If you’re searching for a delightful spread that elevates breakfast, snacks, or desserts, this Orange Fig Jam Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. With the natural sweetness of ripe figs perfectly balanced by bright citrus notes from fresh oranges and a hint of lemon, this jam offers a luscious texture and vibrant flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Making this jam at home is not only rewarding but also fills your kitchen with heavenly aromas that make every step memorable. Whether you spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or pair it with cheese, this Orange Fig Jam Recipe is a treasure worth savoring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the jam’s final taste, texture, and color, making this recipe uncomplicated yet truly special.
- Fresh ripe figs (2 cups, chopped): The star of the jam, figs bring natural sweetness, a subtle chewiness, and beautiful speckled texture.
- Oranges (2 large, zest and juice): Their zest adds bright citrus oils while the juice infuses the jam with zesty acidity and fresh flavor.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Acts as a natural preservative and balances the sweetness with a gentle tartness.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the jam and helps with preservation; you can adjust this to fit your personal taste.
- Pectin (1–2 teaspoons, optional): For those who prefer a firmer set, pectin helps the jam gel perfectly without extra cooking.
How to Make Orange Fig Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Start by washing and drying the fresh figs to remove any debris. Chop them into small, even pieces—this helps them cook down uniformly and contributes to a lovely jam texture. Next, zest the oranges carefully to capture the fragrant oils from the peel, then juice the oranges to add fresh citrus sweetness and tang.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped figs, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together well, then let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. This resting time lets the sugar dissolve fully and encourages the fruit to release its natural juices—setting the stage for a rich, flavorful jam.
Step 3: Cook the Jam
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring your jam mixture to a gentle boil. Keep stirring frequently to prevent the fruit and sugar from sticking or burning. Let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, maintaining a close eye on it to skim off any foam that appears on top. Removing the foam helps keep the jam clear and smooth in appearance.
Step 4: Test the Consistency
To ensure your Orange Fig Jam Recipe has reached the perfect set, perform a gel test. Spoon a small amount of the hot jam onto a chilled plate, then let it cool for a minute. Press the jam gently with your finger—if it wrinkles instead of running, it’s ready! If the jam still seems too loose, simply continue simmering and test again after a few minutes.
Step 5: Jar and Cool
Once your jam has reached the ideal consistency, carefully pour it into sterilized jars while still hot. Seal the jars tightly and invert them to sit upside down for about 5 minutes. This simple step helps create a vacuum seal that preserves the jam’s freshness. Finally, allow the jars to cool completely before storing them away or gifting.
How to Serve Orange Fig Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little garnish can turn your Orange Fig Jam into something visually stunning. Try sprinkling fresh fig slices or a few orange zest curls atop your dishes for an elegant touch. A light sprig of mint can also add a refreshing pop of color and an herby aroma that complements the jam’s citrusy sweetness.
Side Dishes
This Orange Fig Jam Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. Spread it over warm, buttered toast or a flaky croissant for a luxurious breakfast. It’s equally dreamy alongside creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, making for a sophisticated snack or appetizer. For a twist, serve it alongside roasted meats such as pork or chicken, where the jam’s sweetness enhances savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the basics, get creative with your Orange Fig Jam! Swirl it into Greek yogurt or oatmeal for a naturally sweet breakfast. Use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies or spread between layers of a cake for an unexpected burst of flavor. It even works beautifully as a glaze for roasted vegetables or as a topping on ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After making your Orange Fig Jam Recipe, store it in airtight glass jars or containers in the refrigerator. Properly sealed, the jam will stay fresh for up to three weeks, so you can enjoy spoonfuls over time without worry.
Freezing
If you want to keep your jam for even longer, freezing is a great option. Transfer the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace because it will expand. Frozen orange fig jam maintains its flavor and texture for several months and is perfect for preserving the seasonal essence of figs and oranges.
Reheating
When you’re ready to use frozen jam, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If the jam seems a bit runny afterward, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat while stirring, so it thickens back to the perfect consistency without compromising flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh in the Orange Fig Jam Recipe?
Fresh figs provide the best texture and flavor thanks to their moisture content. However, if using dried figs, soak them in warm water for about an hour to rehydrate before chopping. Be mindful that dried figs are sweeter and less juicy, so you may need to adjust sugar and liquid measurements accordingly.
Is it necessary to use pectin in this Orange Fig Jam Recipe?
Pectin is optional here. The natural pectin in figs and citrus helps the jam set, but using a small amount of pectin guarantees a firmer consistency. If you prefer a softer, spoonable jam, you can skip it entirely and just cook the jam a bit longer.
How long does homemade orange fig jam last once opened?
Once opened, store your jam in the refrigerator tightly sealed, and it should stay fresh for about 2 to 3 weeks. Always use a clean utensil when scooping to avoid contamination and extend its shelf life.
Can I make this jam without added sugar?
Since figs and oranges are naturally sweet, you could try reducing or omitting the sugar, but note that sugar acts as both a sweetener and preservative. Without it, the jam may have a shorter shelf life and a different texture, so adjustments might be necessary for best results.
What’s the best way to sterilize jars for canning?
To sterilize jars, wash them in hot soapy water, rinse well, then boil them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes or place them in a hot oven at 225°F (107°C) for 20 minutes. Keep jars hot until filling to prevent cracking and ensure a safe seal for storing your jam.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about making jam from scratch, especially when it’s an Orange Fig Jam Recipe bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and some love, you create a golden jar of deliciousness that brightens every meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll discover how incredibly satisfying it is to spread homemade goodness on your table and share it with loved ones.
Print
Orange Fig Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Jam
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful homemade orange fig jam combining ripe fresh figs with zesty oranges and lemon juice, slow-cooked to a perfect spreadable consistency. This sweet and tangy jam is ideal for adding a burst of fruity flavor to your breakfast toast or desserts.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 2 cups fresh ripe figs, chopped
- 2 large oranges, zest and juice
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons pectin (optional, for firmer set)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and dry the figs, then chop them into small pieces to ensure even cooking. Carefully zest the oranges to collect the aromatic oils, then juice the oranges to have fresh citrus juice ready for cooking.
- Combine Ingredients in a Pot: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped figs, orange juice and zest, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well and allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes to dissolve the sugar and let the fruits release their juices.
- Cook the Jam: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and scorching. Let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring often and skimming off any foam to keep the jam clear and smooth.
- Test the Consistency: Perform the gel test by placing a small spoonful of jam onto a chilled plate. Push the jam with your finger; if it wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam has set properly. If it’s still too runny, continue simmering and test again after a few minutes.
- Jar and Cool: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal tightly, then invert the jars for 5 minutes to create a vacuum seal. Leave the jars upright and allow them to cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place or refrigerator.
Notes
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the sweetness of your figs and personal taste preferences.
- Pectin is optional but can help achieve a firmer jam texture.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator once opened for best quality.
- This jam pairs beautifully with cheeses, toast, or as a glaze for desserts.
