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Easy Small Batch Peach Vanilla Bean Jam Recipe No Pectin Perfect for Beginners

small batch peach vanilla bean jam - featured image

A simple, small batch peach vanilla bean jam recipe that uses no pectin and relies on natural fruit pectin and patience for a perfect set. Ideal for beginners and made with fresh peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and real vanilla bean.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh peaches (about 4 medium peaches), peeled and chopped
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peaches by washing, peeling, and chopping into small, even pieces. Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to remove skins easily. (Prep time: 10 minutes)
  2. Split the vanilla bean pod lengthwise and scrape out the tiny seeds. Set seeds and pod aside.
  3. Combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla seeds, and the pod in a medium saucepan. Stir gently and let rest for 10 minutes to macerate.
  4. Place saucepan over medium heat and bring mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
  5. Reduce heat to a steady simmer and continue stirring occasionally. Simmer for 25 to 35 minutes until jam thickens and bubbles slow.
  6. Test jam doneness by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape when pushed, it is done. If not, simmer longer and test every 5 minutes.
  7. Remove and discard the vanilla pod.
  8. Pour hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Let cool uncovered at room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.

Notes

Use ripe but firm peaches for best texture. Stir gently to keep some peach chunks intact. Patience is key to avoid burning and achieve proper set. Vanilla bean seeds add authentic flavor and texture; vanilla extract can be substituted. The cold plate test helps determine doneness. Store jam in refrigerator up to three weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach jam, vanilla bean jam, small batch jam, no pectin jam, homemade jam, beginner jam recipe, fruit preserves