The Most Irresistible Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam
This Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam is a rich, slightly boozy treat bursting with sweet-tart blackberry flavor. With a hint of warm vanilla and a splash of bourbon, this homemade jam is perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over pancakes, or pairing with a cheese board. Best of all, no pectin is needed—just simple ingredients and patience for a jam that’s as easy as it is delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 1/2 to 3 cups (about 8-10 servings) 1x
- Category: Jams & Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh blackberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped)
- 2 tbsp bourbon
Instructions
- Mash the Blackberries
- In a large saucepan, mash the blackberries with a fork or potato masher to release their juices.
- Add Sugar and Lemon Juice
- Stir in the sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for about 10 minutes to help the juices develop.
- Simmer Until Thickened
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Add Vanilla and Bourbon
- Stir in the vanilla extract (or vanilla bean scrapings) and bourbon. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cool and Store
- Let the jam cool slightly, then transfer it to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or process in a water bath for long-term storage.
Notes
- Use ripe blackberries for the best natural sweetness.
- Lemon juice helps the jam set properly, so don’t skip it!
- If you prefer a smoother jam, blend the blackberries before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg