These old-fashioned fig preserves are a sweet treat made from fresh figs and sugar, cooked down to a thick, luscious spread. Perfect for spreading on toast or biscuits!
I love how the rich, fruity flavor brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen. It’s a little slice of nostalgia that’s just too tasty to resist! Spread it on everything! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Figs: Use ripe, fresh figs for the best flavor. If figs are hard to find, you can substitute with dried figs, but you’ll need to soak them in water first. Fresh figs just have that sweet, juicy taste that make the preserves special.
Sugar: Granulated sugar works perfectly for sweetness and texture. If you need a substitute, try using honey or agave syrup, but adjust the amounts slightly since these sweeteners are sweeter than sugar.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is always best when possible for taste! A splash of apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch too.
Cinnamon and Zest: Ground cinnamon and lemon zest are optional, but they enhance the flavor. If you’re not a cinnamon fan, try a pinch of nutmeg instead. You can also skip it if you prefer the pure fig flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Thickness for Your Fig Preserves?
The secret to getting your fig preserves to the right consistency is all in the cooking process. Start by cooking the mixture over medium heat to boil the ingredients together, then reduce to low heat for a gentle simmer.
- Stir often to prevent burning—this helps keep it smooth.
- Look for a glossy appearance and check its thickness by spoon testing as mentioned.
- If it’s too runny, continue cooking a little longer. If too thick, you can add a bit of water to loosen it up.
Don’t rush this step; it takes time for the sugar to create that thick, jammy texture that makes these preserves so delicious!
Old-Fashioned Fig Preserves
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups ripe fresh figs, stemmed and quartered
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon zest (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare your ingredients and about 1 hour to cook the preserves. After cooking, let them cool and then store. You’ll need a little bit of waiting time as they set, but the end result is well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Figs:
Start by washing the figs thoroughly to remove any dirt. Remove the stems, and then cut each fig into quarters. This will help them cook down easier and release their delicious juices.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, mix together the quartered figs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water. This mixture will start to come alive once it sits for a bit!
3. Let it Sit:
Allow the mixture to sit for about 30 minutes. This gives the figs a chance to release their juices and helps the sugar start to dissolve.
4. Cook the Preserves:
Place your pot on the stove over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Be sure to stir frequently to keep it from sticking to the bottom. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer Till Thickened:
Let the mixture simmer gently while you stir often. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, as it may take about 45 minutes to an hour to thicken. The preserves should look glossy and should coat the back of a spoon nicely!
6. Add Flavorings:
If you’d like a touch of spice, stir in the ground cinnamon and lemon zest about 5 minutes before the cooking time is up. This will really elevate the flavor of your preserves!
7. Test for Doneness:
To check if your fig preserves are ready, drop a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s perfect!
8. Cool Down:
Remove the pot from heat and let the preserves cool slightly before transferring them.
9. Jar Them Up:
Pour the warm preserves into sterilized jars. Seal them tightly, then allow them to cool completely. This ensures they stay fresh and delicious!
10. Store and Enjoy:
You can keep your fig preserves in the refrigerator and use them within a few weeks. If you want to store them longer, consider processing them in a water bath canner for a longer shelf life.
Now, enjoy your homemade old-fashioned fig preserves spread generously on toast, biscuits, or paired with cheese for a delightful treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Old-Fashioned Fig Preserves
Can I Use Frozen Figs for This Recipe?
You can use frozen figs, but it’s best to thaw them first! Simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. Drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe for the best results.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness of the Preserves?
If you find the mixture too sweet, you can add a bit more lemon juice to balance the flavors. Alternatively, if it’s not sweet enough, feel free to add more sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your preferred sweetness.
How Long Can I Store the Fig Preserves?
Your homemade fig preserves will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, process jars in a water bath canner to keep them shelf-stable for up to a year. Just remember to check for a proper seal once they cool down!
Can I Substitute Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled juice will work in a pinch. To add a little kick, you can also swap cinnamon for nutmeg or even ginger. Feel free to experiment with flavors based on your tastes!
