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Easy Small Batch Fresh Peach Jam Recipe with Vanilla Bean

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A quick and easy small batch peach jam recipe featuring fresh peaches and a real vanilla bean for a rich, nuanced flavor. Perfect for beginners and small batches without fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups fresh ripe peaches, peeled and chopped (about 5 medium peaches)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean pod, split and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract as substitute)
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Wash 5 medium ripe peaches. Peel the skin off carefully using a sharp paring knife (about 10 minutes). Chop peaches into small, roughly 1/2-inch pieces (about 3 cups). Set aside.
  2. Split the vanilla bean pod lengthwise using a knife. Scrape out the tiny seeds with the back of the blade into a small bowl. Reserve the pod for cooking.
  3. In a medium saucepan, add chopped peaches, granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vanilla seeds, and the vanilla pod. Pour in 1/4 cup water.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves (about 5 minutes). Bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to avoid sticking or burning.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring every few minutes until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
  6. Test the jam by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate and letting it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles and holds shape when pushed with a finger, it is done. If not, simmer 5 more minutes and test again.
  7. Remove and discard the vanilla pod once the jam is thickened to your liking.
  8. Pour the hot jam into a sterilized glass jar or container. Let cool to room temperature before sealing. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3-4 weeks.

Notes

Peeling peaches is key for a silky jam texture. Stir gently and often to prevent burning. Use fresh lemon juice for best pectin activation. The vanilla bean pod should be simmered with the jam for full flavor and removed before storing. Small batch cooking allows better control over texture and flavor. Frozen peaches can be used if thawed and drained. For a lower sugar version, reduce sugar or use natural substitutes but expect a softer set.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach jam, vanilla bean jam, small batch jam, fresh peach jam, easy jam recipe, beginner jam recipe, homemade peach jam