If you adore the nostalgic flavors of a classic dessert but want it in a jarable, spreadable form, this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Bursting with the sweet juiciness of crushed pineapple, the cherry’s bright pop, and warm hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, this jam captures the essence of that beloved cake with none of the fuss. It’s a luscious, tropical treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or adding a special twist to your favorite baked goods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this jam is delightfully straightforward because each ingredient plays its own crucial role in building that unmistakable Pineapple Upside Down Cake flavor. From the juicy fruit pieces to the spices and pectin, each element adds texture, sweetness, or that signature tropical-tart balance.
- Crushed Pineapple (20 oz): The star of the show, providing sweetness, acidity, and that unmistakable pineapple flavor.
- Maraschino Cherries (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds vibrant color and bursts of sweet cherry flavor that mimic the classic cake garnish.
- Maraschino Cherry Juice (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the cherry essence and adds a touch of tanginess.
- Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Balances the sweetness with a fresh citrus zing to brighten the jam.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Warms the flavor profile, contributing that cozy spice note reminiscent of the cake’s base.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds an aromatic, slightly nutty background note that rounds out the spices.
- Fruit Pectin (1.75 oz box): Essential for setting the jam, ensuring it achieves that perfect spoonable consistency.
- Granulated Sugar (4 cups): Sweetens and helps in the jam’s natural preservation.
- Butter (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Helps reduce foaming during cooking for a clearer jam.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fruits and Spices
Start by pouring the crushed pineapple along with its juice into a large saucepan. Add the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend sets the foundational flavors, marrying tropical sweetness with a little warmth and tartness that will truly evoke the Pineapple Upside Down Cake experience.
Step 2: Stir in the Fruit Pectin
Mix in the fruit pectin thoroughly until well incorporated. Pectin is the magic agent that helps transform these juicy ingredients into a spreadable, gelled jam, so make sure it’s evenly spread throughout before heating the mixture.
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the contents to a full rolling boil while stirring constantly. This intense boil is critical for activating the pectin and thickening the jam later.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Boil Hard
Once boiling vigorously, add the granulated sugar all at once. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. If you’re using butter, add it now to help minimize foaming. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and allow it to boil hard for exactly 1 minute, stirring continuously. This step ensures proper thickening.
Step 5: Remove Foam and Jar the Jam
After boiling, remove the pan from heat and skim off any foam that has risen to the surface. Ladle the hot jam directly into sterilized jars, leaving about a 1/4 inch headspace at the top to allow for expansion. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids and bands, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safe preservation.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
Garnishes
This jam shines on its own but pairing it with simple garnishes can elevate your serving. Think of a sprig of fresh mint or a light dusting of toasted coconut flakes to complement the tropical notes. These little touches add visual interest and a delightful layering of flavors.
Side Dishes
The jam is fantastic on warm toast or buttered biscuits for breakfast, but it also pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta. Serving it alongside yogurts or pancakes allows the jam’s rich pineapple and cherry flavors to brighten the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond spreading, try drizzling this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe over vanilla ice cream or using it as a glaze for baked ham or roasted pork dishes. You can also swirl it gently into cake batters or frosting for a unique dessert twist that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once opened, store the jam in the refrigerator where it will keep fresh for up to three weeks. The flavors may even deepen after a few days, so don’t hesitate to plan ahead for using it throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to preserve a batch without canning, this jam freezes beautifully. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion. When properly frozen, it can last for up to six months without losing its delicious flavor.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy, gently warm the jam on the stove or in the microwave to loosen it up if it has thickened too much. Stir well before serving to bring out its glossy, spreadable texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be substituted but for a consistent texture and perfect set, canned crushed pineapple in juice is often preferred. If using fresh, be sure to finely chop it and adjust the juice content accordingly.
Why do I need to boil the jam so vigorously?
The full rolling boil ensures that the pectin activates properly to set the jam. It also helps dissolve the sugar fully and evaporate excess moisture for the right consistency.
Is it necessary to use the boiling water bath for sealing?
Yes, if you want to store your jam on the shelf safely, processing jars in a boiling water bath kills any bacteria and creates a vacuum seal that preserves the jam for long-term storage.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Reducing sugar can affect the jam’s ability to set and its shelf life. For best results, stick to the recommended amount or use sugar substitutes designed for jam-making with caution.
What should I do if my jam doesn’t thicken?
If the jam doesn’t set after cooling, it may need additional pectin or a longer boil. You can reheat the mixture with extra pectin following the product instructions or enjoy it as a fruit sauce.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe is a delightful twist on a familiar favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. It captures all the sunshine and sweetness of the classic dessert in a versatile jar, making your breakfasts and snacks something truly special. So go ahead and dive into making it—you’re going to love every spoonful.
Print
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 6 half-pint jars
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam captures the delightful flavors of the classic dessert in a versatile jam form. Combining crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, and warm spices, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, glazing baked goods, or adding a tropical twist to your favorite snacks. The recipe includes canning instructions for long-term storage.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 box (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foaming)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix the crushed pineapple with its juice, chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir in the fruit pectin thoroughly to prepare the mixture.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil while stirring constantly to avoid burning and ensure even heat distribution.
- Add Sugar: Add the granulated sugar all at once and stir continuously until it dissolves completely in the fruit mixture. If using, add butter now to help reduce foaming during boiling.
- Boil Hard: Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and maintain this vigorous boil for 1 minute while stirring constantly to activate the pectin and thicken the jam.
- Remove Foam: Take the pot off the heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface for a clear, high-quality jam.
- Jar the Jam: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids and bands.
- Process Jars: Process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper preservation and sealing.
- Cool and Store: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Check seals before storing the jam in a cool, dark place for future enjoyment.
Notes
- This jam tastes just like pineapple upside down cake and pairs beautifully with toast, biscuits, or even as a glaze for baked goods.
- For deeper flavor, you can caramelize the pineapple slightly before adding pectin.
- Adding butter helps reduce foam during boiling, resulting in clearer jam.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized and sealed to prevent spoilage.
