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Flavorful Bourbon Peach Jam Recipe with Fresh Thyme

bourbon peach jam - featured image

A delightful twist on classic peach jam with the warm depth of bourbon and the herbal notes of fresh thyme, perfect for breakfast or gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and chopped (about 1.2 pounds or 550 grams)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30 ml)
  • 34 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (60 ml) – optional but highly recommended
  • 1 packet powdered pectin (about 1.75 oz / 50 g)
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peaches by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to peel easily. Chop into roughly 1/2-inch pieces and set aside 4 cups.
  2. Combine the chopped peaches with 2 cups granulated sugar in a large pot. Stir gently and let sit for 15 minutes to macerate.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 3-4 fresh thyme sprigs, keeping the woody stems intact for removal later.
  4. Dissolve 1 packet powdered pectin in 1/4 cup cold water in a small bowl and stir until smooth.
  5. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil, stirring frequently. Add the pectin mixture and boil hard for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1/4 cup bourbon. Taste and simmer gently if too boozy.
  7. Remove thyme sprigs to avoid woody bits.
  8. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal tightly.
  9. Let jars cool completely at room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or process in a hot water bath for longer shelf life.

Notes

Use the blanch-and-shock method to peel peaches easily. Add bourbon off the heat to preserve flavor. Stir constantly during boiling to prevent scorching. Test jam set with chilled plate method. If jam doesn’t set, simmer longer or add more pectin. Dried thyme can be used but reduce amount by half.

Nutrition

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