Fig pear jam is a delightful way to capture the essence of late summer and early fall. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the rich, earthy flavor of figs creates a jam that’s both unique and irresistibly delicious. This recipe brings out the best of both fruits in a spread that’s perfect for toast, cheese boards, or even as a glaze for meats.
We love how easy it is to make this jam at home with just a few simple ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to preserve seasonal flavors and enjoy them year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or trying it for the first time, this fig pear jam recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For our Fig Pear Jam Recipe, selecting the freshest and ripest ingredients is key to capturing the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Here is the precise list of what we need:
- 2 cups ripe pears, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh figs, stemmed and quartered
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for natural acidity and preservation)
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (to enhance citrus aroma)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warm spice notes)
- ¼ cup water (to help dissolve the sugar and cook fruit evenly)
This balanced combination of fruit and natural flavor enhancers ensures the fig pear jam is both vibrant and shelf-stable.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Pears | 2 cups | Peeled, cored, chopped |
| Fresh figs | 2 cups | Stemmed, quartered |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ½ cups | — |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Squeezed fresh |
| Lemon zest | 1 teaspoon (grated) | Zested from whole lemon |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon (optional) | — |
| Water | ¼ cup | — |
Tip: Use firm but ripe pears and soft, fragrant figs for the best natural sweetness and jam consistency.
Equipment Needed
To create our Fig Pear Jam with ease and precision, we must gather the right equipment. Having these tools ready ensures a smooth cooking process and delicious results every time.
Essential Tools for Making Fig Pear Jam
- Large Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
We use this to cook the fruit mixture evenly without scorching. A heavy bottom helps distribute heat uniformly.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ideal for stirring our jam gently as it thickens, preventing it from sticking or burning.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping ripe pears and fresh figs into uniform pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of ingredients like sugar, lemon juice, and water is key to perfect texture and flavor.
- Canning Jars with Lids
Sterilized jars keep the jam fresh and ready for storage.
- Ladle
Helps us transfer hot jam into jars cleanly without spills or burns.
- Candy or Jam Thermometer (optional)
We recommend using this to monitor the temperature and reach the ideal setting point around 220°F (104°C).
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Heavy-Bottomed Pan | Even cooking without hot spots |
| Wooden Spoon / Silicone Spatula | Gentle stirring without scratching |
| Sharp Knife & Cutting Board | Precise chopping of fruit |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Canning Jars & Lids | Safe storage and preservation |
| Ladle | Clean, easy jar-filling |
| Candy/Jam Thermometer (optional) | Temperature control for perfect set |
By assembling these tools beforehand, we set ourselves up for success in making a luscious, well-textured Fig Pear Jam that captures the essence of seasonal fruit perfectly.
Preparation
To create the perfect Fig Pear Jam, thorough preparation of our ingredients and equipment is essential. Let’s carefully prepare the figs, pears, and ensure our jars are properly sterilized for safe storage.
Preparing the Figs
- Choose fresh figs that are soft, fragrant, and fully ripe to enhance the jam’s natural sweetness.
- Gently rinse the figs under cool running water to remove any dirt.
- Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Remove the stems and cut the figs into quarters or smaller pieces depending on their size. This helps them cook evenly and release their flavor and natural pectin.
- Set the prepared figs aside in a bowl, ready to be combined with the pears.
Preparing the Pears
- Select firm but ripe pears to maintain a nice texture in the jam.
- Rinse the pears thoroughly under cool water and dry.
- Peel the pears using a paring knife or vegetable peeler to get a smooth jam texture.
- Core the pears and chop them into small, even pieces about 1/2 inch cubes.
- Place the chopped pears in a bowl and toss with the 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and add brightness to the jam’s flavor.
