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When the vibrant warmth of summer gives way to the crispness of autumn, I crave something that blends the season’s richness with a touch of indulgence. Enter my Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries—a delightful treat that transforms simple blackberries into an unforgettably luscious preserve. As the rich notes of bourbon mingle with the sweet aroma of maple and the comforting spice of cinnamon, you’ll find yourself transported to a cozy evening spent with friends, perhaps overlooking a sunset.

I stumbled upon this recipe during a lazy Sunday in the kitchen, where I had an abundance of fresh blackberries and a longing for something special. The result? A sweet-tart concoction that not only elevates your breakfast toast but also steals the show when served over ice cream or yogurt. It’s an easy-to-make delight that’s sure to impress guests or make your mornings feel just a bit more festive. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this sweet adventure!

Why are Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries irresistible?

Uniquely delicious: The blend of bourbon and maple syrup creates a rich, robust flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes total prep and cook time, you can whip up this gourmet delight with minimal effort.
Versatile treat: These preserves elevate everything from breakfast to dessert—perfect over pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream!
Perfect for gifting: Homemade gifts are always cherished; these jars of goodness are beautifully packaged and sure to impress.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether hosting a brunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit among family and friends!
Don’t miss out on our tips for easy homemade preserves that will make your cooking experience even more delightful!

Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries Ingredients

• A perfect mix for deliciousness!

For the Syrup

Light brown sugar – adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness to the preserves.
Filtered water – ensures a clean flavor for your syrup.
Maple syrup – brings depth and a unique sweetness that perfectly complements the bourbon.
Cinnamon stick – infuses this syrup with a comforting spice note that warms the soul.
Ground nutmeg – a pinch adds aromatic complexity, making it irresistible.
Bourbon – the star ingredient that gives a lovely, rich undertone to the blackberries.

For the Blackberries

Blackberries – ripe, fresh berries are essential for the best flavor and texture. Rinse them well to keep the preserves clean and delicious!

This recipe for Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries is not only simple but also offers a delightful and sophisticated twist to your homemade preserves.

How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries

Combine ingredients: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, stir together all ingredients except the bourbon and blackberries. Bring to a boil over high heat, letting the sugar dissolve completely. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
Infuse flavors: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cinnamon stick from the syrup. Stir in the bourbon and return the syrup to a boil. Gently add the blackberries and allow them to simmer for 5 minutes, until they soften and absorb the syrup’s flavors.
Prepare jars: While the blackberries and syrup cook together, gather and prepare your jar(s) for storing these delicious preserves. Make sure they are clean and dry for optimal freshness.
Transfer preserves: Carefully transfer the cooked preserves to the prepared jars using a slotted spoon. Pack the berries into the jars gently, tamping down on the jars a few times to settle the berries nicely.
Choose your storage: You can refrigerate or freeze the preserves at this stage to enjoy them later. If you choose to can them, follow the next step.
Can your preserves: For canning, ladle the warm syrup over the berries, leaving a ½-inch headspace. Remove any air bubbles, wipe the rims of the jars, affix the lids, and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Let the jars sit on the shelf for at least one month to allow the flavors to develop, and store them for up to 1 year.

Optional: Serve over vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries?

Transform your meal into a memorable experience with delightful accompaniments that elevate the flavors of this rich preserve.

Creamy Yogurt: The silkiness of Greek yogurt creates a heavenly contrast, making for a brunch favorite. Drizzle the preserves over a bowl of yogurt and sprinkle with granola for added texture.
Fluffy Pancakes: These blackberries add a gourmet touch to your fluffy stack. Serve warm syrupy blackberries atop your pancakes for a delightful, indulgent breakfast.
Homemade Biscuits: Buttery biscuits serve as a perfect vessel for this preserve. Each bite marries the flaky pastry with the rich, sweet berry flavors, creating an irresistible combination.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances beautifully with the warm syrupy blackberries. This combo makes for an elegant dessert that will sweeten any ending.
Savory Goat Cheese: Pairing the sweetness with tangy goat cheese on crostini creates an irresistible appetizer. The contrasting flavors and textures make for a sophisticated starter that’s sure to impress.
Sparkling Wine: For a refreshing beverage, opt for a sparkling rosé. The light bubbles and fruitiness of the wine complement the sweetness of the preserves without overwhelming it.

