These fig preserves are sweet, sticky, and simply delightful! Made with fresh figs and just a few simple ingredients, they are perfect for topping toast or pancakes.
Making these preserves reminds me of my grandma in the kitchen, always humming a tune. They’re so good, you’ll want to make extra to share—or keep all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Figs: Ripe figs are the star of this recipe. Their natural sweetness and unique flavor shine through. If fresh figs are out of season, use dried figs instead—just soak them in water to rehydrate before cooking.
Granulated Sugar: This ingredient helps preserve the figs and add sweetness. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, consider using honey or maple syrup as natural alternatives. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but it’s best to stick to fresh when possible for the best taste.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional, but I love adding a hint of vanilla for warmth. You can skip it if you prefer a more traditional fig flavor, or try almond extract for a different twist.
Ground Cinnamon: Another optional addition, cinnamon pairs wonderfully with figs. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out or even experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger.
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Fig Preserves?
Getting fig preserves to the perfect jam-like consistency is crucial. Here’s how to make sure they don’t turn out too runny or too thick:
- After combining the ingredients, letting the mixture macerate lets the figs release moisture—this is essential!
- While simmering, keep the heat low. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and check the consistency as it cooks.
- To test, using a chilled plate is the best method. If the dollop of preserves wrinkles when pushed, they’re ready!
Don’t worry if it takes a little longer or if the texture seems off initially; the preserves will thicken as they cool, so it’s essential to give them time!
Grammy’s Easy Homemade Fig Preserves
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh ripe figs (about 1.5 pounds), stemmed and quartered
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade fig preserves recipe will take about 1 hour for prep and cooking, plus 30 minutes to let the fig mixture sit before cooking. In total, you will spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Figs:
Start by washing the fresh figs under cool water. Stem them by removing the hard tops, then slice the figs into quarters. This helps them release their juices while cooking!
2. Mix Ingredients:
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the quartered figs, sugar, fresh lemon juice, and water. Stir everything gently to combine. Let this mixture sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is called macerating, and it helps draw out the natural juices of the figs—yum!
3. Cooking Time!
After 30 minutes, place your saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to make sure the sugar dissolves completely. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Keep stirring frequently to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You’ll need to simmer it for about 45-60 minutes until it thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency.
4. Check for Doneness:
To know when the preserves are ready, drop a small spoonful onto a chilled plate and let it cool for a moment. If it wrinkles when you gently push it with your finger, you’re good to go! If it’s still runny, let it simmer for a little longer.
5. Final Touches:
If you want that extra flavor, stir in the optional vanilla extract and ground cinnamon during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will enhance the sweetness and aroma!
6. Jarring Your Preserves:
Once the fig preserves have thickened, remove them from the heat and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer the preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Seal with lids.
7. Cool and Store:
Allow the filled jars to cool completely at room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. These delicious fig preserves should stay fresh for several weeks!
8. Enjoy:
Spread your homemade fig preserves on toast, biscuits, or share them with cheese for a delightful treat. Enjoy the fruit of your labor, just like Grammy used to make!
*Note*: This recipe will yield about 2 cups of fig preserves. Feel free to adjust sugar and lemon juice to suit your taste!
FAQ for Grammy’s Easy Homemade Fig Preserves
Can I Use Different Types of Figs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh ripe figs are ideal, you can use any variety you have on hand, such as black, green, or brown figs. Just make sure they are ripe for the best flavor. If using dried figs, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes before chopping and cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of My Fig Preserves?
If you prefer a less sweet preserve, feel free to reduce the sugar by about 1/2 cup or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. Keep in mind that reducing sugar may change the consistency and shelf-life of the preserves.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fig Preserves?
Store your fig preserves in sealed, sterilized jars in the refrigerator. They should last for about 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, consider canning them using proper techniques, which will allow them to sit in a cool, dark place for up to a year!
Can I Make These Preserves in Smaller Batches?
Yes! You can easily halve or quarter the recipe to make smaller batches. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary, and always check the doneness to get that perfect jam-like consistency!
