Out of Fig jam, one case
Fig jam substitutes, case by case
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Apricot jam
Same amount as the fig jam
The best substitutes for fig jam are apricot jam (1:1 ratio), honey (1:1 ratio), or a homemade blend of dried figs and water (1 cup jam = 1 cup dried figs + ¼ cup water). For baking, date paste works excellently as a 1:1 substitute.
- Best for —
- Spreading on toast and crackers
One casethe full fig jam card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of fig jam |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apricot jamSpreading on toast and crackers | Same amount |
| 2 | HoneySpreading applications | Same amount |
| 3 | Dried figs + waterAll applications where you want true fig flavor | 1 cup dried figs + ¼ cup water per 1 cup fig jam |
| 4 | Date pasteBaking applications | Same amount |
| 5 | Maple syrupGlazing and basting | Same amount |
| 6 | Plum jamSpreading applications | Same amount |
Apricot jam
Similar sweetness, slightly more tangy
The closest substitute with similar sweetness and spreadable texture
- Best for
- Spreading on toast and crackers, Glazing meats and vegetables, Baking applications, Cheese pairings, Sauce making
- Texture
- Nearly identical
Apricot jam has a similar sweetness level and texture to fig jam, making it the most versatile substitute.
Honey
Floral and sweet
Natural sweetener with similar viscosity and golden color
- Best for
- Spreading applications, Glazing and basting, Sweetening sauces, Baking when you need liquid sweetness, Cheese boards
- Texture
- Similar viscosity
Different flavor profile but similar sweetness and spreadable consistency.
Dried figs + water
Authentic fig flavor
Homemade substitute that recreates the authentic fig flavor
- Best for
- All applications where you want true fig flavor, Customizing sweetness level, When you have dried figs available, Health-conscious cooking, Mediterranean dishes
- Texture
- Similar when properly blended
Soak dried figs in warm water for 30 minutes, then blend until smooth. Add more water if needed for desired consistency.
Date paste
Rich and caramel-like
Rich, sweet paste made from dates with similar texture and natural sweetness
- Best for
- Baking applications, Vegan recipes, Energy bars and snacks, Smoothies and shakes, Sweet sauces
- Texture
- Similar thick consistency
Date paste provides natural sweetness and similar texture, good for health-conscious cooking.
Maple syrup
Rich, complex sweetness
Natural sweetener with complex flavor and similar viscosity
- Best for
- Glazing and basting, Sweet sauces, Baking applications, Breakfast dishes, Dessert toppings
- Texture
- Similar liquid consistency
Maple syrup adds a distinctive flavor but works well in many applications where fig jam is used.
Plum jam
Sweet with slight tartness
Fruit jam with similar sweetness and slightly tart flavor
- Best for
- Spreading applications, Glazing, Baking, Sauce making, Cheese pairings
- Texture
- Similar spreadable consistency
Plum jam offers a good balance of sweetness and tartness, similar to fig jam's profile.
How it behaves in this recipe
Fig jam is a sweet, thick spread made from cooked figs that's popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It's commonly used for spreading on bread, glazing meats, pairing with cheese, and adding sweetness to both sweet and savory dishes. When substituting, consider the application - whether you need the authentic fig flavor or just a similar sweet, spreadable consistency.
Tips for substituting fig jam
10 tips- Fig jam pairs exceptionally well with blue cheese, goat cheese, and aged cheddar
- Use fig jam as a glaze for roasted meats, especially pork and chicken
- Fig jam adds moisture and sweetness to baked goods like muffins and quick breads
- For a savory twist, mix fig jam with balsamic vinegar and herbs for a glaze
- Store homemade fig substitutes in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
- When using dried figs, choose soft, plump ones for the best texture
- Fig jam works beautifully in both sweet and savory applications
- For a smoother texture, strain homemade fig puree through a fine mesh sieve
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla to enhance the flavor of fig substitutes
- Fig jam can be thinned with a little water or fruit juice if needed for specific applications
Notes on fig jam
- For a more tart flavor, try cranberry sauce or orange marmalade
- For a nutty flavor, try almond butter or tahini mixed with honey
- For a more exotic taste, try pomegranate molasses or rose petal jam
- For a healthier option, try mashed banana or apple butter
- For baking applications, try applesauce or pureed prunes
Questions
8 questionsWhat's the best substitute for fig jam?
Apricot jam is the best overall substitute for fig jam as it has similar sweetness, texture, and versatility. For authentic fig flavor, make your own using dried figs and water.
Can I use honey instead of fig jam?
Yes, honey works well as a substitute for fig jam in many applications, especially for spreading and glazing. It has similar sweetness and viscosity, though the flavor will be different.
How do I make fig jam from dried figs?
Soak 1 cup of dried figs in warm water for 30 minutes, then blend with ¼ cup of the soaking water until smooth. Add more water if needed for desired consistency.
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 and chunks.
Can I use date paste instead of fig jam?
Yes, date paste is an excellent substitute for fig jam, especially in baking and vegan recipes. It provides similar sweetness and texture with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
Why is fig jam 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 natural sweetness and fruit flavor to many traditional dishes.
Can I substitute other fruit jams for fig jam?
Yes, other fruit jams like apricot, plum, or even strawberry jam can work as substitutes, though they will have different flavors. Choose jams with similar sweetness levels for best results.
How long does homemade fig substitute last?
Homemade fig substitute made from dried figs will last in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks. Store it in an airtight container and check for any signs of spoilage before using.