Sterilizing the Jars
Proper sterilization of jars is critical for preserving our Fig Pear Jam safely and extending its shelf life.
| Sterilization Method | Steps | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling Water Bath | 1. Wash jars and lids with hot soapy water. 2. Place jars in a large pot filled with water. 3. Bring to a gentle boil for 10 minutes. 4. Remove with tongs and place on a clean towel. |
10 minutes |
| Oven Method | 1. Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C). 2. Wash jars and lids. 3. Place jars on a baking sheet. 4. Heat jars for 20 minutes. 5. Turn off oven and keep jars inside until needed. |
20 minutes |
- Always keep jars hot and dry until filling to avoid cracking.
- Use sterilized lids and new sealing rings to ensure airtight preservation.
By meticulously preparing the figs and pears and sterilizing our jars, we set the foundation for a delicious, vibrant Fig Pear Jam that will preserve the flavors of late summer in every jar.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to transform our fresh ingredients into a flavorful Fig Pear Jam with the perfect texture and taste.
Combining Ingredients
- In our large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine:
- 2 cups of diced ripe pears
- 2 cups of chopped fresh figs
- 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ cup of water
- Stir the mixture gently with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to evenly distribute the sugar and lemon juice.
- Let the fruit and sugar sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the sugar to start dissolving and the fruit juices to release—this step intensifies the flavor and helps create a natural syrup base.
Cooking the Jam
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Stir frequently to avoid scorching.
- Cook for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the fruit to soften and the mixture to thicken.
- As it cooks, observe the jam’s texture: it will become more translucent and glossy.
- Optional: Use a candy or jam thermometer to monitor the temperature and keep it around 220°F (104°C) for an ideal set.
Testing for Doneness
We use these tried-and-true methods to test that our fig pear jam is perfectly cooked:
| Test Method | Instructions | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Plate Test | Place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. Wait 1 minute. | The jam should wrinkle when pushed gently with your finger. |
| Sheet Test | Lift a spoon of jam and let it drip back into the pot. | Jam should fall in thick sheets rather than runny droplets. |
| Temperature Check | Use a jam thermometer during cooking. | Jam should reach 220°F (104°C) for proper gel formation. |
If the jam passes these tests, it is ready to remove from heat.
Next, we carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars while it’s still bubbling hot to preserve freshness and flavor.
Canning and Storage
Proper Canning and Storage are essential to preserve the vibrant flavors and freshness of our Fig Pear Jam. Let’s walk through each crucial step to ensure our jam stays delicious and safe to enjoy for months.
Filling the Jars
We begin by carefully transferring the hot jam into the sterilized jars using a clean ladle.
- Leave ¼ inch of headspace at the top of each jar to allow for expansion during processing.
- Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the jar rims. This removes any residue that can interfere with sealing.
- Make sure the jam is hot and freshly cooked to maximize preservation.
Sealing and Processing
Next, we seal and process the jars to form a vacuum seal that locks in freshness.
- Place the sterilized lids on top of each jar.
- Screw on the metal bands until fingertip tight – not too tight to prevent air escape during processing.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude if necessary.
- During processing, water should cover jars by at least 1 inch.
- Carefully remove jars and place them on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Headspace | ¼ inch |
| Processing time | 10 minutes |
| Water coverage | 1 inch |
| Cooling duration | 12 to 24 hours |
Storing the Jam
Once jars have cooled, we perform the final checks and store our jam correctly.
- Check for a proper seal by pressing the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed.
- Label jars with the date and contents for easy tracking.
- Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry.
- Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within 3 weeks.
- Properly sealed and stored jam can last up to 1 year, retaining its vibrant flavor and texture.
By following these steps, we ensure our Fig Pear Jam stays delicious and safe for year-round enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
Our Fig Pear Jam offers a delightful balance of sweetness and subtle spice that enhances a wide variety of dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this versatile jam:
On Breakfast Favorites
Spread a generous layer of Fig Pear Jam on warm toast or freshly baked croissants. The rich fruitiness pairs beautifully with creamy butter or soft cream cheese, elevating any morning meal. Add a dollop on top of pancakes or waffles for an extra burst of flavor.
