Easy Small Batch Fresh Peach Jam Recipe No Pectin Perfect for Beginners
This easy small batch fresh peach jam uses no pectin and simple ingredients, making it perfect for beginners. It offers a fresh, sweet-tart flavor with a luscious texture and is quick to prepare in under 45 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 2 small jars (approximately 1 to 1.5 cups total) 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–5 medium fresh ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the peaches: Wash peaches thoroughly. Peel using a paring knife or blanch by dropping peaches into boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath to loosen skins. Chop peeled peaches into 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) pieces.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir gently to combine and let sit for 10 minutes to release juices and dissolve sugar.
- Cook the jam: Place saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until mixture bubbles, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning, for 25-30 minutes until thickened.
- Check consistency: Place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let cool for a minute. If it wrinkles and does not flood back, jam is ready. If runny, continue simmering and check every 5 minutes.
- Optional vanilla addition: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after removing from heat for added flavor.
- Jar and cool: Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars leaving 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) headspace. Seal jars and cool to room temperature. Store in fridge for 2-3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Keep heat at a gentle simmer to avoid caramelizing sugar and stirring often to prevent burning. Use ripe peaches for natural pectin and flavor. Lemon juice is crucial for jam to thicken. Test jam consistency with chilled plate test. Sterilize jars to prevent spoilage. Jam can be frozen for longer storage. Variations include adding berries, spices, or reducing sugar with chia seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (40g)
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 14
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
Keywords: peach jam, small batch jam, no pectin jam, homemade jam, fresh peach jam, beginner jam recipe, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves