The Best Homemade Fig Jam Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade fig jam recipe is a delightful way to add a touch of sweetness to your day. It’s simple, versatile, and bursting with natural flavors.
- It’s made with just four ingredients, making it easy to whip up anytime.
- The rich, velvety texture pairs perfectly with toast, cheese, or even desserts.
- You’ll love how the caramelized figs create a unique, comforting taste that store-bought jams can’t match.
Recipe

Homemade fig jam is a delightful preserve that captures the natural sweetness and rich flavor of fresh figs. It’s simple to make and perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or using as a topping for desserts.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh figs, stemmed and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
- Combine the chopped figs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a large pot.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the jam thickens and reaches your desired consistency.
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it gels and doesn’t run, it’s done.
- Remove from heat and let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars.
Notes:
- Store the jam in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your figs.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized jars
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Makes approximately 2 cups of jam.
Nutrition
Fig jam is a delicious spread made primarily from fresh figs and sugar. It’s packed with natural sweetness and nutrients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 49 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 1mg |
| Total Carbs | 12g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 0g |
What To Serve With It
I love spreading my homemade fig jam on warm toast for a quick breakfast, or pairing it with sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a fancy snack. It’s also perfect on crackers with a slice of cheese for a simple appetizer. Whether you’re enjoying it in the morning or as part of a charcuterie board, it’s always a hit.
Cheese Pairings
Even though fig jam is sweet and rich on its own, I’ve found that pairing it with cheese takes it to a whole new level. Creamy brie is my go-to—the tangy, buttery flavor balances the jam’s sweetness perfectly. For something sharper, try aged cheddar; the contrast is downright addictive. Goat cheese works wonders too, its slight tartness playing off the jam’s fruity notes. If you’re feeling fancy, a slice of blue cheese with fig jam on a cracker is a game-changer. Trust me, once you try these combos, you’ll never eat fig jam solo again.
Morning Toast Ideas
When you’re looking to jazz up your breakfast, fig jam on toast is a delicious place to start, and there’s no shortage of ways to make it extra special. I love spreading it over warm, crusty sourdough with a dollop of creamy ricotta—it’s like a sweet, tangy hug for your taste buds. For crunch, sprinkle toasted walnuts or almonds on top. If you’re feeling fancy, add a drizzle of honey or a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness. And don’t forget a side of fresh fruit or a soft-boiled egg to round out the meal. Simple, satisfying, and oh-so-good!