MAPLE PEACH WHISKY JAM (SMALL-BATCH)

Maple peach whisky jam is a delicious way to savor late summer peaches! A small-batch favorite in our home, it’s the next best thing to enjoying fresh, juicy fruit.

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

  • Three 250ml (or any combination of) heat-proof glass jars to hold approximately 750ml (3 cups)
  • Measuring cups and spoons or a digital kitchen scale
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Medium pot
  • Digital kitchen thermometer
  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
  • Optional: Ladle
  • Damp cloth

INGREDIENTS 

  • 2 ½ cups (approximately 3 medium) chopped peaches, skins on or off (your preference)
  • ¾ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons powdered pectin crystals
  • 1 tablespoon whisky (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare the Jars: Wash your canning jars and lids thoroughly with hot, soapy water. Rinse well and dry them. Set aside.
  • Combine Ingredients: In the medium-sized pot, add the chopped peaches, maple syrup, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin crystals. Stir well to combine.
  • Cook the Jam: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Continue boiling, stirring occasionally, until the jam reaches 222°F (105°C) on a candy thermometer. This may take some time, especially those last few degrees, so be patient!
  • Add Whisky (Optional): Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the whisky.
  • Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the clean jars, leaving about ¼-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a damp cloth to remove any spills.
  • Seal and Cool: Securely screw on the lids. Let the jars cool completely at room temperature.
  • Storage: Store the cooled jam in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Recipe Notes:

  • Peach Prep: I prefer to leave the peach skins on for added texture and fiber, but feel free to peel them if you prefer. If you peel them, you might need an extra peach to make up for the lost volume.
  • Thermometer is Key: For the best results, use a candy thermometer. It ensures the jam reaches the proper setting point.
  • Alternative Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other stone fruits like plums, cherries, or apricots. You can even create a mix!
  • Processing for Longer Storage: If you want to store the jam for longer than two weeks, you can process the jars in a water bath canner according to standard canning procedures. However, this recipe is designed for short-term refrigerated storage.
  • Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly. However, sugar is essential for proper gelling, so don’t reduce it too much.

20 DORM ROOM ESSENTIALS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Heading off to college is such an exciting milestone, and preparing for dorm life is all part of the adventure. I still remember how much fun it was to gather everything I needed to create a space that felt truly my own—it was like the first real step into independence.

For freshmen ready to transform their dorm into a cozy retreat or returning students looking to refresh their setup, having the right essentials makes all the difference. From practical must-haves that bring comfort and convenience to little luxuries that elevate the everyday, creating a functional and inviting space lays the foundation for an unforgettable college experience.

BED SHEETS

Comfortable and easy-to-care-for bed sheets are essential for dorm living. Opt for soft, breathable materials like cotton or microfiber. Make sure to select twin XL sheets to fit most dorm mattresses.

Examples:

  • Amazon Basics Lightweight Microfiber 3-Piece Bed Sheet Set, Twin XL, Blush Pink
  • Linen Market Ultra-Soft & Cooling 3-Piece Twin Bedding Sheet Set, Light Blue Floral

PILLOWS

A quality pillow ensures restful sleep. Choose one based on your sleeping style—side, back, or stomach. Memory foam or down alternatives are versatile and popular choices.

Examples:

  • HIMOON Bed Pillows for Sleeping, Cooling, Set of 2
  • Amazon Basics Down Alternative Pillow, Soft Density, Pack of 2

PILLOWCASES

Pillowcases protect your pillows while adding a decorative touch. Match them to your sheets or mix and match for a pop of color.

Examples:

  • FLXXIE Microfiber Pillowcases, Wrinkle-Resistant, 20×30, Blush Pink
  • FLXXIE 6-Pack Microfiber Pillowcases, Ultra-Soft, 20×30, White

DUVET SET

A duvet set transforms your bed and keeps it cozy. Look for one that includes a removable, washable cover for easy cleaning.

Examples:

  • BELADOR All-Season Down Alternative Duvet Insert, Twin
  • DOWNCOOL Lightweight Pink Comforter, Twin Size

AREA RUG

An area rug adds warmth and style to your dorm. Go for durable, easy-to-clean options with a low pile for high-traffic areas.

Examples:

  • SAFAVIEH Moroccan Tassel Shag Area Rug, Ivory & Beige
  • Fortsea Washable Non-Slip Area Rug, 5×7, Vintage Design

HEADBOARD

A headboard enhances your bed’s look and provides back support. Choose one that’s both stylish and functional.

