These Strawberry Fig Preserves Recipe (without pectin) are made with only 4 simple ingredients and will take you less than 30 minutes to cook. This easy recipe will help you achieve perfectly preserved figs to enjoy for days.
I'm excited to share this delicious Strawberry Fig Preserves Recipe with you!
Every fall, I look forward to Fig season, and I anxiously watch them show up at the grocery stores. If you are a fig lover like me, you will understand me! 😊
These simple yet incredibly flavorful preserves are a true testament to the beauty, taste, and versatility of seasonal produce.
Growing up in Venezuela, it was common to have a fig tree in your backyard and see them blossom into beautiful figs. Luckily, even here in the upper Midwest, California grown figs can be found during a short period of time and this recipe is my favorite way of preserving them.
This recipe was inspired by my other Figs Preserves recipe on this site and is featured this Crostini with Strawberry-Fig Preserves Appetizer
Other fruit recipes you might enjoy:
This small-batch recipe is intended to be for refrigerated preserves. I'll take you through the step-by-step process of creating these sweet and tangy preserves perfect for spreading on toast, topping your favorite desserts, or even gifting to friends and family.
If you are looking for canned preserves to store at room temperature. I recommend the excellent resources provided by my friend Kathy in her food blog Beyond the Chicken Coop. Kathy has exceptional content around preserving food!
Jump to:
- What is the difference between Jam and Preserves?
- Equipment you will need
- Ingredients and Substitutions
- Instructions on how to make Strawberry Fig Preserves
- Cleaning and Sterilizing Jars for Filling and Storing
- Uses for Strawberry-Fig Preserves:
- How to convert these preserves into Strawberry Fig Jam recipe.
- Recipe Variations
- Storage and Freezing
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Other Spreads and Sauces you may like
- Other Latin indulging recipes
- 📖 GET THE RECIPE! 🍽️
What is the difference between Jam and Preserves?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's clarify the distinction between JAM and PRESERVES.
Both are delicious spreads made from fresh fruit, sugar and sometimes pectin. JAM is a smooth, spreadable fruit mixture made with crushed or pureed fruit, while PRESERVES retain the chunks or pieces of fruit, creating a more rustic and chunky texture. This strawberry-fig preserves recipe falls into the latter category, maintaining the integrity of the fruit pieces and offering a delightful contrast in textures.
If you prefer your spread with slightly chunky bits of fruit, this strawberry fig preserve recipe is the way to go! The combination of larger pieces of fig paired with strawberries are just the right combination of flavors and textures.
I also include instructions on converting this recipe into a Strawberry-Fig Homemade Jam below.
Equipment you will need
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- A large saucepan or large pot (stainless steel preferred)
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- Lemon zester
- Glass canning jars and lids (I use half pint jars)
- Potato masher or Food Processor (optional) if you want a smoother texture.
Ingredients and Substitutions
For this strawberry-fig preserve, you will need the following simple ingredients:
See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for quantities.
- FRESH STRAWBERRIES hulled and cut into small pieces.
- FRESH FIGS stemmed and cut into small pieces (approximately 16 small pieces). I like smaller pieces because they cook more evenly.
- WHITE SUGAR – The amount of added sugar in a recipe can affect the shelf life since sugar acts as a preservative. Preserves with less sugar, like this low-sugar recipe, may result in a shorter shelf life than traditional fruit spreads that contain more sugar. I kept the sugar content just right, so they are not overly sweet, thus I recommend keeping these preserves refrigerated. Brown Sugar: You can replace some or all white sugar with brown sugar for a richer, caramelized flavor. Brown sugar will add slightly more moisture to the mixture.
- LEMON JUICE AND LEMON ZEST - These add a delicious citrus flavor and natural pectin.
Instructions on how to make Strawberry Fig Preserves
If you are making small-batch preserves for the first time, you will appreciate the simplicity of this recipe!
Here are the steps you need to know to make the perfect strawberry fig preserves recipe.
STEP 1: Prepare the Fruit: Begin by prepping the strawberries and figs.
Wash, hull, and cut the strawberries into small pieces (approximately 16 small pieces). Wash the figs, remove the stems, and cut each into small pieces (about 16 small pieces).
