strawberry fig preserve recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
strawberry fig preserve recipe
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The Best strawberry fig preserve recipe

I have to say, this strawberry fig preserve recipe is one of my absolute favorites. I love making it every summer when both fruits are in season and at their peak sweetness. The combination of sweet strawberries and rich, honey like figs creates a jam that is just perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or even using as a filling for cakes. My kids go crazy for it, and I always feel good knowing they are eating something made with real fruit and not a bunch of artificial ingredients.

The beauty of this recipe is how simple it is to make. You just need fresh strawberries and figs, some sugar, a bit of lemon juice, and a little patience. The cooking process is straightforward, and the result is a preserve that tastes like summer in a jar. I love that I can control the amount of sugar, so I can make it as sweet or as tangy as I want.

It is also a great way to use up extra fruit from the farmers market or your garden. Health wise, this preserve is a winner. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, while figs are full of fiber and important minerals like potassium and calcium. So when you spread this on your morning toast, you are actually getting some good nutrients.

It is a much better choice than store bought jams that are loaded with high fructose corn syrup and preservatives. I always feel good about serving this to my family. This recipe has become a staple in our home. I love making a big batch and giving jars as gifts to neighbors and friends.

It is perfect for holiday gift baskets or just as a thoughtful homemade present. And honestly, it is so easy that even beginner cooks can pull it off. If you have never made your own jam before, this is a great place to start.

Strawberry Fig Preserve

Strawberry Fig Preserve

4.9 from 1482 votes

This strawberry fig preserve is a sweet and slightly tangy jam that captures the essence of summer. Made with fresh strawberries and ripe figs, it is perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or using as a filling for pastries.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4 (half pint jars)Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Preserve

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
2 cups fresh figs, stemmed and chopped
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Prepare the fruit by washing the strawberries and figs thoroughly.
2Hull the strawberries and chop them into quarters, then stem the figs and chop them into small pieces.
3Place all the fruit into a large heavy bottomed pot.
4Add the sugar and lemon juice to the pot with the fruit.
5Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until the sugar is well combined.
6Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the fruit releases its juices and the sugar begins to dissolve.
7Place the pot over medium high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
8Once it reaches a full boil, reduce the heat to medium low and let it simmer.
9Cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the preserve thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
10To test if the preserve is done, place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes.
11Drop a spoonful of the preserve onto the cold plate and let it sit for 30 seconds.
12If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it is ready.
13If not, continue cooking for another 5 minutes and test again.
14Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using.
15Ladle the hot preserve into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace.
16Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal.
17Let the jars cool completely before storing.

🔧Equipment

Large heavy bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Jars with lids (half pint size)
Canning funnel
Tongs
Water bath canner (optional for shelf stable storage)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 5mg🌾Total Carbs: 90g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 80g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lower sugar version, you can reduce the sugar to 1 cup, but the preserve may be thinner. If you prefer a chunkier preserve, mash the fruit lightly with a potato masher before cooking. Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3 weeks.

Watch Video Of How Strawberry Fig Preserve Works

I hope you give this strawberry fig preserve a try. It is such a simple and rewarding recipe that fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma.

I love making a big batch in the summer and enjoying it all year long. It is perfect for spreading on warm biscuits or giving as gifts to friends and family.

For storage, keep the jars in a cool, dark place if you canned them, or in the refrigerator if not. To serve, just spoon out what you need and let it come to room temperature for easier spreading.

It is wonderful on toast, pancakes, or even stirred into yogurt. This preserve is always a hit at family gatherings and makes any breakfast feel special.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Fig Preserve

1. Can I use frozen strawberries or figs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but it may change the texture slightly. Frozen fruit releases more liquid, so you may need to cook the preserve a bit longer to achieve the right thickness. Thaw the fruit first and drain off any excess juice before using.

2. How do I know when the preserve is done cooking?

The best way to test is the cold plate test. Place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes, then drop a spoonful of the preserve onto it. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it is ready. You can also use a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 220°F.

3. Do I need to use pectin for this recipe?

No, you do not need to add pectin. Figs naturally contain enough pectin to help the preserve set. The combination of strawberries and figs creates a good gel, especially if you use slightly underripe figs which have more pectin.

4. How should I store the strawberry fig preserve?

If you process the jars in a water bath canner, they can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and use it within 3 weeks. If you skip the canning process, store the preserve in the refrigerator and use it within 2 months.

5. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to 1 cup, but the preserve will be less sweet and may be thinner. Sugar helps with preservation and texture, so if you reduce it significantly, the preserve may not last as long. You can also use a sugar substitute like honey or agave, but that will change the flavor and may affect the set.

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