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Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam Recipe

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4.5 from 3 reviews

A rich and flavorful Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam combining fresh blackberries with the warmth of bourbon and the sweetness of vanilla, perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 5 cups fresh blackberries
  • 1 cup white granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons bourbon (Blanton’s recommended)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (real vanilla)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 lemon, zested

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the blackberries thoroughly and remove any stems or soft spots. Zest the lemon and squeeze out 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Measure out the sugar, vanilla extract, and bourbon.
  2. Cook the Berries: In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberries, 1 cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring often as the berries release their juices and soften.
  3. Mash Berries: Use a potato masher to gently crush the berries to your desired chunkiness, which will help the jam thicken while retaining some texture.
  4. Simmer the Jam: Continue to simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring regularly until it thickens and reduces.
  5. Add Flavorings: Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons bourbon, then simmer for an additional 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Test the Set: Place a small spoonful of the jam on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed and doesn’t run immediately, the jam is ready.
  7. Jar the Jam: Spoon the hot jam into clean jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal tightly, and allow jars to cool on the counter.
  8. Store: Once cooled, refrigerate the jam and consume within one month, or process in a water bath if longer shelf life is desired.

Notes

  • Use frozen blackberries if fresh are not available, but fresh provide the best flavor.
  • For deeper caramel flavor, substitute half the sugar with brown sugar.
  • Real vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference in taste compared to imitation vanilla.
  • Testing the set on a chilled plate is the best way to achieve the perfect jam consistency.
  • Always sterilize jars properly if you plan on preserving the jam for longer than one month.
  • The bourbon can be adjusted to taste, but avoid adding too much as it can overpower the jam.