A luxuriously sweet-and-savory spread crafted from smoky bacon, ripe peaches, and a splash of bourbon — the perfect gourmet condiment for cheese boards, grilled meats, or artisan toast.

Ingredients

• 1 pound thick-cut applewood smoked bacon, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 large ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup high-quality bourbon
• 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne (optional, for heat)
• Sea salt to taste

Preparation

1. Render the Bacon: In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy and the fat has rendered, about 10–12 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Carefully remove all but 1 Tablespoon of the rendered fat from the pan.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the remaining bacon fat and sauté over medium-low heat until deeply caramelized, about 12–15 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze and Simmer: Stir in the chopped peaches, brown sugar, maple syrup, vinegar, bourbon, Dijon mustard, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
4. Combine and Reduce: Return the bacon to the pan. Stir well and simmer the mixture gently for 25–30 minutes, or until thickened and jammy in consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, pulse the jam a few times in a food processor or use an immersion blender — but leave some texture for complexity.
6. Finish and Store: Taste and adjust seasoning with sea salt if needed. Cool to room temperature, then transfer to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Cook’s Notes

Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches?

Absolutely! You can use either canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches. This can save you time—no peeling required!

• If using canned peaches, use 1 to 1 1/2 cans, depending on size and sweetness.
• If using frozen peaches, thaw and drain first, and adjust the cooking time as needed to allow excess moisture to reduce fully.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve atop warm brie or goat cheese on crostini.
• Spoon over grilled pork chops or seared duck breast.
• Layer into gourmet burgers or pressed sandwiches.
• Swirl into roasted vegetables or creamy grits.