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Balsamic Fig Jam

Balsamic Fig Jam is a glossy, jammy spread made by simmering chopped fresh figs with sugar and balsamic vinegar until thick. Remove a cinnamon stick, then hot-jar and water-bath process for a rich, tangy-sweet cheese board topper.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
water-bath canning 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruit base
  • 4 cup fresh figs, chopped Use fresh, ripe figs; chop into small pieces for faster thickening.
  • 2 cup sugar Regular granulated sugar dissolves cleanly as the mixture simmers.
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Adds tangy depth; keep it smooth by stirring during simmering.
  • 1 cinnamon stick For warm spice; remove before jarring.

Equipment

  • 1 Dutch oven
  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Cook the jam
  1. Combine chopped fresh figs, sugar, and balsamic vinegar in a Dutch oven over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is moistened and the mixture looks syrupy. Bring to a steady simmer and reduce to maintain bubbling.
  2. Simmer for 30 min, stirring often, until the jam thickens and looks glossy with deep purple fig pieces. Skim any foam if needed and keep the simmer consistent.
  3. Remove the cinnamon stick and discard it. Taste and adjust thickness by simmering 5 minutes more if you want it thicker.
Jar and process
  1. Jar the jam while hot into clean jars, leaving the proper headspace for canning. Wipe rims, cap tightly, and keep jars hot until processing.
  2. Process the sealed jars in a water bath for 10 min so the lids seal properly. Remove and cool completely before storing.

Notes

Pro tip: For a jam-like texture without turning it grainy, keep a steady simmer and stir frequently so figs break down evenly. Refrigerate after opening for up to 2 weeks; unopened jars keep for about 1 year in a cool, dark pantry. Freezing is yes—freeze in portions up to 3 months, leaving headspace. For a lower-sugar option, use a 1:1 sugar substitute suitable for preserves (it helps the set stay jammy).