Homemade Fig Jam Recipe: A Sweet and Simple Preserve for Every Pantry

Fig jam is one of those delightful spreads that often gets overlooked, but once you try it, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t made it sooner. With its natural sweetness and rich, jammy texture, homemade fig jam is the perfect addition to your pantry. Whether you spread it on toast, pair it with cheeses, or add it to baked goods, fig jam adds a sophisticated touch to any meal. Plus, making your own fig jam allows you to control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary preservatives.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the process of making fig preserves without using pectin, ensuring a beautifully natural and flavorful jam every time.

Save

Why Homemade Fig Jam is a Must-Try

There’s something uniquely satisfying about making homemade preserves, and fig jam is no exception. When you make it yourself, you have full control over the ingredients. This means no artificial preservatives or pectin – just fresh, high-quality figs, sugar, and a touch of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.

Homemade fig jam is also an ideal way to preserve the harvest of fresh figs when they are in season. You’ll have a jar of sunshine ready to enjoy all year round. Plus, the process is simple and requires just a few basic ingredients, making it an accessible recipe for even the novice home cook.

Moreover, this fig jam can be used in so many ways. You can spread it on your morning toast, serve it alongside cheese platters, spoon it over ice cream, or use it as a filling for pastries. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients for Fig Jam

To make homemade fig jam, you’ll need only a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds of fresh figs – Be sure to choose ripe figs that are soft and fragrant.
• 2 cups of sugar – Adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of your figs.
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice – This will help balance the sweetness and provide some acidity to preserve the jam.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional) – For a hint of aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 cup of water – To help break down the figs and get the jam started.

That’s all! The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. You don’t need pectin or any fancy ingredients, just ripe figs and a few pantry staples.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fig Jam

Making fig jam at home is a straightforward process, and with these simple steps, you’ll have a batch of jam ready to enjoy.

1. Prepare the Figs

Start by washing your figs thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, cut off the stems and slice the figs into small pieces. You can leave the skin on, as it helps provide texture to the jam. However, if you prefer a smoother consistency, feel free to peel the figs before slicing.

2. Cook the Figs

Place the sliced figs in a large saucepan along with the water, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The figs will begin to break down and release their natural juices, creating a thick syrup.

For a slight twist, try infusing your fig jam with other flavors. For example, check out our Herb-infused Jam Recipe for ideas on adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to your fig jam for a unique flavor profile.

3. Mash the Figs

Once the figs have softened and the mixture has thickened, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the figs into your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash lightly. If you want a smoother jam, blend the mixture until it’s completely smooth.

4. Simmer to Thicken

Continue to simmer the fig mixture for another 15-20 minutes, stirring regularly. As it cooks, the jam will continue to thicken. To test its consistency, place a small amount of the jam on a plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready for canning.

5. Can and Store

Once your fig jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully spoon it into sterilized jars while it’s still hot. Seal the jars with lids and allow them to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store the jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 months or in the pantry if sealed properly.

Tip: For an additional sweet touch, add a small spoonful of Rhubarb Jam Recipes to your fig jam during the cooking process. The rhubarb will add a tart contrast that complements the figs beautifully.

Save

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making fig jam is quite easy, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using unripe figs: Unripe figs may lack the natural sweetness needed for a great jam. Make sure your figs are fully ripe for the best flavor.
• Not letting the jam thicken enough: Fig jam should have a spreadable consistency, not a runny one. Be patient and let it simmer until it thickens properly.
• Overcooking: Don’t overcook your figs. Once they break down into a syrup and the mixture thickens, stop cooking to avoid a jam that’s too dense or caramelized.

Avoid these errors, and you’ll end up with perfect homemade fig jam every time!

Serving and Presentation Tips for Fig Jam

Fig jam is a versatile spread that pairs well with various foods. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

• On Toast or Bagels: Spread a generous amount of fig jam on toast, bagels, or English muffins for a quick breakfast or snack.
• With Cheese: Serve fig jam as part of a cheese platter. It pairs particularly well with soft cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or cream cheese.
• In Desserts: Use fig jam as a filling for pastries, tarts, or cakes. You could also swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for extra sweetness.
• Pairing with Meats: Fig jam is fantastic when paired with grilled meats, such as pork or chicken, adding a sweet and savory element to your dish.

For a savory side, check out this Tex-Mex Squash Casserole that complements the sweetness of fig jam perfectly.

How to Store Leftover Fig Jam

Once your fig jam is made, storing it properly is key to ensuring it stays fresh. If you’ve made a batch of jam and want to store it for longer, follow these tips:

• Refrigerate: Store your homemade fig jam in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
• Canning: If you want to store your fig jam for longer, you can preserve it by canning it in sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are sealed tightly, and store them in a cool, dark place.
• Freezing: Fig jam can be frozen for up to 6 months if stored in a freezer-safe container. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the jar for expansion.

If you’re looking for other delicious jams to add to your pantry, don’t miss out on this France Fig Jam for a slightly different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

While this fig jam recipe is perfect as it is, there are plenty of ways to customize it:

• Add spices: For a warm flavor, you can add cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to the jam as it simmers.
• Try a different fruit: If you prefer a different flavor, substitute the figs with other fruits, such as plums, peaches, or even rhubarb. For example, check out our Rhubarb Muscat Wine Jam recipe for a unique jam variation.
• Less sugar: You can reduce the sugar to your liking or substitute it with a sugar alternative if you prefer a lower-sugar version.

Save

FAQ About Fig Jam

Can I use dried figs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried figs, but keep in mind that they may not yield the same consistency. To use dried figs, soak them in warm water for about an hour before cooking to rehydrate them.

Does fig jam need to be refrigerated?

Yes, once opened, fig jam should be stored in the refrigerator. If you plan to preserve it long-term, canning or freezing is the best option.

How long will homemade fig jam last?

Homemade fig jam typically lasts for 3 months in the refrigerator. If canned properly, it can last up to a year if stored in a cool, dark place.

Can I add pectin to my fig jam?

This recipe doesn’t use pectin, which is why it has a more natural texture and flavor. If you prefer a firmer jam, you can add pectin, but it’s not necessary for this recipe.

Conclusion

Making homemade fig jam is a rewarding and simple process that results in a sweet, flavorful treat that’s perfect for all occasions. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a jam that’s free from preservatives and packed with natural fig flavor. Whether you’re using it in baking, serving it with cheese, or spreading it on your morning toast, fig jam is a must-have in your pantry.

Give this fig preserves recipe a try and enjoy the taste of fresh, homemade fig jam. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes. For more jam inspiration, try our Gooseberry Blackberry Pepper Jam!

Print