How to Make Delicious Vanilla Fig Jam at Home

If you’ve never tried vanilla fig jam, you’re in for a treat! It’s the perfect blend of natural sweetness from ripe figs and the comforting warmth of vanilla. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or simply enjoying it by the spoonful, this jam brings a little extra magic to your kitchen.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to make vanilla fig jam, why figs are a wonderful fruit to work with, and how you can incorporate this jam into various dishes. By the end, you’ll be ready to create your own batch of this dreamy, sweet spread.

What Makes Vanilla Fig Jam So Special?

The combination of figs and vanilla is a match made in heaven. Figs, with their natural sweetness and slightly chewy texture, make for an excellent base for jams and preserves. Vanilla adds a warm depth of flavor that elevates the figs’ sweetness. Together, they create a jam that’s perfect for a wide range of uses.

But beyond the flavor, vanilla fig jam is also incredibly versatile. It pairs well with cheeses like brie or ricotta, adds sweetness to yogurt or oatmeal, and works as a delicious topping for cakes and pastries. It’s a jam that can easily transform an everyday snack into something special.

Ingredients for Vanilla Fig Jam

The beauty of vanilla fig jam is that it requires just a few simple ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to make your own batch:

• 1 lb. Figs; stems removed, washed, and quartered
• 2 T. Fresh Lemon Juice
• ½ c. Honey, preferably local
• 1 t. Pure Vanilla Bean Extract

That’s it! A handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen or can easily pick up at your local grocery store.

Add some vanilla fig jam to these prosecco and charcuterie pairings!

How to Make Vanilla Fig Jam

Now that we have everything we need, let’s dive into the steps for making vanilla fig jam. Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds—just a little bit of patience, and you’ll have a homemade jam that’s perfect for spreading.

Prep time: 55 minutes (10 minutes active)

Cook time: 50-55 minutes

Serving: ½ pint

1. Prepare the Figs: Start by washing your figs and removing the stems. Since the skins of figs are edible, there’s no need to peel them. Just slice the figs into quarters or smaller pieces, depending on the size of the figs and how chunky you like your jam. In a large bowl, combine the prepped figs with the lemon juice and allow the figs to sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes.
2. Cook the Figs: Transfer the figs, along with the juice, to a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Add the honey and vanilla extract, stirring to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the figs break down into a thick and slightly granular jam, around 50-55 minutes. Mash the figs, if desired, for a smoother jam.
3. Cool and Store: Once the vanilla fig jam has reached your ideal consistency, remove it from the heat. Let it cool for a bit before transferring it to a clean jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Enjoy!

You can also make this jam in larger batches and can it for longer storage if you prefer, but that’s a bit more of a process. For now, we’ll keep things simple!

Tips for Making Vanilla Fig Jam

• Choose Ripe Figs: For the best flavor, it’s important to use ripe, fresh figs. They should be soft to the touch, but not overly mushy. If your figs are a little firm, they might not release as much juice, which can affect the consistency of your jam. Choose figs that are sweet and have a deep color to get the best flavor profile.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a key ingredient in vanilla fig jam. It helps balance the sweetness of the figs and prevents the jam from becoming too sugary. The acidity from the lemon also helps with the preservation, so don’t skip it, even if you’re tempted to add extra sugar. It’s a small but important step!
• Try an Immersion Blender for Smoother Jam: If you prefer a smoother jam, you can also use an immersion blender to blend it up. The choice is yours—whether you like your vanilla fig jam chunky or smooth, it’ll taste great either way.
• Use the Spoon Test: If you’re unsure if the vanilla fig jam is thick enough, try the spoon test: place a spoonful of jam on a plate and let it cool for a minute. If it holds its shape, it’s ready!

How to Enjoy Vanilla Fig Jam

Once your vanilla fig jam is ready, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delicious ideas for using your homemade jam:

• Toast: This is the simplest and most classic way to enjoy vanilla fig jam. Spread it generously over a warm slice of toast, and you’ll be hooked from the first bite. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
• Cheese: Pairing vanilla fig jam with cheese is a match made in heaven. The sweet, creamy jam balances the savory, tangy flavors of cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or ricotta cheese. Serve it at your next cheese board or enjoy it on a cracker for an elevated snack. Try it on this baked brie recipe!
• Yogurt or Oatmeal: If you love yogurt or oatmeal, a spoonful of vanilla fig jam adds a sweet, fruity kick. Stir it into your morning oatmeal or drizzle it over a bowl of yogurt for a quick, easy, and delicious breakfast.
• Desserts: You can use vanilla fig jam as a topping for cakes, cupcakes, or pastries. It also works wonderfully as a filling for cookies or tarts. The rich, sweet flavor complements a variety of desserts, making it a great addition.
• Glaze: If you’re making roasted meats, particularly pork or chicken, vanilla fig jam can serve as a fantastic glaze. The sweetness of the jam caramelizes beautifully on the meat, creating a rich, flavorful coating.

FAQ: Your Vanilla Fig Jam Questions Answered

• Can I use dried figs instead of fresh ones?
  • Yes, you can! If you’re using dried figs, you’ll want to rehydrate them by soaking them in warm water for a few hours before cooking. This will help bring back some of the moisture and softness that fresh figs naturally have.
• How long will vanilla fig jam last in the fridge?
  • If stored in an airtight container, vanilla fig jam will last about 1 week in the refrigerator. Be sure to check for any signs of mold or spoilage before using.
• Can I freeze vanilla fig jam?
  • Absolutely! If you want to preserve your vanilla fig jam for longer, freezing it is a great option. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of your jar for expansion when freezing.
• Can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?
  • Yes, if you find the jam too sweet, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar. Start with less and taste as you go. The figs will naturally bring some sweetness to the table, so you might not need as much sugar as you think.
• Can I add spices or other flavors to the jam?
  • Definitely! You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom to your vanilla fig jam for a little extra flavor. A splash of brandy or rum can also add a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

Vanilla fig jam is a sweet and versatile treat that can elevate almost any dish. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or topping desserts, this homemade jam adds a delightful touch to your meals. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create something special that will last for weeks in your fridge. The next time you come across fresh figs, consider making a batch of vanilla fig jam—it’s a delicious addition to your kitchen and sure to impress!