Print

Homemade Small-Batch Fig & Honey Jam (Easy Recipe)

small-batch fig and honey jam - featured image

This small-batch fig and honey jam comes together in under 45 minutes with just four simple ingredients. It’s perfect for slathering on toast, spooning over cheese, or giving as a homemade gift.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g (1 lb) fresh figs, stemmed and quartered
  • 120ml (½ cup) honey
  • 30ml (2 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • 5ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract (optional)
  • 15ml (1 tablespoon) balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your figs: Rinse gently under cool water, pat dry, remove stems, and quarter lengthwise.
  2. Combine ingredients in a heavy-bottomed saucepan: Add figs, honey, lemon juice, salt, and optional vanilla or balsamic vinegar. Stir to coat.
  3. Let macerate (optional): Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes to release juices.
  4. Start cooking: Place pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until figs soften.
  5. Mash and stir: After 10 minutes, mash about half the figs with a wooden spoon or potato masher. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently.
  6. Test for doneness: Place a small plate in the freezer. Drop a spoonful of jam onto the cold plate; if it runs slowly and holds its shape, it’s done.
  7. Remove from heat and add final touches: Taste and adjust with more lemon juice or salt if needed. Let cool in the pot for 5 minutes.
  8. Fill your jar: Pour hot jam into a sterilized jar, leaving ½ inch headspace. Wipe rim, seal, and let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.

Notes

The jam will look loose when hot but firms up as it cools. Use the cold plate test to avoid overcooking. Flavor improves after a day or two in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, honey jam, small-batch jam, easy jam recipe, homemade jam, fig recipe, honey recipe, no pectin jam