Easy Small-Batch Peach Vanilla Bean Jam Recipe Perfect for Beginners
A beginner-friendly, small-batch peach vanilla bean jam that is quick to make and delivers a luscious texture with authentic vanilla flavor. Perfect for enjoying fresh peaches with a subtle vanilla twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups (12 tablespoons) of jam 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (600 g) fresh peaches, peeled and diced
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 whole vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
Instructions
- Wash the peaches thoroughly. Peel off the skin using a sharp paring knife or blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds and transfer to ice water to slip off skins easily. Dice peaches into roughly 1/2-inch chunks.
- Split the vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp knife and scrape out the seeds. Set both seeds and pod aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine diced peaches, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla seeds, and the vanilla pod. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out peach juices.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning.
- Test jam consistency by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and does not flood back together, it is set. If not, simmer a few more minutes and test again.
- Remove and discard the vanilla pod. Pour hot jam into clean, heatproof jars leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Let cool uncovered to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Refrigerate jam for up to 3 weeks. Flavor improves after a day or two as vanilla and peach meld.
Notes
Use ripe but firm peaches for best texture. Fresh lemon juice helps activate natural pectin. Stir frequently in the last 10 minutes to prevent scorching. Let jam cool before sealing jars to avoid condensation and spoilage. Vanilla bean pods provide better flavor and appearance than extract.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (40 g)
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 15
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 0.2
Keywords: peach jam, vanilla bean jam, small batch jam, homemade preserves, beginner jam recipe, easy peach jam, vegan jam, gluten-free jam