There’s something truly magical about preserving the bright, sunny flavors of oranges combined with the deep, honeyed sweetness of figs in a homemade Orange Fig Jam Recipe. This jam bursts with natural fruitiness, perfect to brighten up your breakfast or bring an elegant touch to any snack. Whether you’re slathering it over toast, spooning it onto cheese, or using it as a glaze, this jam captures the essence of fresh fruit in a glass jar, making every spoonful feel like a little celebration of seasonal goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Orange Fig Jam Recipe is straightforward because it relies on a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the jam’s texture, flavor, and vibrant color, ensuring your final result is nothing short of spectacular.
- Fresh ripe figs: Choose figs that are soft and fragrant for natural sweetness and a lovely jam texture.
- Oranges (zest and juice): Adds bright citrus notes and aromatic oils that balance the jam’s richness.
- Lemon juice: Helps brighten the flavor and acts as a natural preservative.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps the jam set, but you can adjust it to your taste.
- Pectin (optional): Use this if you want a firmer set, although the natural pectin in the fruit often suffices.
How to Make Orange Fig Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fruit
Start by washing and drying the figs carefully to remove any dirt. Chop them into small, even pieces so they cook uniformly and turn beautifully jammy. Next, zest the oranges, capturing all that fragrant peel, then juice them to bring fresh citrus brightness into the pot.
Step 2: Macerate the Fruit
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped figs, orange juice and zest, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the sugar to dissolve fully and the fruit to release its natural juices, building the base for your jam.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Place your saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and watch as the fruit softens and melds together. Keep it simmering for 30 to 40 minutes, skimming off any foam that appears to keep the jam clear and glossy.
Step 4: Test the Set
Check if your jam is ready by doing a simple gel test. Spoon a small amount onto a chilled plate and push it gently with your finger. If it wrinkles and holds shape, you’re good to go! If it’s still too runny, continue simmering a bit longer and test again until it reaches the perfect consistency.
Step 5: Jar and Seal
Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal them tightly while still warm. To ensure a vacuum seal, invert the jars for 5 minutes then flip them right side up and let cool completely. Your Orange Fig Jam Recipe is now ready to store and enjoy.
How to Serve Orange Fig Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a tiny bit of fresh orange zest or finely chopped figs on top of the jam when serving. This adds a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness that makes the experience even more delightful.
Side Dishes
This jam shines beautifully alongside crusty bread, warm scones, or creamy goat cheese. It’s also a divine pairing with charcuterie boards, lending a sweet and tangy contrast to savory meats and cheeses.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the Orange Fig Jam Recipe over Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey, or swirl it into oatmeal for a flavorful breakfast twist. For a special touch, glaze roasted meats or dollop on pancakes to impress guests at brunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once sealed and cooled, store your jam in a cool, dark place like a pantry for up to a year. After opening, keep it refrigerated and enjoy within a month for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep your jam longer, you can freeze it in airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving to restore its smooth consistency.
Reheating
Warm your jam gently in a small pan or microwave to bring back its luscious softness, especially if it’s been refrigerated or frozen. Stir occasionally to keep the texture smooth and spreadable.
FAQs
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh for this Orange Fig Jam Recipe?
While dried figs can work in a pinch, they contain less moisture and will change the texture and cooking time. Fresh figs yield the best results with vibrant flavor and a natural jam consistency.
Is pectin necessary for a good jam set?
Pectin is optional here since figs and citrus have natural pectin. However, adding a teaspoon or two can help achieve a firmer set if that’s your preference.
How sweet is this Orange Fig Jam Recipe?
The jam has a balanced sweetness from both the fruit and sugar, with a lovely citrus tang to brighten it. You can adjust the sugar level to make it sweeter or more tart according to your taste.
What jar sizes are best for canning this jam?
Small to medium jars, around 4 to 8 ounces, are ideal because you’ll likely enjoy the jam faster and reduce the chance of spoilage after opening.
Can I use this Orange Fig Jam Recipe as a gift?
Absolutely! Homemade jam makes a thoughtful, delicious gift. Just be sure your jars are well sterilized and labeled, and package them beautifully for a personal touch.
Final Thoughts
Making this Orange Fig Jam Recipe is such a joyful experience, and the results are worth every minute. Once you taste that perfect balance of sweet figs and zesty orange, you’ll find yourself reaching for it at every meal. Give it a try and watch this simple jam become a beloved staple in your kitchen and heart.
Print
Orange Fig Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups (about 2-3 jars)
- Category: Jam
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade Orange Fig Jam combines the natural sweetness of ripe figs with the bright, citrusy flavor of fresh oranges. Enhanced by a touch of lemon juice and sugar, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on yogurt, or adding to your favorite desserts. The optional pectin ensures a firmer set, making it ideal for preserving. Easy to make on the stovetop, this jam captures the essence of fresh fruit in every jar.
Ingredients
Fruit Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh ripe figs, chopped
- 2 large oranges, zest and juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons pectin (optional, for firmer set)
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit: Wash and dry the figs thoroughly, then chop them into small pieces to ensure even cooking. Carefully zest the oranges to collect the aromatic oils, then juice the oranges and set aside.
- Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix the chopped figs, orange juice and zest, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine, then let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve and the fruit to release its juices.
- Cook the jam: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, continuing to stir often and skimming off any foam that forms to achieve a clearer jam.
- Check the set: Perform a gel test by dropping a small spoonful of jam onto a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, the jam is ready. If it remains too runny, continue cooking a bit longer and test again.
- Jar the jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal them tightly. Invert the jars and leave them upside down for 5 minutes to create a vacuum seal. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Notes
- Adjust sugar levels depending on the sweetness of your figs and oranges.
- Using pectin is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker jam that sets firmly.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to maximize shelf life and prevent spoilage.
- Store unopened jam jars in a cool, dark place; refrigerate after opening.
- You can customize the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract if desired.
