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Earl Grey and Bourbon Blackberry Jam with Vanilla Bean

Earl Grey and Bourbon Blackberry Jam with Vanilla Bean

Discover a bold twist on blackberry jam with this Earl Grey and Bourbon Blackberry Jam with Vanilla Bean recipe. The floral notes of Earl Grey tea, rich warmth of bourbon, and the subtle sweetness of vanilla create a sophisticated jam that’s perfect for breakfasts, charcuterie boards, and creative desserts. Enjoy this surprising, flavorful take on a classic spread!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 250ml jars
Course: Side Dish
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1000g fresh blackberries
  • 750g granulated sugar
  • 30ml fresh lemon juice
  • 4 Earl Grey tea bags
  • 60ml bourbon whiskey
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
  • 3 tsp powdered pectin

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, steep the Earl Grey tea bags in 100ml of boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and set the concentrated tea aside.
  2. Clean and sort the blackberries, removing any stems or debris.
  3. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, and the Earl Grey tea concentrate. Stir to combine.
  4. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the pot.
  5. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves completely.
  6. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. After 20 minutes, add the bourbon and pectin. Stir well to incorporate.
  8. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the jam back to a rolling boil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  9. To test for doneness, place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it's ready. If not, continue cooking for 2-3 minute intervals, testing after each.
  10. Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove from heat and skim off any foam.
  11. Remove the vanilla bean pod.
  12. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
  13. Wipe the rims clean, apply lids and bands, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
  14. Remove jars and allow to cool completely before storing.

Notes

Here are some creative variations for the Earl Grey and Bourbon Blackberry Jam with Vanilla Bean recipe:
  1. Spiced Blackberry Jam
    • Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves to the blackberry mixture while cooking for a warm, spiced flavor.
  2. Blackberry-Basil Jam
    • Incorporate 100g of finely chopped fresh basil into the jam during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a refreshing herbal twist.
  3. Blackberry-Jalapeño Jam
    • Add 1 finely chopped jalapeño (seeds removed) to the blackberry mixture to create a sweet and spicy jam that pairs well with cheese.
  4. Blackberry-Grand Marnier Jam
    • Substitute bourbon with 100ml of Grand Marnier (or another orange liqueur) for a citrusy flavor that complements the blackberries.
  5. Chai-Spiced Blackberry Jam
    • Replace Earl Grey tea with chai tea bags and add a pinch of cardamom and ginger for a fragrant, spiced jam.
  6. Coconut Blackberry Jam
    • Stir in 50g of unsweetened shredded coconut during the last few minutes of cooking for a tropical twist.
  7. Lemon-Thyme Blackberry Jam
    • Replace vanilla bean with 5g of fresh thyme leaves and add the zest of one lemon for a bright, aromatic flavor.
  8. Blackberry-Raspberry Jam
    • Mix in 250g of fresh raspberries with the blackberries for a mixed berry jam that adds depth and complexity.
  9. Blackberry-Mint Jam
    • Add 50g of finely chopped fresh mint leaves during the last few minutes of cooking for a refreshing flavor profile.
  10. Blackberry-Peach Jam
    • Combine 500g of blackberries with 500g of diced peaches for a sweet and fruity jam that highlights both flavors beautifully.
These variations allow you to explore different flavor profiles while maintaining the essence of the original blackberry jam recipe, making each version unique and delightful!