Ensure your mason jars are clean and sterile to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness.
- Cool undisturbed: Allow the jars to cool undisturbed to ensure a proper seal forms, keeping your jam safe for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam
Serving Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some tasty options that enhance your jam experience.
- Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like cheddar and Gouda alongside crackers for a balanced snack.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits complements the peach flavors beautifully and adds freshness.
- Savory Scones: Serve warm scones flavored with herbs that contrast nicely against the sweet jam.
- Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars serve as crunchy bites that pair well with spreads like peach jam.
- Pork Chops: Glaze pork chops with this jam while grilling for a sweet-savory main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss roasted carrots or sweet potatoes in peach jam just before serving for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can ruin your delicious creation. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the sterilization: Not sterilizing jars can lead to spoilage. Always ensure jars are clean and sterile before filling them with jam.
- Overcooking the peaches: Cooking the peaches too long can turn them into mush. Watch closely as they simmer and remove them when they reach your desired consistency.
- Ignoring the sugar amount: Using too little sugar will affect the jam’s flavor and preservation. Measure accurately for the best taste and safety.
- Not checking the seal: Failing to check if the jar sealed properly can lead to spoilage. Listen for the popping sound as it cools to confirm a good seal.
- Rushing cooling time: Disturbing jars before they cool can break the seal. Let them sit undisturbed for at least twelve hours for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in sealed mason jars.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to six months once sealed.
- For immediate use, consume within two weeks.
Freezing Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam
- Use freezer-safe containers or mason jars.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.
- It can be frozen for up to one year.
Reheating Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm jam in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peaches for Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just thaw them completely before cooking, as this will help release their juices naturally.
How long does Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam last?
Once sealed, it lasts up to six months in the refrigerator. If not sealed, consume within two weeks.
Can I add other fruits to my vanilla peach jam?
Absolutely! You can mix in berries or other fruits for added flavor and texture. Just keep an eye on sugar levels as different fruits have varying sweetness.
Is it necessary to use vanilla extract?
While vanilla extract enhances flavor, you can omit it if preferred. The jam will still be delicious with just peaches and sugar!
Final Thoughts
This Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam is a delightful way to capture summer’s flavors. Its simplicity makes it easy for anyone to prepare. Feel free to customize by adding spices like cinnamon or incorporating other fruits. Enjoy this versatile jam on toast, pancakes, or even as a topping on desserts!
Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam
Indulge in the sweet taste of summer with this Easy Small Batch Vanilla Peach Jam. Bursting with the delightful flavors of ripe peaches and a hint of vanilla, this jam is perfect for breakfast or as a topping for desserts. With only three simple ingredients—peaches, sugar, and vanilla extract—this recipe is quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. Forget about complicated canning processes; simply refrigerate your homemade jam and enjoy it fresh. Whether you share it with friends or savor it yourself, this versatile jam adds a delicious touch to toast, pancakes, and more.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups (16 servings) 1x
Ingredients
- 3 pounds peaches (about 12, pit removed and finely chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium-sized deep saucepan, combine the chopped peaches and sugar over medium heat until bubbling.
- Reduce heat to simmer, stirring occasionally as the fruit breaks down.
- Once thickened to your liking, remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the hot jam into clean mason jars; ensure rims are clean.
- Seal jars properly and let cool undisturbed for 12 hours.
- Refrigerate for up to six months or use immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use ripe peaches for optimal flavor. Adjust sugar based on peach sweetness. For added depth, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or mixing in berries.