Examples:

  • Modway Annabel Velvet Tufted Twin Headboard, Pink
  • Modway Emily Upholstered Twin Headboard, Ivory

THROW BLANKET

A throw blanket is perfect for added warmth and decor. Look for soft, lightweight designs that are easy to care for.

Examples:

  • NEWCOSPLAY Silky Flannel Fleece Blanket, Ivory Checkered
  • FY FIBER HOUSE Fuzzy Throw Blanket, Beige Heart Checkered

NIGHTSTAND

A nightstand keeps essentials like a phone, lamp, and books within reach. Choose compact designs with storage features.

Examples:

  • Huuger Nightstand with Charging Station and Fabric Drawers
  • Yoobure Modern Nightstand with Open Storage Shelf

DESK LAMP

An adjustable desk lamp is a must for late-night studying. Look for features like brightness levels and eye-caring light.

Examples:

  • Vicsoon LED Desk Lamp with Wireless Charger, Pink
  • DEEPLITE LED Desk Lamp with Touch Control, White

LAUNDRY BASKET/BAG

A sturdy, portable laundry basket or bag makes trips to the laundry room hassle-free. Collapsible designs are great for saving space.

Examples:

  • Simple Houseware Double Laundry Hamper with Removable Bags
  • 75L Tall Laundry Hamper with Handles, Waterproof

UNDER-BED STORAGE

Maximize dorm space with under-bed storage containers for clothing, shoes, or seasonal items. Containers with wheels are extra convenient.

Examples:

  • Rubbermaid 68-Quart Rolling Under-Bed Storage Box
  • PHINOX Under-Bed Storage with Wheels, 2-Pack

STORAGE OTTOMAN

A storage ottoman doubles as a seat, footrest, and hidden storage for books or electronics. Select one that fits your dorm decor.

Examples:

  • Amazon Basics Tufted Storage Ottoman, Burlap Beige
  • SONGMICS Velvet Foldable Storage Bench with Extra Compartments

CLOSET ORGANIZERS

Maximize your dorm closet with hanging organizers for clothes, shoes, and accessories. Compact designs help keep things neat.

Examples:

  • Simple Houseware 6-Shelf Hanging Closet Organizer, Grey
  • MAX Houser Hanging Shoe Organizer with Pockets, Beige

SHOWER CADDY

A portable shower caddy is essential for keeping your toiletries organized during dorm bathroom trips.

Examples:

  • Attmu Mesh Shower Caddy Tote with 8 Pockets
  • Casabella Plastic Shower Tote with Drainage Holes

BATH TOWELS

Invest in soft, quick-drying bath towels for daily use. Microfiber options save space and dry faster than cotton.

Examples:

  • JML Microfiber Quick-Dry Bath Towels, 2-Pack
  • Amazon Basics Quick-Dry Cotton Bath Towels, White, Set of 4

DESK ORGANIZER

Stay productive with a desk organizer to store pens, notebooks, and other essentials. Compact designs help reduce clutter.

Examples:

  • SimpleHouseware Mesh Desk Organizer with Drawer
  • Marbrasse Rotating Desk Organizer with Compartments

EXTENSION CORD WITH USB PORTS

Keep your devices charged and accessible with an extension cord featuring USB ports. A must-have for dorm life!

Examples:

  • Anker PowerExtend USB-C Power Strip with Surge Protection
  • Belkin Surge Protector Power Strip with USB Ports, 6 Outlets

MIRROR

A full-length or over-the-door mirror is great for getting ready in the morning and making your space feel larger.

Examples:

  • NeuType Full-Length Mirror with Aluminum Frame, Gold
  • Mkono Over-The-Door Mirror with Hooks, Black

WALL DECOR

Personalize your dorm with posters, tapestries, or string lights to make it feel cozy and inviting.

Examples:

  • Mkono Hanging Photo Display with Lights, Wooden
  • Lush Decor Bohemian Mandala Tapestry, Blue

INSULATED WATER BOTTLE

Stay hydrated throughout your busy day with a durable, insulated water bottle that keeps drinks hot or cold.

Examples:

  • Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Straw Lid, 32 oz
  • Contigo Autoseal Chill Stainless Steel Water Bottle, 24 oz