With Cheese and Charcuterie
Fig Pear Jam shines on cheese boards. We suggest pairing it with strong, aged cheeses such as sharp cheddar, tangy goat cheese, or creamy brie. The jam’s sweetness balances the saltiness of cured meats like prosciutto or salami, creating a harmonious palate experience.
As a Meat Glaze or Sauce
Use our jam as a glaze for roasted pork tenderloin or grilled chicken. Brush the jam over meat during the last 10 minutes of cooking to create a glossy, caramelized finish that adds depth without overpowering the dish.
Dessert Accents
Incorporate Fig Pear Jam into desserts by swirling it into yogurt parfaits or mixing into vanilla ice cream for a fruity twist. It also works as a filling for thumbprint cookies or drizzled over cheesecake.
Serving Ideas Table
| Serving Style | Suggested Pairings | Usage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast Spread | Butter, cream cheese, croissants, pancakes | Spread thick on warm bread or drizzle on hot pancakes |
| Cheese Board | Aged cheddar, goat cheese, brie, cured meats | Place a small bowl of jam alongside cheeses and meats |
| Meat Glaze | Pork tenderloin, grilled chicken | Brush on during last 10 minutes of roasting/grilling |
| Dessert Accent | Vanilla ice cream, yogurt parfaits, thumbprint cookies | Swirl or dollop on top for added sweetness and texture |
Pro Tips for Serving
- Serve Fig Pear Jam slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor release.
- Pair with complementary nuts such as walnuts or almonds to add crunch and contrast.
- Use clean utensils to avoid contamination and preserve jam quality in storage jars.
By exploring these serving suggestions, we can fully enjoy the unique flavors of our Fig Pear Jam beyond just spreading it on toast.
Conclusion
Making fig pear jam is a rewarding way to capture the best of seasonal fruit and enjoy it all year long. With just a few simple steps and the right ingredients, we can create a versatile jam that enhances everything from breakfast to dinner.
By preserving these flavors in jars, we bring a taste of late summer into our kitchens whenever we want. It’s a delicious tradition worth sharing and savoring together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make fig pear jam?
You need 2 cups ripe pears, 2 cups fresh figs, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional), and ¼ cup water. Use firm but ripe pears and soft, fragrant figs for best flavor and texture.
What equipment is essential for making fig pear jam?
You’ll need a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, sharp knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, sterilized canning jars, a ladle, and optionally, a candy or jam thermometer.
How should I prepare the fruit before cooking?
Select ripe pears and figs, rinse them gently, dry thoroughly, and cut into appropriate sizes. This preserves the fruit’s flavor and texture in the jam.
How do I sterilize jars for storing fig pear jam?
You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or using an oven method by heating jars at 225°F for 10-15 minutes. Always sterilize jars before filling to ensure safe storage.
What is the cooking process for fig pear jam?
Combine ingredients in a saucepan, let sit for 10-15 minutes, then bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring often. Test for doneness using the cold plate, sheet test, or a thermometer.
How do I know when the jam is ready?
Jam is ready when it thickens and passes tests like the cold plate test (jam gels when cooled on a plate) or reaches about 220°F on a thermometer, indicating the ideal set.
How do I can and store fig pear jam safely?
Fill sterilized jars leaving ¼ inch headspace, wipe rims clean, seal with sterilized lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Cool jars undisturbed, check seals, label, and store in a cool, dark place.
How long does fig pear jam last when properly stored?
Properly canned and stored fig pear jam can last up to a year while retaining its vibrant flavor and texture.
What are some serving suggestions for fig pear jam?
Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or as a cheese board accompaniment. It works well as a meat glaze and can also enhance desserts. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature for best taste.
Can beginners make fig pear jam successfully?
Yes! The recipe is simple and accessible to both novice and experienced jam makers, especially when following preparation and cooking steps carefully.