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Easy Small Batch Fig Jam Recipe with Lemon and Vanilla Perfect for Beginners

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A simple and quick small batch fig jam with fresh figs, lemon, and vanilla that captures fresh fruit flavor in a manageable way. Perfect for cozy mornings, last-minute gifts, or kitchen experiments.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 small vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Rinse the figs gently and pat dry. Remove the stems and chop the figs into small pieces, roughly 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) chunks.
  2. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the chopped figs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla bean seeds and pod, and water. Stir gently to combine evenly.
  3. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to macerate.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for about 25-30 minutes until thickened to a jam-like consistency.
  5. Test the set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and letting it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger and doesn’t flood back together, it is set. If not, simmer a few minutes longer and test again.
  6. Remove the vanilla bean pod and let the jam cool slightly in the pan. Transfer to clean glass jar(s).
  7. Let the jam cool completely before sealing the jar. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks.

Notes

Use ripe but firm figs to avoid mushy jam. Stir frequently and keep heat moderate to prevent burning. Test jam set with chilled plate. Vanilla bean adds best flavor but vanilla extract can be substituted. Store refrigerated and consume within 2-3 weeks. For thicker jam, reheat gently before use. Variations include adding cinnamon, cardamom, or mixing in other berries.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, small batch jam, homemade jam, lemon, vanilla, easy jam recipe, beginner jam recipe, fruit jam, breakfast spread