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Easy Small Batch Fig Jam Recipe with Vanilla Bean and Lemon

easy small batch fig jam - featured image

A beginner-friendly, small batch fig jam combining fresh figs, lemon, and vanilla bean for a sweet, tangy, and lightly floral spread perfect for toast, yogurt, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract as substitute)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • Optional: pinch of sea salt
  • Optional: dash of cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Wash and gently pat dry 1 pound (450 g) of fresh figs. Trim the stems and roughly chop into 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) pieces.
  2. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with the back of a knife. Set seeds and pod aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped figs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla seeds and pod, and water. Stir gently to mix.
  4. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring every few minutes as the figs soften and mixture thickens, about 30-40 minutes.
  6. Test jam consistency by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and doesn’t run quickly, it’s done.
  7. Remove and discard the vanilla pod.
  8. Pour hot jam into clean, warm jars. Let cool to room temperature before sealing.
  9. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2 weeks for best flavor.

Notes

Do not rush the simmer to avoid burning; stir frequently. Use ripe but firm figs for best texture. Vanilla bean seeds add natural flavor and pretty specks. Test jam doneness with chilled plate test. For chunkier jam, mash figs during simmering; for smooth jam, strain or blend briefly. Store refrigerated up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, small batch jam, vanilla bean jam, lemon fig jam, homemade jam, beginner jam recipe, gluten-free jam, vegan jam