The charm of Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries lies in their versatility, encouraging you to indulge in culinary creativity!

How to Store and Freeze Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries

Fridge: Store the preserves in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Enjoy the rich flavor of your Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries throughout the month!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the preserves in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. Be sure to leave some headspace, as the mixture will expand when frozen.

Canning: If you opt to can your preserves, they can last up to 1 year on the shelf, allowing the flavors to deepen and mature deliciously.

Reheating: When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator or warm gently on the stove until heated through. Use them over pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream for a delightful treat!

Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—there’s always room for a twist that suits your taste buds!

Berry Mix: Combine blackberries with raspberries or blueberries for a deliciously fruity variation that adds new layers of flavor.
Spiced Infusion: Replace the cinnamon stick with a whole star anise for a unique aromatic notes; just remember to fish it out before jarring!
Maple Swap: Use an equal amount of honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup for a different sweet undertone that balances beautifully with the bourbon.
Nutty Crunch: For added texture, fold in chopped pecans or walnuts after simmering; their crunch pairs perfectly with the soft berries.
Zesty Addition: Stir in the zest of an orange or lemon right before jarring; it brightens up the preserves and gives a fresh, citrusy kick.
Low-Sugar Option: For a lighter version, swap half the brown sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, keeping flavors vibrant without extra guilt!
Richer Bourbon: Experiment with a darker bourbon or aged whiskey for a deeper, more complex flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to kick up the heat; this unexpected twist offers a fantastic contrast to the sweetness.

Let your imagination run wild and make these preserves truly your own!

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the syrup (minus the bourbon and blackberries) up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors deepen in the fridge. Simply boil the syrup and cool it before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to finalize your preserves, just heat the syrup back up, stir in the bourbon, and simmer the blackberries for 5 minutes as directed. This way, your homemade preserve retains its luscious quality and convenience—allowing you to effortlessly impress your family and guests with minimal last-minute effort!

Tips for the Best Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries

Use Fresh Berries: Fresh, ripe blackberries yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid overripe or mushy ones for a delightful crunch.
Watch the Syrup: Keep an eye on the syrup while simmering to prevent it from becoming too thick. You want a pourable consistency for the preserves!
Cool Before Jarring: Ensure the syrup cools slightly before pouring over the blackberries. This prevents the berries from breaking down too much during packing.
Canning Safety: If canning, follow proper sterilization techniques for your jars to ensure safe storage. This helps your Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries last longer!
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup to suit your taste. Some prefer it sweeter, while others enjoy a more tart balance!

Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe blackberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting blackberries, look for plump, firm berries that are deep purple to black in color. Avoid those with dark spots all over or signs of mold. They should yield slightly to pressure but not be mushy, indicating the perfect balance of ripeness.

How should I store the Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries?
For refrigeration, transfer your preserves into airtight jars and store them in the fridge, where they’ll keep for about 3 weeks. If you wish to prolong their life, try freezing them—just be sure they’re in freezer-safe containers and leave some headspace to accommodate expansion during freezing. They’ll last up to 6 months in the freezer.

Can I freeze these preserves? If so, how?
Of course! Freezing your Maple Brown Sugar Bourbon Blackberries is easy. First, allow the preserves to cool slightly. Then, pour them into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. Seal them tightly to prevent air from getting in, and freeze for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the refrigerator or reheat gently on the stove.

What should I do if my syrup is too thick?
If your syrup becomes too thick while cooking, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more water—start with a tablespoon or two and stir it in over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. This should give you a lovely syrupy texture that will perfectly coat your blackberries without overpowering them.

Can I give these preserves as gifts? Any special packaging tips?
Very! These preserves make wonderful gifts! To create a beautiful presentation, opt for small, clean glass jars with decorative lids. Add a personal touch with a handwritten label, mentioning the ingredients and the unique flavors. You can even tie a charming ribbon around the jar for that extra special finish!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re considering dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this recipe contains alcohol from the bourbon. If you’re making this for individuals avoiding alcohol, consider substituting the bourbon with a splash of extra maple syrup or a flavored extract that complements the recipe. Always double-check for allergies, especially with the sugar and any spices used.