Lemon Fig Jam (No Pectin) – Bright, Naturally Sweet, & Homemade Goodness
Imagine a spread that marries sun-ripened figs’ rich, honeyed sweetness with a burst of fresh lemon tang—all without a single commercial thickener. This no-pectin jam celebrates simple ingredients and slow simmering to achieve a luscious yet rustic texture speckled with tiny fig seeds. Whether you’re slathering it on warm toast at breakfast, pairing it with creamy cheese on a charcuterie board, or dolloping it into your yogurt, this vibrant jam brings a touch of gourmet flair to any meal. Plus, it makes the most charming homemade gift!
✨ Why You’ll Love It:
- Naturally sweet with a citrusy zing
- No added pectin required — figs provide natural thickening
- Perfect on toast, biscuits, yogurt, or cheese boards
- Stores beautifully and makes a lovely homemade gift
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Yields: ~2.5 cups
Ingredients
1 lb fresh figs (about 3 cups, chopped) — Black Mission or green figs work well
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 tbsp lemon zest
3/4–1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup water
Optional: 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the figs:
Rinse figs and remove stems. Chop into small pieces (you can mash slightly if you like a smoother texture). - Combine ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine chopped figs, lemon juice, zest, water, and sugar. Stir gently to mix. - Simmer:
Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir often to avoid sticking.
Cook until thickened:
Simmer for 40–50 minutes, or until the mixture is jammy and thick. Stir occasionally, and mash figs more if needed.
Test the jam:
To test for doneness, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. If it wrinkles slightly when pushed, it’s ready. If too thin, cook a few minutes more.
Optional flavor boost:
Stir in vanilla or cinnamon once removed from heat.
Cool and store:
Let the jam cool slightly, then spoon into clean jars. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or process in a water bath for long-term canning.
️ Serving Ideas
- Spread on warm toast, pancakes, or waffles
- Spoon onto yogurt or oatmeal
- Pair with cheese and crackers
- Swirl into cake batter or thumbprint cookies
Nutrition (per tablespoon, approx.)
- Calories: ~30
- Sugar: 7g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 0.5g