STEP 2: Combine the Ingredients:
In a large saucepan, place figs, strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir gently to coat the fruit evenly.
STEP 3: Cook on Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, lower the heat to medium and continue cooking uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. The fruit will break down and soften, and the mixture will thicken.
STEP 4: Adjust Sugar to Taste: Taste the preserves and adjust the sugar level according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter jam, add more sugar gradually, stirring until dissolved.
STEP 5: Check for consistency: The fruit softens and slightly dissolves as it cooks, creating a lovely rustic texture. If you prefer the preserves to be a little softer, use a potato masher or do a few whirls with an immersion blender to gently break down the pieces of fruit.
Cleaning and Sterilizing Jars for Filling and Storing
- Sterilize Jars and Lids: Even though these small-batch preserves are meant to be kept only refrigerated, it is always recommended to sterilize the glass jars and canning lids to ensure proper preservation.
- Wash the jars and lids thoroughly in hot, soapy water.
- Fill the jars with boiling water, allowing them to sit for 10 minutes. Drain the hot jars and allow them to air dry completely until ready to use.
- Fill the Jars: Fill the hot sterilized jars with the preserves, leaving a 1/4 inch headspace (0.6 cm). Remove any air bubbles by running a knife or spatula along the insides of the jars. Wipe the rims of the jars with a moist paper towel to ensure a clean seal.
- Cool and Store in the refrigerator: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating them.
- This recipe yields three 8 oz jars.
So, there you have it, a fun and creative process for creating homemade strawberry fig Preserves with fresh berries and figs. With simple ingredients and a little love, you can enjoy homemade preserves on everything from breakfast to dessert to this Crostini appetizer. Experiment with the recipe variations and make it uniquely your own. Happy eating!
Uses for Strawberry-Fig Preserves:
Beyond the classic toast and crackers, explore these creative uses for your strawberry-fig preserves.
- This Crostini with Cheese and Strawberry-Fig Appetizer
- Cheese Platter Addition: Elevate your cheese platter by adding a dollop of strawberry-fig preserves alongside brie, goat, or blue cheese and these Sweet and Spicy Pecans with Chipotle.
- Hot Biscuit Topping: Drizzle a generous amount of preserves over hot biscuits for a sweet and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
- Ice Cream Sundae Topping: Transform your ice cream sundae into a gourmet treat with a drizzle of strawberry-fig preserves, adding freshness and flavor.
- Glaze for Grilled Chicken or Pork: Brush grilled chicken or pork with a glaze made by mixing 3 tablespoons of strawberry-fig preserves and 2 tablespoons of water, enhancing the meat's natural sweetness with a touch of tanginess.
- Filling for Muffins or Cakes: Incorporate strawberry-fig preserves into the muffin or cake batter for flavor and moisture.
- Creamy Complement: Mix it into cream cheese for a delectable fruit dip or bagel spread.
- Yogurt Parfait (my favorite!): Mix in 2 tablespoons of strawberry-fig preserves into plain yogurt and sprinkle with your favorite granola or even chia seeds for a "super-powers healthy treat"!
- They make a fantastic Gift! Make a second batch and give them away as gifts!
How to convert these preserves into Strawberry Fig Jam recipe.
For those seeking a delicious strawberry fig jam without added pectin, follow these simple modifications:
- Increase the sugar: Since sugar provides thickness, increase the recipe from 1 to 2 cups of sugar.
- Cooking time: You may have to cook the mixture longer, approximately an extra 15-20 minutes to reach the right thickness of jam.
- Use a food processor to transform the mixture into a smooth jam-like consistency. After the cooked mixture has cooled down, blend in a food processor for a few seconds until the desired texture.
Recipe Variations
- Maple Syrup: Replace half of the white sugar with maple syrup for a richer, caramelized flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Add one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to enhance the preserves with tanginess and sophistication. It'll give your spread a lovely depth of flavor.
See this Fig Only version of this preserves recipe on my website!
Storage and Freezing
Storing and freezing your strawberry fig preserves properly ensures they remain fresh and delicious.
