Peach jam is a staple in our household, with its sweet, sun-kissed flavor capturing the essence of summer. While we don’t live in a region where peaches grow freely, we’ve found ways to keep this delightful preserve in our pantry year-round.

Today, I’m excited to share a twist on our traditional peach jam recipe that adds a bold kick: Ginger Bourbon Peach Jam. This fan-favorite not only elevates the flavor profile but also makes for a fantastic gift.

Peach Jam with a Twist

The classic peach jam is delicious, but adding ginger and bourbon takes it to a whole new level. The ginger adds a warm, spicy note that complements the natural sweetness of the peaches, while the bourbon provides a rich, smoky depth.

This combination creates a jam that’s not only perfect for your morning toast but also sophisticated enough to serve with cheese and crackers or as a glaze for meats.

Finding and Storing Peaches

As with our traditional peach jam, sourcing peaches requires a bit of creativity. Summertime is when peaches are most affordable, and I keep an eye out for deals at local farmers’ markets, grocery stores, and even fruit trucks that pass through town. Peaches that are slightly past their prime are perfect for this recipe, as their ripeness intensifies the flavor of the jam.

If I find a good deal, I buy in bulk and freeze the peaches for later use. Here’s a quick guide on how I do it:

1. Blanching and Peeling: Blanch the peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice water bath to make peeling easier.
2. Slicing and Treating: Slice the peaches and treat them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Freezing: Lay the slices on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to freezer bags.

Frozen peaches work just as well as fresh for making jam, ensuring we can enjoy this treat year-round.

The Ginger Bourbon Peach Jam recipe

Now, let’s dive into the Ginger Bourbon Peach Jam recipe. This easy-to-follow recipe yields a delicious, flavor-packed jam that’s sure to impress.

Spicing Up Tradition: Ginger Bourbon Peach Jam

Recipe by Jessie

Cuisine: Canning and PreservingDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

250 ml jars

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Ingredients

• 4 c finely chopped or crushed peaches*

• 2 Tbsp finely grated ginger root

• 5 c sugar

• 1 pkg (57 g) powdered pectin

• 1/4 c bourbon whiskey

Directions

• Combine peaches, ginger, and pectin in a large pot, and bring to a boil while stirring constantly.
• Add sugar, return to heat and bring to a full boil while stirring continuously.
• Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking, then remove from heat.
• Immediately after removing from heat, stir in the bourbon and mix well.
• Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
• Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids on, and secure the bands
• Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
• Remove from water bath, let cool, and store in a cool, dark place until opened. Keep refrigerated after opening.

Notes

• *For fresh peaches, remove skins by blanching the peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice water bath; peels should mostly just slip off at this point. If using frozen peaches, add 2 Tbsp lemon juice to prevent browning

Perfect for Gifting

This Ginger Bourbon Peach Jam is not only a treat for our family but also a hit among friends. I often include jars in gift baskets and use them as thank-you gifts. The unique flavor combination of ginger and bourbon makes it stand out, and the homemade touch adds a personal, thoughtful element.

Final Thoughts

In true Pennywise Plates fashion, this jam recipe is about making the most of what we have and adding a creative twist. By sourcing peaches strategically and using budget-friendly ingredients, we can enjoy a luxurious treat without breaking the bank.

Keep an eye out for those peach deals, and give this Ginger Bourbon Peach Jam a try. Your taste buds—and your gift recipients—will thank you! Happy jamming!