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Easy Small Batch Homemade Fig Jam Recipe with Lemon and Vanilla for Perfect Breakfast Spread

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This easy small batch homemade fig jam with lemon and vanilla is a thick, sticky spread bursting with fresh fruit flavor and a bright, warm note. Perfect for breakfast or as a versatile accompaniment to cheeses and snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh figs, washed and quartered
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Zest of one lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or seeds from half a vanilla bean pod
  • ¼ cup (60ml) water
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 1 pound (450g) of fresh figs and pat dry. Quarter each fig to help them break down evenly in the pan (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a medium saucepan, add the quartered figs, ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar, ¼ cup (60ml) water, 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon. Stir gently to mix everything together.
  3. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the pan, then toss in the pod too. For vanilla extract, add 1 teaspoon now.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the figs soften and the liquid thickens to a jammy consistency.
  5. Test the jam by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and tilting it. If it holds its shape without running, it’s done. Remove the vanilla pod if used.
  6. Let the jam cool completely in the pan, then transfer it to a clean jar or container. Store in the refrigerator and consume within two weeks.

Notes

Use ripe figs for best sweetness and texture. Stir gently to keep some fig chunks for texture. Use fresh lemon juice for brightness. Vanilla bean adds flecks and aroma but extract works fine. Sterilize jars for longer storage. Jam can be frozen in freezer-safe containers with headspace. Reheat gently before serving if firmed up.

Nutrition

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