To ensure the longevity of your homemade strawberry-fig preserves, follow these simple storage guidelines:
- Refrigerated Storage: Properly sealed in glass jars (best way) or airtight containers and refrigerated, the preserves should last up to 3 weeks. Label the jars with the date they were made.
- Freezer Storage: To extend the shelf life of your preserves, freeze them in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. Leave a 1/2-inch headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Freeze the preserves uncovered until they are completely solid, then add the lid. Freezing in glass jars is also acceptable, if you follow the same procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, peeling the figs is not necessary. The thin skin is tender and will soften further during the cooking process and contribute to the overall texture of the preserves. The skin is packed with flavor and natural pectin, helping to thicken the preserves.
However, if you prefer a smoother texture, peel the figs before quartering them. Otherwise, they will soften wonderfully during cooking.
Yes, you can double this recipe without any issues. Since it does not use added pectin, doubling the amount of ingredients will not affect the final texture or consistency of the preserves. I recommend using a larger pot to ensure that the fruit cooks uniformly and the preserves thicken consistently throughout.
Other Spreads and Sauces you may like
Other Latin indulging recipes
📖 GET THE RECIPE! 🍽️
Easy Strawberry-Fig Preserves Recipe (no pectin)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 half pint jars (8 oz each) 1x
- Category: Spreads
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Latin
Description
These Strawberry Fig Preserves Recipe (without pectin) are made with only four simple ingredients and will take less than 30 minutes to cook. This easy recipe will help you achieve perfectly preserved figs to enjoy for days. Try them on toast, cheese platters, as a filling or topping for desserts, or even as a gift!
Equipment needed:
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- A large saucepan or large pot (stainless steel preferred)
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- Lemon zester
- Glass canning jars and lids (I use half pint jars)
- Potato masher or Food Processor (optional) if you want a smoother texture.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of FRESH STRAWBERRIES.
- 1 pound of FRESH FIGS.
- 1 cup of WHITE SUGAR.
- 2 tablespoons of LEMON JUICE.
- 1 teaspoon of LEMON ZEST.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit: Begin by prepping the strawberries and figs. Wash, hull, and cut the strawberries into small pieces (approximately 16 small pieces). Wash the figs, remove the stems, and cut each into small pieces (about 16 small pieces).
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients: In a large saucepan, place figs, strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir gently to coat the fruit evenly.
Step 3: Cook on Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, lower the heat to medium and continue cooking uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. The fruit will break down and soften, and the mixture will thicken.
Step 4: Adjust Sugar to Taste: Taste the preserves and adjust the sugar level according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter jam, add more sugar gradually, stirring until dissolved.
Step 5: Check for consistency: The fruit softens and slightly dissolves as it cooks, creating a lovely rustic texture. If you prefer the preserves to be a little softer, use a potato masher or do a few whirls with an immersion blender to gently break down the pieces of fruit.
Notes
Brown Sugar as a substitute: You can replace some or all white sugar with brown sugar for a richer, caramelized flavor. Brown sugar will add slightly more moisture to the mixture.
How to convert these preserves into Strawberry Fig Jam recipe:
For those seeking a delicious strawberry fig jam without added pectin, follow these simple modifications:
- Increase the sugar: Since sugar provides thickness, increase the recipe from 1 to 2 cups of sugar.
- Cooking time: You may have to cook the mixture longer, approximately an extra 15-20 minutes to reach the right thickness of jam.
Use a food processor to transform the mixture into a smooth jam-like consistency. After the cooked mixture has cooled down, blend in a food processor for a few seconds until the desired texture.
To ensure the longevity of your homemade strawberry-fig preserves, follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigerated Storage: Properly sealed in glass jars (best way) or airtight containers and refrigerated, the preserves should last up to 3 weeks. Label the jars with the date they were made.
- Freezer Storage: For extended storage, freeze the preserves in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.
Leave a 1/2-inch headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Freeze the preserves uncovered until they are completely solid, then add the lid. Freezing in glass jars is also acceptable if you follow the same procedure. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Storing and freezing your strawberry fig preserves properly ensures they remain fresh and delicious.
