These fig preserves are sweet, simple, and simply delightful! Made with fresh figs, sugar, and a splash of lemon, they bring out the best of those juicy fruits.
Making these brings back fond memories of Grammy in the kitchen. Spread them on toast or yogurt for a yummy treat. Who doesn’t love a spoonful of sweet nostalgia? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Figs: These are the star of the show! Choose ripe, soft figs for the best flavor. If figs aren’t in season, you can use dried figs, but reduce the sugar slightly since they’re sweeter.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is traditional for preserves, but you can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Just keep in mind it may alter the color slightly.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice will work too. Just make sure to use one that doesn’t have additives.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional, but I love it for extra flavor. If you need an alternative, you can use almond extract for a different twist, but use only half the amount as it’s stronger.
How Do I Know When My Fig Preserves Are Ready?
Checking for doneness in preserves is crucial. You want them to be thick enough for spreading but not burnt. Here’s a straightforward way to test them:
- Spoon a small amount onto a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. This mimics the temperature and thickness when stored.
- Run your finger through the cooled spoonful. If it holds its shape and wrinkles, it’s ready!
- If it’s still too runny, continue cooking and check every 5 minutes until it thickens.
Grammy’s Easy and Delicious Fig Preserves
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Preserves:
- 4 cups fresh figs, stemmed and quartered
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus 45-60 minutes of cooking time. Allow a bit of extra time for cooling and storing. In total, you can expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours to make these delicious fig preserves.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Figs:
Start by washing the fresh figs thoroughly to remove any dirt. Once clean, remove the stems and cut the figs into quarters. This will help them break down and release their juices while cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large saucepan, combine the quartered figs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and water. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together. Let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes. This resting time helps the figs release their juicy goodness and start softening.
3. Cook the Mixture:
Next, place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently to help dissolve the sugar. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer for Thickness:
Let it simmer on low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll see the mixture thicken and the figs become soft, almost jam-like. This is where all the delicious flavor develops!
5. (Optional) Add Vanilla:
If you like, stir in the vanilla extract during the last 5 minutes of cooking. It gives the preserves an extra layer of flavor that really complements the figs.
6. Check for Doneness:
To see if the preserves are ready, take a small spoonful and drop it onto a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute. When you push it with your finger, if it wrinkles, it’s done!
7. Jar the Preserves:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully ladle the hot fig preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Be cautious as the mixture will be very hot!
8. Cool and Seal:
Seal the jars with lids and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, store them in the refrigerator for immediate use.
9. Long-Term Storage:
If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step keeps them safe to enjoy later.
10. Enjoy!
Your fig preserves are now ready to be relished! Spread them on toast, biscuits, or use them as a topping for desserts. Enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade treat!
Can I Use Frozen Figs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen figs! Just make sure to thaw them completely before using them in the recipe. Drain any excess liquid that may have accumulated while thawing, as you want to maintain the right balance of sugar and moisture in the preserves.
How Do I Store Fig Preserves?
Store your fig preserves in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. If you decide to can them, enjoy them shelf-stable for up to a year as long as the jars are sealed properly. Once opened, keep them in the fridge and consume within a month.
Can I Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative and contributes to the thickness of the preserves. Try reducing it by 1/2 cup at first and adjust to taste. You may end up with a softer texture, so monitor the cooking time closely.
What Else Can I Do with Fig Preserves?
Fig preserves are incredibly versatile! Use them as a topping for yogurt, on cheese platters, or in baked goods like cakes and pastries. You can also incorporate them into savory dishes for a sweet contrast, such as glazes for poultry or pork. Enjoy getting creative!
