Autumn is the time when so many wonderful fruits and vegetables are harvested. One thing I have been excited for is for my fig tree to start producing fruit. This year it wasn’t quite ready but I am still prepared with the perfect recipe for next when hopefully I will be able to pick my own figs in the early fall.
Figs themselves are a different kind of fruit. They are jelly like in the center and have a sweetness similar to honey but still taste like a berry. They are the perfect fruit to make jam with and can be preserved longer this way.
While you can always muddle the fruit into a cocktail, jams are another great way to add sweetness and flavor to a simple cocktail. If you like fruity gin cocktails that aren’t too sweet then you will enjoy this one.
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Bar tools you will need
For this cocktail you will need a shaker, a strainer, a jigger and a mesh strainer to double strain. Double straining will prevent any seeds from getting into the cocktail. If you don’t mind the seeds you can skip this step but I would recommend double straining for a smooth and refreshing cocktail.
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Do I need to use fig jam?
If you can’t find fig jam or don’t want to make it you can substitute any type of jam that you prefer. It will change the flavor but this simple cocktail would pair well with just about any type of jam.
How to make jam
To make your own simple jam add about 3-5 cups of your fruit, 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and mash the fruit. Bring to a boil and stir frequently until the mixture thickens. Allow your jam to cool and store in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks.
How to make simple syrup
You can buy simple syrup in most grocery stores but it’s also very easy to make at home with just two ingredients. Just heat equal parts water and sugar and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Allow to cool before using.
Sweetener alternatives
If you don’t have sugar available you can use honey, agave or even a sugar alternative to sweeten this cocktail.
What kind of gin to use?
I used Malfy gin for this one but you can use any gin that you prefer.
Fig and Jam Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin
- 1 teaspoon fig jam
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
- Shake until well chilled.
- Double strain into a glass with ice.
- Garnish with a fresh fig.
Video
🍹 Home Bar Supplies You Might Need: 🍹
Before you start whipping out the ingredients to make this drink, make sure you have these essential bar tools in your kitchen first (or shop for them here):
I was so excited to try this but it didn’t work for me. The fig jam congealed in the shaker so I just ended up with a gimlet. Any changes I can make to avoid this?
Hi Stacey, I am so sorry to hear that. I am wondering what kind of jam you used, did you make your own? One thing to try is to add ice last and give a quick shake and double strain. You can also try muddling a fig with simple syrup instead of using jam.
I used jarred jam. I will try shaking it first and then adding ice. Thanks for the reply🙂
Very much tasted like a gimlet/bee’s knees fusion and a tad sweet for my taste. If I were to make this again I’d use a very soft soft gin, no simple syrup, and caramelize a fig to garnish.
Made this tonight and loved it so much I made it again, and then texted it to a few gin-loving friends. SO GOOD!