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
Scale
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.
