Go Back
To make classic fig jam, you need fresh figs. Choose ripe figs for the best taste. Look for figs that feel soft to the touch. Their color should be deep and rich. You will need about 2 pounds of fresh figs. Remove the stems and chop them into quarters. This helps them cook down faster. Sugar is the key to sweet fig jam. Granulated sugar works best in this recipe. You will need 2 cups of sugar. It balances the natural sweetness of the figs. You can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. This adds a hint of caramel. To elevate your jam, add some flavorings. Squeeze in 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice. It brightens the taste and helps with preservation. A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract adds warmth. For a hint of spice, include 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices create a cozy, inviting taste. For the full recipe, refer to the section above. Enjoy making your fig jam! Start by washing the figs under cool water. Remove the stems and chop the figs into quarters. This helps them cook evenly. Place them in a large pot. Add the sugar and lemon juice to the pot with the figs. Stir gently to mix everything. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. This resting time helps the figs release their juices. You will see a syrup forming at the bottom. After the figs have rested, place the pot over medium heat. Stir the mixture often until the sugar dissolves fully. Once the sugar is gone, turn the heat to medium-high. Let the mixture come to a rolling boil. Stir frequently to keep it from sticking. When it boils, reduce the heat to medium. Let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep stirring often as it cooks. The jam will thicken and coat the back of a spoon. To check if your jam is ready, take a spoonful and place it on a chilled plate. Run your finger through the jam. If it holds its shape and does not run, it is ready. If it is too runny, let it cook a bit longer. Once you achieve the right thickness, stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let it cook for 5 more minutes to blend those flavors. After that, you can jar the jam. Check out the Full Recipe for more details. Choose ripe figs for the best flavor. Look for figs that are soft but not mushy. Their color should be vibrant, often purple or green, depending on the variety. Feel free to experiment with different types of figs. Some may be sweeter, while others can add a unique taste to your jam. To get the right jam thickness, watch the cooking time closely. Stir the mixture often while it simmers. It should thicken after about 30-40 minutes of cooking. Use the chilled plate test to check. Place a spoonful on the plate, and run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it's ready to jar. Avoid using under-ripe figs, as they may not have enough natural sugar. Don’t skip the resting time before cooking. This step helps release juices and enhances flavor. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning. Last, remember to use clean jars for storage. This keeps your jam safe and tasty. For the full recipe, check out the Heavenly Fig Jam section above! {{image_4}} You can mix flavors to make your fig jam unique. Add orange zest for a bright twist. A splash of bourbon gives a warm, rich taste. For a hint of tartness, mix in some chopped cranberries. You can also use fresh herbs like rosemary for a fresh touch. These combinations create layers of flavor and keep things exciting. Dried figs work well if fresh ones are hard to find. Start with 1 pound of dried figs. Chop them into small pieces. You may need to add more water to create a syrupy base. Soak the dried figs in warm water for 30 minutes before cooking. This way, they become softer and juicier. Follow the same steps as in the Full Recipe for cooking. Spices can elevate your fig jam to a new level. Try adding ginger for a spicy kick. Cardamom gives a warm, sweet flavor that pairs well with figs. You can also sprinkle in some allspice for a cozy touch. Start with a small amount of each spice. Taste as you go to find the right balance. These spices can transform your jam into something truly special. Store your fig jam in clean, dry jars. After making the jam, fill each jar while it's hot. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Once filled, seal the jars tightly. Let them cool to room temperature. Then, place them in the fridge. This keeps your jam fresh and tasty. Homemade fig jam lasts about one month in the fridge. If you keep it sealed and stored well, it may last a bit longer. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or off smells, throw it away. When stored properly, the jam can also stay good for up to a year in the freezer. Freezing fig jam is a great way to keep it fresh. Use freezer-safe jars or plastic containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Label each container with the date. When you want to use it, thaw the jam in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice and smooth. For the best taste, use thawed jam within three months. Check out the Full Recipe for more details. You can use fig jam in many tasty ways. Spread it on toast for breakfast. Add it to a cheese board for snacks. You can also mix it into yogurt or oatmeal. Fig jam pairs well with meats, like pork or duck. Use it as a filling for cakes or pastries. The sweet and rich taste enhances many dishes. Yes, you can can classic fig jam to keep it fresh. Start by washing jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Then, sterilize them by boiling for 10 minutes. Pour the hot jam into the jars, leaving 1/4 inch of space. Seal the jars tightly and process them in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes. This method helps the jam last longer. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Figs are packed with health benefits. They are high in fiber, which helps digestion. Figs also have antioxidants that fight free radicals. They can help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. Plus, figs contain vitamins and minerals like potassium and calcium. Eating figs can support overall health, making them a smart choice in your diet. In this post, we explored the world of fig jam. We covered ingredients, including fresh figs, sugar options, and flavorings. You learned how to prepare figs, cook the mixture, and check for the right consistency. Tips included choosing figs and avoiding common mistakes. We also shared fun variations and storage tips for your jam. I hope you feel inspired to make your own fig jam. Enjoy the process and the tasty results!

Classic Fig Jam

Create a jar of heavenly fig jam with this easy recipe! Using fresh figs, sugar, lemon juice, and a dash of spices, you’ll craft a deliciously thick jam perfect for spreading on toast or adding to cheese boards. Follow our step-by-step instructions to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor infusion. Click to explore this delightful recipe and elevate your breakfast or snack game today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 pounds fresh figs, stems removed and chopped into quarters

2 cups granulated sugar

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions
 

In a large non-reactive pot, combine the chopped figs, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently to mix and then let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the figs to release their natural juices and creates a syrupy base.

    After the resting period, place the pot over medium heat. Stir the mixture occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves.

      Once the sugar is dissolved, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

        Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer. Continue stirring often for about 30-40 minutes, or until the jam thickens to your desired consistency. You want it to coat the back of a spoon nicely.

          After achieving the right thickness, stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 5 minutes to blend in the flavors.

            To check the consistency of your jam, place a spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it; if it holds its shape without running, it’s ready to be jarred.

              Carefully pour the hot fig jam into pre-sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar to allow for expansion as it cools.

                Seal the jars tightly with their lids and let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator for storage.

                  Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: Approximately 6 half-pint jars

                    - Presentation Tips: For a charming presentation, serve the fig jam in small glass jars adorned with a rustic twine bow tied around the top. This delightful jam pairs wonderfully with toasted bread or can enhance cheese platters with its rich flavors. Enjoy!