Recipe variations:
- Maple Syrup: Replace half the white sugar with maple syrup for a richer, caramelized flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Add one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to enhance the preserves with tanginess and sophistication. It'll give your spread a lovely depth of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 109
- Sugar: 25.5 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 28.1 g
- Fiber: 2.1 g
- Protein: 0.6 g
DK says
I love this Strawberry Strawberry Fig Preserves recipe! It's so simple yet flavorful, I am obsessed with the combined sweetness and tanginess of it! Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Agreed! They are just perfect together. ❤️😊
Nicole says
This strawberry fig preserves recipe was amazing!! So easy to make and so delicious!!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Thanks, Nicole! We love easy and delicious, right!? 😉 Thanks for leaving your review. ❤️
Criss says
I made the Strawberry-Fig Preserves, and they turned out perfect! So delicious and easy to make without pectin. Thanks for the recipe!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
So glad to hear! It's a simple way to enjoy those seasonal figs for days. Happy you enjoyed the easy recipe! 🙂
Liz says
Such a delicious combination of flavors! These preserves were delicious on my morning bagel this week!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
I love to hear that. Making mornings more indulgent. 🙂 Happy you enjoyed the recipe.
Krystle says
I'm obsessed with this on my homemade charcuterie boards. Such a good combo!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Yay! Agree. Tastes amazing with cheese, crackers, and compliments any charcuterie board very nicely. 🙂
Deb says
I used this as a marinade for grilled tofu steaks. So delish and so tropical, we loved it.
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Genius. Love this creative twist on using the recipe. 🙂
Brittany F. says
This combo of figs and strawberries was so satisfying! I followed the instructions and the preserves turned out perfectly.
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Hi Brittany,
I'm so thrilled the instructions were clear and helped you achieve preserves-making success!
Helen M Fern says
Makes a great filling for stuffed french toast!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Oh... yum. That's next-level delicious!
Helen at the Lazy Gastronome says
I never would have thought to put figs with strawberries, but it's delicious!! I love the texture and the two flavors melded together. A perfect topping for morning toast!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Hi Helen,
This combo really was a revelation, and I'm so glad you liked it too! 🙂
Sonja says
This popped up right on time for Strawberry season here in Ireland. Unfortunately that doesn't fall into the painfully short fig season, so I used dried figs and a little more water instead. Worked a treat and I had it on a cheeseboard, where it vanished in no time.
Gotta make more of it now, so I can have some with my morning toast.
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Hi Sonja,
I'm so glad it vanished on your cheeseboard - that's the ultimate compliment for any appetizer!!
I agree, fresh fig season seems so short where I live too. I only have a 4-week window to buy fresh figs in August, and then they are gone.
Thanks for trying the recipe and for the review!
Claudia says
Just made some Easy Strawberry-Fig Preserves – so simple and delicious! Perfect for spreading on toast or adding to yoghurt.
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Easy and delicious is the ultimate combo. 🙂
JC says
Absolutely delicious! I loved how few ingredients were required. Will be making again!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Fewer ingredients, more flavor - that's the motto! So glad you enjoyed the recipe. Thanks for trying it!
Ashley says
This is a go-to summer recipe for me! Most recently I made some whipped feta and spooned some of the preserves over the top and drizzled with my best balsamic vinegar. It was so good served with crostini!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Wow, that sounds like a flavor explosion in the best way possible! The ultimate summer appetizer - fresh, tangy, creamy.
Thanks for the serving idea! 🙂
Liz says
This was such an easy and delightfully delicious recipe!! It will be a joy to start our mornings with some of these preserves on our toast, pancakes, and more!!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Glad it was easy and delicious for you, and for starting your day with a smile. 🙂
Thanks for the review, Liz!
Sabine says
I never would have thought to combine strawberries with figs, but what a great idea. It was really delicious and yumm.
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
You and me both! Fig and strawberry might seem like an unexpected pair, but they're a true match. 🙂
Nora says
Such delicious strawberry fig preserves! Used it as a topping for our homemade no-bake cheesecakes! Yum!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Hi Nora,
That sounds like the perfect cheesecake if you ask me. 😉 Yum!
Marie-Pierre Breton says
This is a great addition to a brunch table! Fantastic and so fresh!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Absolutely spot on! Glad you liked the recipe.