If you’re looking to create a luscious, sweet, and nutty delight that captures the essence of fresh figs paired with crunchy hazelnuts, this Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the rich sweetness of ripe figs with the warm, toasty flavor of hazelnuts, it’s a versatile treat that brightens up breakfast, adds magic to cheese boards, and even shines as a glaze for roasted dinners. The balance of lemon’s brightness and a hint of cinnamon rounds this preserve into something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients is all it takes to make this Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe a standout. Each element plays a key role, from sweetness and acidity to texture and aroma.
- Fresh ripe figs (2 pounds, stems removed and chopped): The heart of this recipe, delivering natural sweetness and a velvety texture.
- Granulated sugar (1½ cups): Essential for sweetness and helps preserve the jam’s shelf life.
- Honey (¼ cup): Adds floral notes and depth beyond plain sugar, enhancing flavor complexity.
- Water (½ cup): Assists in cooking down the fruit evenly without burning.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the preserve and balances sweetness while helping to set the jam.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Provides a citrusy punch that elevates the fruitiness.
- Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon, optional): Introduces a warm spice note that complements both figs and hazelnuts beautifully.
- Toasted hazelnuts (¾ cup, chopped): Adds crunch and a rich, nutty flavor, making this preserve uniquely textured and satisfying.
How to Make Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Simmer the Fruit
Start by placing your chopped figs, sugar, honey, water, lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional cinnamon in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until all the sugar dissolves. This is where the magic begins, as the fresh figs start to soften and release their juices, melding with the honey’s floral sweetness.
Step 2: Cook Until Thickened
Reduce the heat to low, letting the mixture cook for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. As it simmers, the preserve gradually thickens and the figs break down, creating that perfect jammy texture. Taking your time here really rewards you with deep, rich flavors.
Step 3: Mash to Desired Texture
Once you’re happy with the thickness, gently mash the figs with a potato masher or a sturdy spoon. Whether you like it chunky for rustic bites or smoother for spreading, this step lets you customize the texture to your preference, helping to release more of the fig’s lusciousness.
Step 4: Stir in the Hazelnuts
Next, fold in the toasted, chopped hazelnuts and cook together for an additional 5 minutes. This final step infuses the preserves with toasty nutty notes while adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft fruit base.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Remove the pan from heat and allow the preserve to cool slightly. Transfer it into sterilized jars, sealing tightly. For the very best flavor, let the preserves rest in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before opening. This resting period lets all the flavors meld perfectly, giving you a preserve that’s bursting with depth and warmth.
How to Serve Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra toasted hazelnuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top of your preserves when serving. Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs also pair wonderfully, especially if you’re using it alongside cheese or meat, adding an aromatic lift that’s both rustic and elegant.
Side Dishes
This Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe shines alongside creamy soft cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or ricotta. It’s delicious dolloped on a warm slice of crusty bread or toasted sourdough for breakfast or snacks. It also pairs beautifully with roasted pork, chicken, or even drizzled over grilled vegetables for a savory-sweet complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Try swiping this preserve onto a cheese board, or use it as a glaze on roasted meats for an unexpected burst of flavor. For brunch, serve it on top of pancakes or waffles drizzled with a little extra honey. You can even stir it into plain yogurt or oatmeal for an everyday treat that feels special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your jars of Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe are sealed and chilled, store them neatly in the refrigerator. They’ll keep fresh and flavorful for up to three weeks, making it easy to enjoy your homemade creation over time without worry.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of your preserves even further, freezing is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen preserves can last several months, ready to pull out and thaw for whenever you crave that taste of fig and hazelnut magic.
Reheating
When you’re ready to serve from frozen or simply want to soften chilled preserves, warm a small amount gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This brings back that wonderfully spreadable texture without compromising the fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh figs?
While fresh figs provide the best flavor and texture, dried figs can be used if rehydrated properly, though the preserves will have a different consistency and deeper, caramel-like notes.
Is it necessary to toast the hazelnuts before adding?
Toasting enhances the hazelnuts’ flavor and adds crunch, so it’s highly recommended. Raw hazelnuts will taste milder and less aromatic in the preserves.
Can I omit the cinnamon?
Absolutely! Cinnamon is optional and adds warmth, but skipping it won’t detract from the overall deliciousness of the preserves.
How long should I wait before eating the preserves after making them?
For the best flavor, allow the preserves to sit sealed in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! This Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about making your own preserves at home, especially when they’re as delicious and versatile as this Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked a little jar of sunshine and comfort. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or adding it to your favorite dishes, it promises a luscious burst of flavor every time. Give it a try, and soon you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Fig and Hazelnut Preserves Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: About 2½ cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This Fig and Hazelnut Preserves recipe offers a luscious blend of fresh ripe figs and toasted hazelnuts, sweetened naturally with honey and sugar. Perfectly spiced with lemon zest and a hint of cinnamon, these preserves make a delightful condiment that pairs beautifully with soft cheeses, toast, or as a glaze for roasted meats. Made on the stovetop, this Mediterranean-inspired vegan and gluten-free spread is both delicious and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Preserves Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh ripe figs, stems removed and chopped
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- ¾ cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped figs, granulated sugar, honey, water, lemon juice, lemon zest, and ground cinnamon if using. Stir the mixture well to integrate all ingredients.
- Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved. This helps dissolve the sugar evenly and prepares the fruit for cooking.
- Cook and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking the mixture for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the figs will break down, and the mixture will thicken into a jam-like consistency.
- Mash the Figs: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently mash the figs to your preferred texture, whether chunky or smooth. This step enhances the spreadability of the preserves.
- Add Hazelnuts: Stir the chopped toasted hazelnuts into the simmering preserves and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This infuses the preserves with a toasty, nutty flavor and adds pleasing texture.
- Cool and Jar: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the preserves cool slightly. Then transfer the mixture into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and refrigerate.
- Rest for Flavor: Allow the preserves to sit refrigerated for at least 24 hours before serving to develop the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Store the preserves in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- Serve with soft cheeses, spread on toast, or use as a glaze for roasted meats.
- For a smoother texture, pulse the preserves briefly with an immersion blender before adding the hazelnuts.
