Caramelized figs with maple syrup is something I absolutely adore. I can eat them any day, in any possible way. I always support eating raw fruits (where appropriate), but having caramelized fruit is the second best way to enjoy fruit. There are secret ingredients in this recipe that make all the flavours literally burst and come to surface (don’t worry, I won’t leave you hanging – we’ll get there).
I’ve always found ways to sneak figs into my cooking – on salads, stuffed into croissants, drizzled over ice cream, or even on top of a warm melty brie.
But recently, I got inspired by a chef who suggested caramelizing them, and let me tell you – it is absolutely one of the best ways to have them served. It is so easy, it takes just minutes, and makes your kitchen smell heavenly. So, let’s do this.
Why You’ll Love Caramelized Figs
First, because they are outrageously delicious! Caramelizing the figs in a flavoured herb butter or along a fresh rosemary, will only bring you to heaven and back. The other good thing about caramelized figs, is that you can use them in so many different meals – from desserts, appetizers, salads, breakfast pancakes… you name it. Insanely versatile.
Did I mention that caramelizing the figs is so incredibly easy and fun? I firmly believe that the best food is also the simplest, and caramelized figs prove this theory every single time.
If you ever find yourself drowning in more figs than you can possibly eat (if that’s even a thing, honestly), this is the ultimate way to give them a second, even better life. You won’t waste a delicious fruit and plus you’ll have an incredible tasty treat to serve. A win-win!
What Equipment You Need
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Pan – Just grab your favourite one. Non-stick, cast iron, whatever makes you happy – if it holds figs and butter, you’re good to go.
What You’ll Need
Figs – Fresh black figs are what I prefer. Simply wash them, dry and cut in halves. No fancy prep at all.
Maple syrup – This is the sweetener that I most frequently use in my cooking, however it is absolutely fine to replace with honey, if you prefer. Both do wonders.
Herb butter – This is my secret weapon. I always keep a stash in my fridge (and freezer). It’s just fresh butter mixed with herbs, like my favourite rosemary butter, which also happens to be the best way to save leftover herbs before they go sad in the fridge. Check out my easy herb butter recipe if you want to stock up, too. No herb butter? No problem! Just use plain butter and throw in a sprig of fresh rosemary into the pan.
And that’s it. Three ingredients, only. That’s all you need for this ridiculously easy, delicious recipe. Told you, it was almost too good to be true.
Caramelized Figs With Maple Syrup
Course: CondimentsCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy6
servings5
minutes10
minutes15
minutesLearn how to caramelize figs in a pan with butter, rosemary, and maple syrup for a rich, golden treat. This easy recipe makes the perfect breakfast topping for yogurt, pancakes, brie, and more.
Ingredients
6-8 fresh black figs
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
30 grams herb butter (or plain butter and fresh rosemary)
optional - lemon zest
Directions
- Wash, dry and cut the figs in halves.
- Place a pan over medium heat and melt that glorious herb butter. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing.
- Place the figs cut-side down and let them cook in the butter for about 5–7 minutes, until the bottom turns golden and slightly crispy. Optional: Toss some lemon zest for extra flavour. Resist the urge to poke them constantly, good things take time.
- Gently turn the figs over and caramelize the other side for another 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and drizzle the warm figs with maple syrup (or honey). The residual heat will work its magic, melting everything together into a sticky, caramelized heaven.
- Transfer the figs into a plate, making sure to scoop up every last drop of that sweet syrup. And, that's it!
Notes
- Remember: Before you drizzle the maple syrup or honey, make sure the heat is off. You don't want those natural sugars to burn and become bitter. Keeping the pan on the hot stove will be enough to melt the sugar into the figs.
How to Serve the Caramelized Figs
The possibilities are endless. These sticky-sweet caramelized figs are basically a flavour upgrade for anything!. Here are some of my favourite ways to serve them:
- As a topping to your breakfast pancakes or waffles – Who wants a boring syrup?
- Over a warm brie – Nothing makes the cheese board as happy as most delicious sweet syrupy figs on top of gooey brie.
- Drizzled over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt parfait.
- Tossed into a granola breakfast bowl – for a little breakfast treat.
- Piled onto bruschetta – To get a sweet, savory, crunchy appetizer.
Honestly, just let your creativity run wild. If it sounds good, it probably is good.
How To Store Leftovers
The best way to store these caramelized figs is to pop them in a jar and store them in the fridge for up to a week. That way, you’ll have a sweet, flavour-packed topping ready to spice up your meals anytime.
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Hi, I’m Biba, the creator of Chick in Apron!
As a busy mom and food blogger, I am passionate about making cooking fun and stress-free. I share simple, delicious recipes that are quick and easy to prepare, along with helpful kitchen hacks to save you time.
So, let’s turn cooking into something you enjoy with tasty meals and handy tips to make kitchen tasks a breeze! ✨
