There’s something irresistibly comforting about a jar of homemade jam, but when you add a splash of bourbon to ripe, juicy peaches? Magic happens. This bold and comforting Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe is a Southern classic with a boozy twist that elevates breakfast, cheese boards, and baked treats to gourmet heights.
Imagine opening a jar and catching the heady aroma of sun-ripened peaches layered with warm vanilla, rich bourbon, and a subtle touch of cinnamon. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, swirling it into yogurt, or gifting it to someone special, this bourbon-infused peach spread is the flavor bomb you didn’t know your pantry needed.
Let’s walk through how to create this sweet and sultry jam with simple ingredients and plenty of love. 🍑🥃
Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe
- 🍑 Bursting with Peach Flavor – Fresh summer peaches shine with every bite.
- 🥃 A Boozy Twist – A hint of bourbon adds depth without overpowering.
- 🕒 Quick Prep Time – Only 30 minutes of active cooking.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly – Store for months and enjoy peach season year-round.
- 🎁 Perfect for Gifting – Wrap it up for a gourmet edible gift.
- 💡 Versatile Uses – Great on toast, waffles, cheese boards, and more.
- 🌿 Customizable Flavors – Add herbs, cinnamon, or even ginger.
- 🫙 Small Batch Friendly – Scale up or down based on your peach haul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into your homemade bourbon peach preserve:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh ripe peaches (about 8 medium), peeled and chopped Use freestone peaches—they’re easier to pit and have great texture for jam.
- 2 cups granulated sugar Draws out juices and preserves the fruit.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice Provides acidity for safe canning and balances sweetness.
- 2 tbsp bourbon (plus more to taste) Adds rich, smoky caramel notes—don’t skip it!
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances warmth and aroma.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional) Lends cozy spice notes—perfect for fall batches.
- 1 package (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin Ensures your jam sets properly.
🧑🍳 Substitutions:
- No pectin? Use a longer cook time + lemon zest for a natural pectin boost.
- No bourbon? Try brandy, dark rum, or skip for a non-alcoholic peach jam.
- Peaches out of season? Use frozen peaches (thawed and drained).
How to Make This Easy Homemade Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe for Canning
Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own boozy peach jam with bourbon:
1. Prepare the Peaches
- Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds.
- Transfer to an ice bath to loosen skins.
- Peel and chop into small pieces.
Pro Tip: Use a paring knife and peel over a bowl to catch all juices!
2. Cook the Fruit Base
- In a large saucepan, mix chopped peaches, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Let sit 10 minutes to release juices naturally.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring regularly.
3. Add the Pectin
- Stir in powdered pectin.
- Continue boiling hard for 1 full minute.
4. Add the Flavor Bombs
- Stir in bourbon, vanilla, and cinnamon (if using).
- Simmer for 5 more minutes to thicken slightly.
- Bourbon will cook off, leaving behind its caramel-sweet notes.
5. Test the Set
- Drop a spoonful onto a chilled plate.
- Run your finger through it. If it holds shape = done!
- If runny, simmer 2–3 minutes more and test again.
6. Jar & Process
- Sterilize jars by boiling for 10 minutes.
- Fill jars with hot jam, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
- Wipe rims, add lids, and screw bands finger-tight.
- Water bath process for 10 minutes.
- Remove, cool, and wait for the “pop” of a successful seal!
Featured Image:
(Image suggestion: Overhead shot of a rustic wooden table with a glass jar of jam, peaches, a small bottle of bourbon, and a buttered toast spread with jam.)
Pro Tips for Perfect Jam Every Time
How long does it take for jam to set after canning?
Most jams set as they cool but may take 24–48 hours for full firmness.
Can I reduce the sugar in this jam?
Not if using regular pectin. Instead, use low/no sugar pectin and adjust accordingly.
What’s the best bourbon to use?
Use a mid-range bourbon—smooth and rich, like Maker’s Mark or Bulleit. Avoid flavored types for a clean profile.
Want extra flavor?
Add a pinch of nutmeg, grated fresh ginger, or rosemary for a gourmet twist.
Best Ways to Serve This Southern-Style Peach Jam
- Spread over buttermilk biscuits or sourdough toast
- Swirled into Greek yogurt or overnight oats
- Drizzled on pancakes, waffles, or French toast
- Glazed over grilled pork chops or chicken
- Paired with cheddar, brie, or goat cheese on a charcuterie board
- Baked into thumbprint cookies or jam bars
Related Recipes: Try our [Whiskey Apple Butter] and [Cinnamon Pear Jam] for more boozy fruit spreads.
Nutrition Facts (Per Tablespoon)
- Calories: 42
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Vitamin C: 3% DV
- Iron: 1% DV
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Sealed jars: Store in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.
- Opened jar: Refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.
- Freezer method: Leave 1/2-inch space at the top and freeze for up to 6 months.
- Reheating jam: Microwave in short bursts or warm gently on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this without pectin?
Yes, cook longer and use lemon zest + seeds as natural pectin sources.
Can I double this recipe?
You can, but larger batches may not set as well. Cook in wide, shallow pans to help evaporate moisture faster.
Is it safe to add more bourbon?
Yes, but add extra at the end of cooking, as the alcohol may prevent proper setting if too much remains.
Delicious Variations of This Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe
- Vanilla Bean Bourbon Jam: Use a scraped vanilla bean pod instead of extract.
- Spicy Bourbon Peach Jam: Add diced jalapeño or crushed red pepper for heat.
- Bourbon Cherry-Peach Jam: Mix half peaches and half pitted cherries.
- Maple Bourbon Peach Jam: Replace 1/4 cup sugar with maple syrup for deeper flavor.
- Vegan Version: This recipe is naturally vegan—no animal products needed!
- Refined Sugar-Free: Use coconut sugar or monk fruit blend with no-sugar pectin.
Final Thoughts: Spread the Love
If you’re craving a spoonful of sweet, Southern charm, this Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe delivers everything you love—juicy peaches, cozy spices, and a hint of indulgence from that splash of bourbon.
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Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe: A Sweet Southern Spread with a Boozy Kick
Description
Bourbon Peach Jam—sweet, juicy peaches meet rich bourbon for a bold, flavorful spread. Perfect on toast, biscuits, or as a gourmet gift!
Ingredients
4 cups fresh ripe peaches (about 8 medium-sized peaches), peeled and chopped
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons bourbon (plus more to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 package (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin
Instructions
1. Prepare the Peaches
Begin by peeling and chopping the peaches. To make peeling easier, blanch the peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them immediately to an ice water bath. The skins should slip right off. Once peeled, chop the peaches into small pieces.
2. Cook the Jam
In a large pot, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture together and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the peaches to release their juices.
Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Add the pectin and continue boiling for 1 minute.
Add the bourbon, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, if using. Stir and let the jam simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. The bourbon will cook off, leaving a deep, rich flavor behind.
3. Test the Jam’s Consistency
To check if your jam has reached the right consistency, place a spoonful of the jam on a cold plate and run your finger through it. If the jam holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready. If it’s still too runny, cook for a few more minutes and test again.
4. Jar the Jam
Sterilize your jars by boiling them for 10 minutes in a large pot of water. Carefully fill the jars with the hot jam, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on the jars, and tighten the rings.
Process the jars in a water bath for 10 minutes. Remove and let them cool completely. You’ll hear the lids “pop” as they seal. Once sealed, the jam can be stored at room temperature for up to a year.