Print

Homemade Peach Preserves with Vanilla Bean

homemade peach preserves with vanilla bean - featured image

A small batch, easy-to-make peach preserves recipe infused with vanilla bean for a delicate, aromatic sweetness. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at home with a luscious, spoonable texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Rinse peaches under cool water. Peel by blanching in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water. Pit and chop into 1/2-inch pieces.
  2. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Reserve the pod for simmering.
  3. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine peaches, sugar, lemon juice, water, vanilla seeds, and the vanilla pod. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat mixture over medium heat to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 30-35 minutes, mashing some peaches for desired texture, until jam-like consistency is reached (220°F or coats the back of a spoon).
  5. Remove and discard the vanilla pod. Test the set by placing a teaspoon of preserves on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it is ready. If not, cook longer.
  6. Ladle hot preserves into sterilized glass jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal tightly. Let jars cool at room temperature.

Notes

Use freestone peaches for easier pitting and better texture. Keep heat moderate to avoid scorching. Test the set with a chilled plate. Vanilla bean pods can be reused for sugar infusions. For lower sugar, reduce to 3/4 cup but expect a softer set. Vanilla extract can substitute the bean if added after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach preserves, vanilla bean, homemade jam, small batch preserves, fruit preserves, easy peach jam, gluten-free, vegan