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fig jam recipe

The Ultimate Easy Fig Jam Recipe

This easy fig jam recipe feels gourmet but is incredibly simple to make at home. With just figs, sugar, lemon juice, and water, you’ll create a smooth, rich, naturally sweet spread perfect for toast, cheese boards, or savory dishes. No pectin or fancy tools required!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Calories: 71
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Jam Base
  • 2 pounds fresh figs Black Mission, Brown Turkey, or Adriatic preferred
  • 1 cup sugar white or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 0.25 cup water add more as needed

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Rinse the figs under cold water. Trim the stems and chop the figs into small pieces.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the chopped figs with sugar. Let them sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes to draw out juices.
  3. Step 3: Transfer the fig mixture to a saucepan. Add lemon juice and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  4. Step 4: Lower heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring often until thickened.
  5. Step 5: Test for doneness using the cold plate method or a thermometer (220°F / 105°C).
  6. Step 6: For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender. For chunkier jam, mash with a potato masher.
  7. Step 7: Let jam cool before storing in clean jars or follow canning instructions for long-term storage.

Notes

Try flavor variations like cinnamon, vanilla bean, star anise, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Avoid boozy additions like sherry or brandy and instead use vanilla or herbal twists for depth. For year-round jam, substitute dried figs: 1 cup dried figs, ½ cup water, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice. Simmer 20–30 min, then mash or blend. Store refrigerated and use within 2 weeks.