Go Back
For this recipe, you need 2 pounds of fresh figs. Choose ripe figs for the best flavor. Remove the stems and cut them into quarters. Ripe figs have a sweet smell and feel soft to the touch. If you can, pick them from a local tree. The fresher the figs, the better your preserves will taste. You will need 1 cup of granulated sugar. This sugar helps balance the fig's natural sweetness. It also aids in thickening the preserves. You can adjust the sugar if you like it sweeter or less sweet. Some people use honey or agave as alternatives, but sugar gives the best results here. To make your fig preserves pop, add flavor. Use 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for brightness. A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds depth. For warmth, include 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Finally, a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. These ingredients work together to create a rich and delicious taste in your preserves. For the full recipe, make sure to check the cooking steps. First, wash the figs gently. This step removes any dirt or bugs. Next, remove the stems and cut the figs into quarters. Quartering helps them cook evenly. Place the prepared figs in a large bowl, ready for cooking. In a large pot, mix 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Heat this mixture on medium heat. Stir it until the sugar fully dissolves. Once dissolved, add the quartered figs. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. When it boils, lower the heat to let it simmer. Stir the mixture often. This helps prevent sticking. Let it cook for about 45 minutes. After that time, add lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to blend all the flavors. Now, continue cooking for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. You want the mixture to thicken to a jam-like texture. To check if the preserves are ready, use a cold plate. Place a small spoonful of the mixture on the plate. Wait for a minute. If it holds its shape and does not spread much, your preserves are done. If not, keep cooking and test again. Once ready, remove the pot from heat. Let it cool slightly before transferring the preserves to clean, sterilized jars. Seal them tightly for storage. For the full recipe, check out Grandma’s Fig Preserves 🥳. When making fig preserves, start with ripe figs for the best flavor. Fresh figs are sweet and juicy. Wash them gently, and remove any stems. Use a large pot to give the figs space to cook. Stir the mixture often to avoid burning. Keep your heat low once it simmers. This slow cooking helps the figs break down well. To get the right texture, you need patience. After cooking for about 45 minutes, add lemon juice and vanilla. The lemon helps balance the sweetness. To check if your figs are ready, take a spoonful and place it on a cold plate. If it holds its shape, it’s perfect. If it’s runny, cook it a little longer. Sometimes, your fig preserves may turn out too thick or too thin. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water and heat gently. If it’s too thin, simmer longer until it thickens. If your figs are not sweet enough, mix in a little more sugar. Always taste as you go. This helps you adjust flavors while cooking. These tips will guide you to make Grandma’s fig preserves just right! For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. {{image_2}} You can add spices to your fig preserves for a warm twist. Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom. These spices bring a cozy flavor that makes the preserves special. Just mix in one teaspoon of your chosen spice when you add the lemon juice. This small change can take your preserves to the next level. Citrus fruits bring bright notes to fig preserves. You can use orange, lemon, or even grapefruit. Zest the fruit before juicing it. Add one tablespoon of zest and two tablespoons of juice during cooking. This method brightens up the flavor and adds a zing that balances the sweetness of the figs. Nuts add crunch and fun to your preserves. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work best. Chop them finely and mix them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This addition creates a delightful texture that contrasts with the smoothness of the figs. Remember to toast the nuts lightly for extra flavor before adding them. Explore these variations to make Grandma's Fig Preserves even more exciting! For the full recipe, check the earlier section. To store your fig preserves, you can can them. Start with clean jars and lids. After cooking, pour the hot fig mixture into the jars. Leave about half an inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims to remove any spills. Seal the jars tightly with the lids. Process them in a water bath canner for about 10 minutes. This method keeps your preserves safe for a long time. Always check the seals after cooling. If a lid pops back, it’s not sealed. When stored properly in a cool, dark place, fig preserves can last for up to one year. Once opened, store the jar in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about three weeks. Always check for any signs of spoilage, like mold or off smells. If you see or smell anything strange, it's best to throw it out. If you want to save some fig preserves for later, freezing is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space for expansion as the preserves freeze. They can last for about six months in the freezer. To use them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. This method works well and keeps the flavor intact. You can still enjoy Grandma’s fig preserves even months later! For the full recipe, check the recipe section above. To check if your fig preserves are done, use a cold plate. Place a small spoonful of the preserves on the plate. Wait one minute. If it holds its shape and doesn’t spread much, it’s ready. This means the mixture has thickened well. Make sure to test it about five minutes before you plan to jar them. Fig preserves are very versatile. You can spread them on toast or biscuits for breakfast. They work great on cheese boards. Use them as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. They also add flavor to meat dishes like pork or chicken. The sweet taste pairs well with many foods. If you don’t have fresh figs, dried figs are a good option. Just soak them in water for a few hours. You can also use other fruits like peaches or plums. Keep in mind that these fruits will change the flavor. Adjust the sugar in the recipe based on the fruit's sweetness. Homemade fig preserves can last up to a year when stored correctly. Use sterilized jars to keep them fresh. Once opened, keep them in the fridge. They should last for about three months once opened. Always check for signs of spoilage before using. You can reduce the sugar, but the flavor may change. Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that the preserves might not thicken as well. You can also use sugar substitutes, but follow the package instructions for amounts. Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough pot. The cooking time may be a bit longer, so keep an eye on the mixture. Always test for doneness before jarring. If your fig preserves are too runny, you can cook them longer. Return them to the heat and simmer for a bit more time. This will help thicken the mixture. You can also add a bit of pectin if needed. Just follow the package instructions for best results. Yes, you can use frozen figs. Just thaw them and drain any extra water before cooking. The texture might be softer than fresh figs, but they will still taste great. Make sure to adjust the sugar based on their sweetness. Fig preserves can be a healthy option. They are rich in fiber and antioxidants. However, they do contain sugar, so enjoy them in moderation. Pairing them with whole grains can boost their health benefits. We covered how to make delicious fig preserves. Starting with fresh figs, we explored sweeteners and flavor options. I detailed the steps for preparing and cooking your preserves. I also shared tips for the best cooking practices and how to ensure your preserves have the right texture. You can try exciting variations, like spiced or citrus-infused versions. Finally, I provided storage methods and answered common questions. Now, with these insights, you're ready to create your own tasty fig preserves! Enjoy your cooking!

Grandma’s Fig Preserves

Dive into the sweet and nostalgic world of Grandma’s Fig Preserves! This easy recipe combines fresh figs with simple ingredients to create a delicious treat perfect for spreading on bread or topping desserts. Discover how to make your batch in just over an hour, and impress your family with this delightful homemade jam.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 pounds fresh figs, stems removed and quartered

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup water

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

In a large pot, combine the water and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

    Add the quartered figs to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

      Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

        After 45 minutes, add the lemon juice, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the pot. Stir well to combine.

          Continue to simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency.

            To test for doneness, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it holds its shape and doesn't spread too much, it’s ready to jar.

              Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring the preserves to sterilized jars. Seal tightly.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: About 4 cups

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the fig preserves in small mason jars tied with twine for a rustic touch, or use as a delightful topping on artisanal bread or pastries for a charming breakfast spread.