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Homemade Sweet Vanilla Fig Jam with Honey and Lemon Zest

homemade sweet vanilla fig jam - featured image
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A luscious, fragrant fig jam infused with vanilla, honey, and lemon zest that balances natural sweetness with bright citrus notes. Perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • ½ cup (120 ml) honey, preferably raw or wildflower
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Rinse the figs gently under cool water and pat dry. Remove the stems and roughly chop the figs into quarters or sixths depending on size, yielding about 4 cups (600 grams) of chopped fruit.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped figs, honey, granulated sugar (if using), water, lemon zest, and vanilla seeds or extract. Stir gently to mix.
  3. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 30-40 minutes until thickened and figs break down.
  4. Stir in fresh lemon juice about 10 minutes before finishing cooking.
  5. Test the jam set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s ready. Alternatively, use a candy thermometer to check for 220°F (104°C).
  6. Remove from heat and let the jam cool slightly before spooning into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) headspace. Seal and let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.

Notes

Keep heat low to maintain a gentle simmer and stir frequently to prevent burning. Use fresh lemon zest and juice for brightness. Test jam set early as it thickens further when cooled. Sterilize jars before filling. Variations include adding spices like cinnamon or cloves, using dried figs (soaked), or substituting honey with maple syrup for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, homemade jam, vanilla fig jam, honey fig jam, lemon zest jam, fruit spread, easy jam recipe

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/homemade-sweet-vanilla-fig-jam-with-honey-and-lemon-zest-recipe/