Print

Best Small Batch Fig Jam Recipe with Orange Zest and Vanilla Bean

small batch fig jam - featured image

A quick and easy small batch fig jam recipe featuring fresh orange zest and warm vanilla bean for a bright, aromatic, and slightly chunky homemade spread.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh figs, washed and quartered
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
  • Zest of one medium orange, finely grated
  • 1 whole vanilla bean pod, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml)
  • 1/4 cup water (60ml)

Instructions

  1. Rinse figs under cool water, dry gently, remove stems, and quarter (cut into smaller chunks if large). Measure sugar, zest, lemon juice, and scrape vanilla bean seeds.
  2. Place figs and 1/4 cup water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently and bring to a simmer.
  3. Add sugar and stir until dissolved, keeping heat moderate to avoid burning.
  4. Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until figs break down and mixture thickens. Add a splash of water if too dry.
  5. Stir in orange zest, lemon juice, vanilla bean seeds, and the empty pod. Let infuse for 5 minutes.
  6. Test jam by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape after cooling, it is done. If not, simmer longer and test again.
  7. Remove vanilla pod and spoon hot jam into sterilized jars. Let cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.

Notes

Use firm, ripe figs for best texture. Stir gently to keep some fig chunks intact. Add citrus zest and lemon juice late in cooking to preserve brightness. Test jam with the wrinkle test on a chilled plate. Refrigerate and consume within two weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, small batch jam, homemade jam, orange zest, vanilla bean, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves