Chunky Vanilla Fig Preserves
Fresh figs simmered with vanilla into a simple, spoonable jam for toast, breakfast bowls, desserts, and cheese-style boards.
Chunky Vanilla Fig Preserves
This small-batch fig preserve is rich and spoonable, with pieces of fig suspended in a lightly syrupy vanilla base. Fresh figs give it the soft, jammy texture shown in the photo, while lemon juice keeps the sweetness balanced and bright. It is simple enough for weekday toast but special enough for a brunch board or dessert plate.
Makes: About 1 1/4 cups | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
1 lb. (450 g) fresh ripe figs, stemmed and quartered
1/3 cup (80 ml) maple syrup
2 tbsp. (30 ml) water
1 tbsp. (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. lemon zest
1 tsp. vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Pinch of sea salt
Directions
Add the figs, maple syrup, water, lemon juice, lemon zest, and sea salt to a small saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
Set the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the figs begin to soften and release their juices.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue simmering for 18–22 minutes, stirring often, until the figs are very soft and the liquid has thickened into a glossy syrup.
Use the back of a spoon to lightly press some of the figs against the side of the pan, leaving plenty of larger pieces for a chunky preserve-style texture.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla. Let the preserves cool for 10–15 minutes; they will continue to thicken as they cool.
Transfer to a clean jar, cover, and refrigerate for up to 10 days.
Make It Yours
For a deeper flavor, add a small cinnamon stick while the figs simmer, then remove it before storing.
For a brighter finish, replace the lemon zest with orange zest.
For a more spreadable jam, mash the figs more thoroughly at the end of cooking.
For a dessert-style version, stir in 1–2 tsp. balsamic vinegar after simmering to give the preserves a richer, slightly tangy finish.
Pairs Well With
Toast, English muffins, biscuits, or warm scones
Vegan cheese boards with crackers, grapes, and toasted nuts
Oatmeal, chia pudding, or dairy-free yogurt bowls
Thumbprint cookies, shortbread bars, or vanilla cake layers
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