If you have a soft spot for sweet, luscious spreads bursting with natural fruit flavor, you are in for a real treat with this Homemade Fig Jam Recipe. It captures the rich, honeyed essence of fresh figs, delicately balanced with just a hint of citrus and vanilla to create a jam that’s wonderfully thick and satisfyingly chunky. Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or just starting out, this recipe offers a simple way to transform fresh figs into a versatile spread that brightens breakfasts, snacks, and even savory dishes with its unique, fruity charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this jam plays a key role, enhancing the final taste and texture without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the figs. These essentials are simple and easy to find, making it a joyful, no-fuss cooking experience from start to finish.
- 1 lb. figs (fresh*): The star of the show, packed with natural sweetness and a beautiful color that will shine through in your jam.
- ¼ cup water: Helps blend and simmer the figs gently to the perfect consistency.
- ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup): Adds a rich, floral sweetness that complements the figs perfectly.
- ¼ cup coconut sugar (or regular sugar): Balances the fruit’s natural sugars and helps with preservation and texture.
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice: Adds just the right amount of brightness to enhance flavor and preserve the jam’s vibrant color.
- Pinch of salt: Elevates the sweetness by rounding out all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tsp. vanilla: Introduces a warm, fragrant note that makes the jam feel extra special and comforting.
How to Make Homemade Fig Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Puree the Figs
Start by washing the fresh figs thoroughly and trimming off the stems. This ensures the jam is free from any unwanted bits and keeps the taste pure. Then, place the figs in a food processor or a large Nutribullet cup along with the water. Pulse a few times, aiming for a mostly smooth texture with a few delightful chunks left to add personality to your jam.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients and Bring to a Boil
Transfer the pureed figs to a medium-sized skillet and add the honey, coconut sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together over medium-high heat, bringing the mixture to a boil. Keep stirring constantly during these initial moments to prevent sticking and to blend the flavors alike.
Step 3: Simmer to the Perfect Consistency
Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let the jam gently simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, it will reduce by about half, thickening up beautifully while intensifying those deep fig flavors. The simmering stage is where patience really pays off, as you watch the liquid evaporate, leaving behind a rich, jammy texture.
Step 4: Final Flavor Boost and Cool Down
In the last couple of minutes, add the vanilla and stir it in. That final touch of warmth and complexity from the vanilla brings this Homemade Fig Jam Recipe to a whole new level of deliciousness. Then, let your jam cool before transferring it to small mason jars for storage or serving right away.
How to Serve Homemade Fig Jam Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few fresh thyme leaves on top of your fig jam can add an intriguing burst of flavor, making each bite even more memorable. These simple garnishes enhance both the look and the taste, elevating your spread beyond ordinary.
Side Dishes
This jam pairs spectacularly with rustic breads, buttery biscuits, or gluten-free crackers topped with soft goat cheese. It brightens any cheese board or breakfast table by introducing subtle sweet fruitiness that complements savory, salty, or creamy accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving small ramekins of fig jam alongside charcuterie platters or dolloped onto pancakes or yogurt bowls. Using cute mini jars tied with twine also makes wonderful homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, your homemade fig jam keeps well in airtight mason jars stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Keeping it chilled maintains the fresh, bright flavors and prevents spoilage so you can savor this delicious treat bit by bit.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing fig jam is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Frozen fig jam will last up to 3 months and can be thawed in the refrigerator before use, retaining most of its delightful texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you want to give your fig jam a warm touch before serving, gently reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This helps loosen the texture and revives those fresh, fruity aromas without cooking it further or burning.
FAQs
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?
While fresh figs are ideal for this Homemade Fig Jam Recipe because of their moisture content and flavor, dried figs can be used if rehydrated first. Keep in mind, the texture and sweetness will be different, so adjustments to liquids and sugar might be necessary.
Is this jam suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Just swap the honey for maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener, and you’ll have a delicious vegan-friendly fig jam that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
How can I make the jam thicker?
If you prefer a thicker jam, simply extend the simmering time to allow more liquid to evaporate. Stir frequently to prevent burning and keep an eye on the texture so it doesn’t become too dry.
Can I use frozen figs?
Frozen figs can work in a pinch. Be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using to avoid a jam that’s too watery. The flavor will still be vibrant and wonderful.
Do I need to sterilize the jars?
It’s always best to sterilize jars before storing homemade jams to maximize shelf life and reduce the risk of spoilage. Simply wash them thoroughly, then boil or bake them before filling with your cooled jam.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Fig Jam Recipe is one of those rare, joyous kitchen projects that rewards you with pure delight every time you open the jar. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all by yourself, whether spread on toast or paired with cheeses. Trust me, once you try making this jam, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your pantry and your heart. Grab those figs, and let’s get cooking!
Print
Homemade Fig Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade fig jam recipe is a delightful way to preserve the natural sweetness of fresh figs. Combining fresh figs with honey, coconut sugar, and a hint of vanilla creates a luscious, spreadable jam perfect for toast, biscuits, or crackers. The jam is simmered gently on the stovetop until thickened, preserving the fresh flavor and texture of the fruit.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb. fresh figs
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup)
- ¼ cup coconut sugar (or regular sugar)
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Figs: Wash the fresh figs thoroughly and trim off the stems to prepare them for blending.
- Puree the Figs: Place the figs and ¼ cup water into a large Nutribullet cup or a large food processor. Pulse several times until the figs are mostly smooth but still contain some small chunks for texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the pureed figs to a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add honey, coconut sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to the skillet.
- Bring to a Boil: Stir the mixture constantly and bring it to a boil. Continue boiling for 2 minutes to help the sugars dissolve and slightly thicken the mixture.
- Simmer the Jam: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the fig mixture simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the figs have reduced by about half and the jam has thickened.
- Add Vanilla: In the last 1-2 minutes of simmering, stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse the jam with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Cool and Store: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the fig jam to cool. Once cooled, transfer the jam to smaller 4-ounce or 8-ounce mason jars for storage.
- Serve: Enjoy the fig jam spread on toast, biscuits, or gluten-free crackers paired with goat cheese for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Fresh figs are best used for this recipe, but if unavailable, frozen figs can work as a substitute.
- The jam can be sweetened with honey, maple syrup, or regular sugar based on your preference.
- Store the jam in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a smoother jam, blend the figs completely before cooking.
- This recipe yields approximately 16 servings, suitable for small jars and gifting.
