This Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam is a sweet treat that’s perfect for pancakes or toast. The juicy blackberries mix beautifully with vanilla and a splash of bourbon for a fun twist!
Making jam might sound tricky, but trust me, it’s as easy as pie! I love spreading this on my morning toast; it instantly makes my breakfast feel fancy. You’ll want to try it, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries are the star here! They are juicy and flavorful. If blackberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones—just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps preserve the jam and balances the tartness of the berries. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind it may change the flavor slightly.
Bourbon: The bourbon adds a warm, complex flavor. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with a splash of apple juice or omit it entirely.
Vanilla: Fresh vanilla bean gives the jam an aromatic richness. However, vanilla extract works just fine too! I prefer extract for ease, but the bean adds a special touch.
How Do I Get My Jam to Thicken Up?
Thickening jam can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Use a mixture of mashed and whole berries for texture and to encourage natural pectin release.
- If you want a thicker consistency, adding fruit pectin helps, especially if you’re using low-pectin fruits like blackberries.
- Boil the jam long enough for the water to evaporate and for it to reach the right gelling point; a thermometer should read around 220°F (104°C).
- Don’t skip the chilled plate test: a small dollop of jam should gel nicely after a minute. If it’s not ready, cook a little longer.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously thick jam that’s sure to please!
Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh blackberries (about 1 pound)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean (split and scraped)
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (optional, for thicker jam)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful jam will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus some time for cooling. If you opt to process the jars for longer shelf life, factor in an additional 10-15 minutes. Overall, you can expect to have delicious jam ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackberries:
Start by rinsing your fresh blackberries in cool water. Once they’re clean, use a potato masher or fork to mash them slightly in a large pot. This will help release their juices and flavor.
2. Mix in the Goodness:
Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and either vanilla extract or the seeds from the vanilla bean to the mashed blackberries. Give it a good stir to combine everything well.
3. Add Pectin (If Using):
If you want a thicker jam, dissolve the fruit pectin in a little water according to the package instructions. Stir the pectin into your berry mixture.
4. Cook the Jam:
Place the pot over medium heat. Stir the mixture often and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, continue to stir and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the jam thickens. To check if it’s ready, drop a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it gels after 1 minute, it’s perfect!
5. Add Bourbon:
After thickening, remove the pot from heat and stir in the bourbon. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
6. Jar the Jam:
Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Be cautious not to burn yourself!
7. Seal and Cool:
Place the lids on the jars tightly and allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate your jam.
8. Enjoy!
Your Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam can be enjoyed within 3 weeks if stored in the fridge. Use it on toast, pancakes, or even as a topping for desserts. For longer storage, consider using a water bath canner to process the jars.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor and treat yourself to this delicious homemade jam!
FAQ for Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam
Can I Use Frozen Blackberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
What If I Don’t Want to Use Bourbon?
No problem! You can either omit the bourbon entirely or substitute it with a splash of apple juice or vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic option. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
How Should I Store Leftover Jam?
Store the jam in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you’re processing it in a water bath canner, it can last for up to a year when sealed properly and stored in a cool, dark place.
Can I Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?
While sugar helps with preservation and thickening, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1/3 without significantly impacting the jam’s flavor. Just keep in mind that it may not set as firmly and won’t last as long.
