Easy Homemade Fig Jam Recipe (No Pectin Required)

If you’ve been searching for the best homemade fig jam recipe, you’re in the right place! This simple jam is bursting with natural sweetness and requires no pectin. All you need are fresh figs, sugar, lemon juice, and a bit of water. The result is a luscious, thick jam that’s perfect for spreading on warm toast, pairing with a cheese board, or even glazing roasted meats.

The best part? You can easily make this fig jam recipe with dried figs when fresh ones aren’t in season, and you can also customize the flavor with spices or wine for a gourmet twist.

Why You’ll Love This Fig Jam Recipe

No pectin needed – the natural pectin in figs and lemon juice thickens the jam beautifully.
Versatile uses – enjoy it at breakfast, with appetizers, or as a glaze for savory dishes.
Beginner-friendly – no special equipment required, just a saucepan and jars.
Make ahead – it keeps well in the fridge or freezer, and you can also can it for long-term storage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 pounds green or purple figs (stemmed and cut into ½-inch pieces)
1 ½ cups sugar
¼ cup + 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup water

👉 Optional: Add a splash of white port, red wine, or fresh rosemary sprigs for a gourmet twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Figs

Wash and stem the figs, then cut them into ½-inch pieces. Place them in a large nonreactive saucepan (such as stainless steel or enamel). Add sugar and let sit for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the figs release their juices and the sugar begins to dissolve.

2. Add Liquids

Stir in the lemon juice and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until all the sugar has fully dissolved.

3. Simmer the Jam

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the figs are soft and the jam has thickened. To test, dip a spoon into the jam — if it drips off slowly in thick drops, it’s ready.

4. Jar and Cool

Spoon the jam into three sterilized ½-pint jars, leaving ¼ inch of space at the top. Seal tightly, let cool to room temperature, and refrigerate.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 months.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 6 months in freezer-safe containers.
Canning: For long-term storage, follow a safe water bath canning method.

Variations & Substitutions

Sugar-free fig jam recipe: Swap the sugar for honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia.
Spiced fig jam: Add cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
Wine-infused jam: A splash of white port or red wine adds depth and complexity.
Herbal twist: Stir in rosemary, thyme, or vanilla for a fragrant note.

Ways to Use Fig Jam

Spread on toast, biscuits, or croissants.
Pair with cheese boards (brie, goat cheese, or blue cheese).
Use as a filling for cakes, pastries, or thumbprint cookies.
Add a spoonful to oatmeal or yogurt for natural sweetness.
Brush over roasted chicken or pork as a glaze.

FAQs About Fig Jam

1. Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?

Yes! Soak dried figs in warm water for 30 minutes before cooking, then follow the same recipe.

2. How do I make fig jam thicker?

Cook it longer to reduce more liquid, or use pectin if you prefer a firmer texture.

3. Is this fig jam healthy?

Figs are naturally rich in fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. You can make it healthier by reducing the sugar or swapping it for honey.

4. How long does fig jam last?

Stored properly, it keeps up to 3 months in the fridge, 6 months in the freezer, and a year if canned.

Final Thoughts

This easy homemade fig jam recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, fruity spreads. With no pectin required and endless flavor variations, it’s one of the simplest ways to capture the natural sweetness of figs. Whether you spread it on bread, serve it with cheese, or use it in cooking, it’s guaranteed to become a pantry staple.