Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This jam is simple to make yet deeply flavorful. The combination of cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg adds warmth and complexity, while the apple provides natural pectin for the perfect consistency. Once canned, it keeps beautifully for months, making it a versatile pantry staple.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

32 ounces fresh ripe figs, washed and quartered (Black Mission figs recommended)
32 ounces white cane sugar
½ tablespoon cardamom seeds
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 Granny Smith apple, cored, peeled, and diced
1 tablespoon jarred lemon juice
10 ounces water

Directions

Place figs, apple, and water in a large saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until fruit is soft.
Add sugar, cardamom seeds, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 30–40 minutes.
Remove from heat and discard cardamom seeds. Mash gently with a potato masher if a smoother texture is desired.
Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal with lids.
Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing. Remove jars and let cool completely. Check seals before storing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4–5 half jars of jam.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50–60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10–15 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground cloves for extra warmth.
Substitute part of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Add a few strips of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
Make it spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne or more ginger.

Storage/Reheating

Properly canned and sealed jars can be stored at room temperature for up to 12 months. Once opened, keep refrigerated and use within 3 weeks.

FAQs

Can I use frozen figs?

Yes, thaw them completely before cooking.

Do I need to remove the cardamom seeds?

Yes, they add flavor while cooking but can be discarded for a smoother jam.

Can I make this sugar-free or low-sugar?

You can use a low-sugar pectin or natural sweeteners, but the texture may be slightly different.

How do I know when the jam is done?

A spoon dipped into the jam should coat it thickly. It will thicken slightly as it cools.

Can I skip the canning step?

Yes, you can store the jam in the fridge for up to 3 weeks without processing in a water bath.

Conclusion

Spiced Fig Jam for Canning is a fragrant, sweet, and warmly spiced preserve that captures the essence of fall and winter fruits. Whether spread on bread, stirred into oatmeal, or given as a homemade gift, this jam brings cozy, layered flavors to your table.