Few things capture the essence of late summer quite like ripe, juicy figs. Their soft texture, honeyed sweetness, and subtle floral notes make them one of the season’s most beloved fruits in the South. This homemade fig jam recipe from Louisiana Cookin celebrates the beauty of fresh figs by preserving their flavor in a luscious, spiced spread. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort, you can create a jam that’s both elegant and rustic—perfect for everything from your morning toast to an evening cheese board. The combination of figs, sugar, lemon, and cinnamon results in a preserve that tastes like it came straight from a jar at a Louisiana farmer’s market.

Whether you’re an experienced canner or just trying your hand at homemade preserves for the first time, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. It’s inspired by Southern kitchens where making jam from scratch is as much a tradition as it is a practical way to enjoy seasonal produce longer. You’ll love how easily it comes together—and how incredible your kitchen smells as it simmers.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds fresh figs, washed, stemmed, and chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Directions:

1. Begin by placing the chopped figs in a large bowl. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the top and toss everything gently to coat the fruit. This process, known as maceration, draws out the figs’ natural juices and helps dissolve the sugar. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours—or even overnight, if you have the time. The longer the mixture sits, the more the flavors will meld and develop.
2. Transfer the fig and sugar mixture to an enamel-coated cast-iron Dutch oven, which provides even heat and prevents the sugar from scorching. Add the cinnamon sticks and bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it—the jam will thicken and darken as it cooks, usually within 30 to 45 minutes. Be sure to skim off any foam that rises to the surface; this keeps your jam smooth and clear.
3. Once the jam coats the back of a spoon (a classic sign of readiness), stir in the lemon zest and juice. These final touches brighten up the flavor and balance the sweetness. Let the mixture cook for one more minute, then remove it from the heat.
4. Carefully spoon the jam into a clean glass jar, seal it tightly, and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the jam. It will keep beautifully for up to a month—if it lasts that long!
5. To serve, know that this jam is as versatile as it is delicious. Slather it over a warm, buttery biscuit or thick slice of crusty sourdough bread. It pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or even mascarpone. Add it to a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, nuts, and crackers for a sophisticated touch at your next gathering. You can even spoon it over yogurt or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies.

Suggested Side Dishes:

To round out your fig jam experience, consider these complementary options:

• Southern buttermilk biscuits: Nothing beats warm, fluffy biscuits topped with homemade jam.
•  Toasted walnut bread: The slight bitterness of walnuts pairs beautifully with the sweetness of figs.
•  Arugula salad with goat cheese: A tangy, peppery salad offers a refreshing contrast to the jam’s sweetness.

This fig jam recipe captures the nostalgic charm of Southern home cooking while offering a touch of elegance. With just five ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a preserve that’s rich, fragrant, and full of late-summer flavor. Whether you’re gifting it, savoring it slowly, or devouring it by the spoonful, this jam is bound to become a seasonal favorite in your home.

For more delicious recipes, click here.