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Flavorful Small Batch Fig Jam Recipe with Orange Zest and Black Pepper Made Easy

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A quick and easy small batch fig jam featuring fresh figs, bright orange zest, and a subtle kick of black pepper. Perfect for breakfast spreads, cheese boards, or gift-giving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh ripe figs, washed and quartered
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest (from 1 medium orange)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Wash and quarter 1 pound (450g) of fresh ripe figs. Cut into smaller chunks if figs are very large (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine figs, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (60ml) water, 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh orange juice, and 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice.
  3. Place the pan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and figs start to break down, about 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the orange zest (about 1 tablespoon) and 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 20–25 minutes until thick and jammy.
  6. Test the jam by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and doesn’t flood back, it is ready.
  7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to a clean jar or container. The jam will thicken as it cools. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

Use ripe figs for best flavor and consistency. Stir often to prevent burning. Test jam consistency with chilled plate method. Optional vanilla extract can be added after cooling for richer flavor. For longer storage, sterilize jars and can or freeze in small portions.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, small batch jam, orange zest jam, black pepper jam, homemade jam, easy jam recipe, breakfast spread, gift jam