Fig jam substitutes
Fig jam substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Other fruit jams
Same amount as the fig jam
Similar fruit spreads with different flavors.
The best substitutes for fig jam are other fruit jams, honey, maple syrup, or a mixture of dried figs and water blended smooth.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- spreading
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of fig jam | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Other fruit jamsspreading | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Honeyspreading | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Maple syrupspreading | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Dried figs + waterall uses | 1 cup dried figs + ¼ cup water per 1 cup fig jamWorks | Works |
| 5 | Date pastespreading | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Apricot jamspreading | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Other fruit jams
different taste, similar texture
Similar fruit spreads with different flavors.
- Best for
- spreading, glazing, baking, sauces
Choose jams with similar sweetness and texture.
Honey
different taste, similar texture
Natural sweetener with similar viscosity.
- Best for
- spreading, glazing, baking, sauces
Different flavor but similar sweetness.
Maple syrup
different taste, similar texture
Natural sweetener with rich, complex flavor.
- Best for
- spreading, glazing, baking, sauces
Different flavor but similar sweetness and texture.
Dried figs + water
similar taste and texture
Homemade substitute using dried figs.
- Best for
- all uses, fresh flavor, customizing sweetness
Soak figs in water, then blend until smooth.
Date paste
different taste, similar texture
Sweet paste made from dates.
- Best for
- spreading, baking, sauces, vegan recipes
Similar sweetness and texture.
Apricot jam
different taste, similar texture
Similar fruit jam with tangy flavor.
- Best for
- spreading, glazing, baking, sauces
More tangy than fig jam.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use other fruit jams instead of fig jam?
Yes, other fruit jams can work as substitutes, though they will have different flavors. Choose jams with similar sweetness and texture for best results.
What's the difference between fig jam and fig preserves?
Fig jam is smooth and spreadable, while fig preserves contain whole or large pieces of fruit. Both can be used similarly, but preserves have more texture.
Can I make fig jam at home?
Yes, you can make fig jam by cooking fresh figs with sugar and lemon juice until thickened. You can also make a quick version using dried figs and water.
Why is fig jam so popular in Mediterranean cooking?
Figs are native to the Mediterranean region and have been used in the area's cuisine for thousands of years. Fig jam adds sweetness and fruit flavor to many traditional dishes.
Tips for substituting fig jam
6 tips- Fig jam adds sweetness and fruit flavor to dishes
- Fig jam pairs well with cheese, especially blue cheese
- Fig jam can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Fig jam works well as a glaze for meats and vegetables
- Fig jam can be used in baking to add moisture and flavor
- Store fig jam in the refrigerator after opening