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Perfect Spiced Peach Jam Recipe with Cardamom and Vanilla

spiced peach jam - featured image

A small batch peach jam infused with warm cardamom and creamy vanilla, perfect for spreading on toast or gifting. This easy recipe balances sweetness and spice for a delicious homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups peeled and chopped fresh peaches (about 67 medium peaches)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 45 cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or 1 teaspoon ground cardamom)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Wash, peel, and chop peaches into roughly 1/2-inch pieces (about 10 minutes). Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds to loosen skin if desired.
  2. Lightly crush cardamom pods using the flat side of a knife or mortar and pestle. Skip if using ground cardamom.
  3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, water, and crushed cardamom pods. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes to dissolve sugar and meld flavors.
  4. Place saucepan over medium heat and bring mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer and stir frequently to prevent sticking and scorching. Cook for 20-25 minutes until thickened.
  5. Test jam doneness by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it is set. If not, continue simmering and test every 5 minutes.
  6. Remove pan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and optional cinnamon. Remove cardamom pods to avoid bitterness.
  7. Ladle hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal with lids. Let cool at room temperature before refrigerating.
  8. Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.

Notes

Blanch peaches for easier peeling. Crush cardamom pods to release aroma and remove before jarring to avoid bitterness. Stir gently and consistently to prevent burning. Use the chilled plate test to check jam setting. Adjust sugar based on peach sweetness. For low sugar, substitute half sugar with honey or maple syrup but note it may affect setting.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach jam, spiced peach jam, cardamom jam, vanilla jam, homemade jam, small batch jam, fruit preserves, gluten-free jam, vegan jam