How to Make Fig Jam
This old-fashioned fig jam recipe brings nostalgia right into your modern kitchen – no canning, no pectin, just pure simplicity. With just three ingredients (figs, sugar, and lemon juice), you’ll create something truly special with minimal effort.
Why Mission Figs Make the Perfect Jam
Mission figs create a jam with remarkable depth and character. Their deep purple skin and ruby flesh transform into a velvety spread that works beautifully for both everyday breakfasts and special occasions.
Perfect Pairings: From Breakfast to Entertaining
This jam is incredibly versatile:
- Perfect on toast or scones
- Pairs wonderfully with brie or goat cheese
- Shines on any charcuterie board
- Works as a glaze for meats
Quick Tips for Success
The process is straightforward – simply cook down the figs with sugar , a dash of water, and lemon juice until thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and test for doneness by seeing if it coats the back of a spoon.
Delicious Variations to Try
Customize your fig jam with these simple additions:
- Add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for depth
- Include vanilla bean or cinnamon stick while cooking
- Try orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note
- Infuse with rosemary or thyme for a savory-sweet profile
- Mix in chopped walnuts or pistachios for texture
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
- Add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for depth
- Include vanilla bean or cinnamon stick while cooking
- Try orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note
- Infuse with rosemary or thyme for a savory-sweet profile
- Mix in chopped walnuts or pistachios for texture
Refrigerator Storage: This jam will keep in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to use clean utensils each time you scoop some out to maximize freshness.
Freezing Option: Yes, this jam freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe containers with 1/2 inch headspace for expansion. It will maintain quality for up to 6 months frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Important Note: This recipe is designed for refrigeration or freezing only. It has not been developed or tested for water bath canning or long-term shelf storage. For safety, always keep this jam refrigerated or frozen.
No Special Equipment Required
You only need basic kitchen tools – a pot, a wooden spoon, and some clean jars. The jam keeps well in the refrigerator for several weeks.
So when mission figs are in season, grab a few pounds and transform them into this easy homemade preserve that connects you to time-honored traditions while impressing family and friends.
Yield: 3 half pint jars
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Mission fig jam: a simple, sweet spread that transforms everyday breakfast into moments of pure joy.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds mission figs, stemmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
Add figs lemon juice, water to a medium pot.
Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Simmer, stirring occassionally, about 20 minutes, or until jam has reached a good consistency. Add water as needed, a tablespoon at a time.
Let cool to room temperature and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 60 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 31Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1mgCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 0gSugar: 7gProtein: 0g
All information and tools presented and written within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information should only be used as a general guideline.