This easy homemade fig jam is made with dried figs, sugar, and lemon juice. It’s sweet, fruity, and perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried Figs: The star of this jam! Use high-quality dried figs for the best flavor. If you’re short on figs, you can mix in other dried fruits like apricots or prunes for a unique twist.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works well, but feel free to swap it out for honey or maple syrup if you prefer a more natural sweetener. Just adjust the amount to taste since they can vary in sweetness.
Lemon Juice: This adds needed acidity to balance the sweetness. If you’re out of fresh lemon juice, use bottled lemon juice or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for a different flavor dimension.
Vanilla Extract & Cinnamon: These are optional but bring warmth and depth to the jam. If you love spice, try adding a hint of nutmeg or allspice instead!
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Jam?
Getting the texture just right can be tricky! Here’s how to achieve it:
- First, make sure to simmer the dried figs long enough to soften them fully. This is key to a smooth texture.
- When mashing or blending, start with a few quick pulses. You can always blend more if you prefer a smoother consistency.
- As the mixture cooks with sugar and lemon juice, it will naturally thicken. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently to avoid burning.
- The jam will thicken more as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s slightly runny when hot. Test by spooning some onto a cold plate; if it holds its shape as it cools, you’re good to go!
These tips will help you create a delicious homemade fig jam with the perfect texture every time!
Easy Homemade Fig Jam Using Dried Figs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups dried figs, chopped
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy fig jam recipe will take about 40-50 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes preparing and simmering the figs, followed by about 25 minutes for cooking and thickening the jam. After that, just let it cool down before transferring it to jars for storage!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Figs:
Start by placing the chopped dried figs and water in a medium saucepan. Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help the figs soften as they absorb the water.
2. Simmer Until Soft:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the figs to become very soft so they mash easily.
3. Mash the Fig Mixture:
After the figs are soft, grab a potato masher or an immersion blender, and mash or blend the mixture until you reach your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your preference!
4. Sweeten the Mixture:
Add the granulated sugar and lemon juice to the saucepan. Stir well to make sure everything is combined. The sugar will dissolve and sweeten the jam.
5. Cook Until Thickened:
Continue to cook the mixture over medium-low heat for about 15-25 minutes. Stir frequently until the jam thickens to your liking. Remember, it will thicken a bit more as it cools!
6. Add Flavoring (Optional):
If you’re using vanilla extract or cinnamon, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a lovely touch of flavor to your fig jam.
7. Cool and Store:
Once the jam is done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. After a few minutes, transfer the jam to sterilized jars. Allow it to cool completely before sealing the jars and refrigerating.
8. Enjoy Your Homemade Fig Jam!
Your fig jam will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy it on toast, with cheese and crackers, or as a delicious topping for desserts. Happy spreading!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Dried Fruits Instead of Figs?
Absolutely! While this recipe is specifically for fig jam, you can easily substitute with other dried fruits like apricots, prunes, or dates. Just keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness may vary, so you might need to adjust the sugar amount accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftover Fig Jam?
Store any leftover fig jam in airtight containers or sterilized jars in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the jam in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months!
Is It Possible to Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam. Start by cutting the sugar by half and taste-testing as you cook. Just keep in mind that sugar also acts as a preservative, so reducing it may affect the shelf life of the jam.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Fig Jam?
Fig jam is versatile! It’s delicious on toast or scones, paired with cheese (especially goat cheese), or used as a topping for desserts like yogurt, ice cream, or cheesecake. You can also use it in baking to enhance flavors in cakes and cookies!
