Print

Easy Small-Batch Fig Preserves Recipe with Lemon Zest and Vanilla

easy small-batch fig preserves - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple and forgiving small-batch fig preserves recipe perfect for beginners, featuring fresh figs, lemon zest, and vanilla for a bright, warm flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh figs, ripe but firm
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Rinse the figs gently under cool water to remove any dirt. Trim off the stems, then roughly chop the figs into quarters or smaller chunks depending on size. (About 10 minutes)
  2. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the chopped figs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla bean seeds (or extract), and water. Stir gently to combine everything.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. After about 5-7 minutes, the figs will start to soften and break down. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently, stirring regularly to prevent sticking. Simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
  4. Test the set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and letting it cool for a minute. Run your finger through it—if it wrinkles and holds shape, the preserves are ready. If still runny, simmer a few minutes longer and test again.
  5. Once set, remove the saucepan from heat. If you used a vanilla bean pod, remove it now. Let the preserves cool slightly, then transfer to a clean jar. Allow to come to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating. Preserves will keep for up to two weeks in the fridge.

Notes

Stir frequently during simmering to avoid burning. Use fresh, ripe figs for best results. Test the set by cooling a spoonful on a plate. Vanilla bean adds richer flavor and speckled appearance but vanilla extract is a fine substitute. For a smoother texture, mash figs slightly during cooking. Preserves keep up to two weeks refrigerated and can be frozen in small portions.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig preserves, fig jam, small batch preserves, lemon zest, vanilla, easy preserves, beginner recipe, homemade jam

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/easy-small-batch-fig-preserves-recipe-with-lemon-zest-and-vanilla-perfect-for-beginners/