If you adore the nostalgic flavor of a classic dessert, you are going to fall head over heels for this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe. It captures all the luscious, caramelized pineapple goodness and those cherry bursts that make the cake so irresistible, only now you can enjoy it spread over warm toast, dolloped on yogurt, or slathered on your favorite baked treat. This jam is a delightful twist that brings the spirit of a beloved cake into a versatile, pantry-friendly jar, ready to brighten breakfasts and snacks anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a star role, making the jam both vibrant and richly textured. These simple but essential ingredients work together to deliver that perfect balance of sweet, tart, and warmly spiced flavors.
- Crushed pineapple (20 oz): The juicy foundation that gives the jam its signature tropical sweetness and texture.
- Maraschino cherries (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds bursts of color and a subtle cherry sweetness that screams pineapple upside down cake.
- Maraschino cherry juice (2 tbsp): Intensifies the cherry flavor and adds a lovely rosy hue.
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Brightens the jam and balances out the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Warms up the flavor profile with cozy spice notes.
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Adds a gentle depth and complexity to the spiced aroma.
- Fruit pectin (1 box, 1.75 oz): Helps the jam set with that perfect spreadable consistency.
- Granulated sugar (4 cups): The essential sweetener that turns the fruit into luscious jam.
- Butter (1/2 tsp, optional): A little magic to reduce foaming and keep the jam smooth while boiling.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fruit and Spices
Start by placing the crushed pineapple along with its juice into a large saucepan. Toss in the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir everything together gently to marry those flavors before moving on. This mix creates the very essence of what makes this jam taste like the much-loved pineapple upside down cake.
Step 2: Add Pectin and Heat
Now sprinkle in the fruit pectin and stir thoroughly, making sure it dissolves evenly into the fruit mixture. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring it to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly so nothing sticks or burns. This step activates the pectin, which is essential for the jam’s delightful gelled texture.
Step 3: Sweeten and Boil Hard
Once boiling, add all the sugar at once and stir until it’s completely dissolved. If you’re using butter, add it now to help keep the foam to a minimum. Bring the mixture back to a vigorous rolling boil and let it boil hard for exactly one minute, stirring constantly. This ensures the jam thickens properly and achieves that glassy finish.
Step 4: Jar and Process
Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam sitting on top for a clear, glossy jam. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about a 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Carefully wipe the rims, seal with lids and bands, and place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. After processing, let the jars cool undisturbed and then check the seals to make sure your high-quality jam will keep perfectly.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
Garnishes
A charming way to elevate your jam is by topping dishes with a tiny sprig of fresh mint or a maraschino cherry. These garnishes echo the original cake’s look and add a fresh pop of color that brightens every bite. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted coconut is another delightful twist that complements the tropical flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This jam shines alongside warm, buttery toast and flaky biscuits for breakfast. It also pairs wonderfully with cream cheese on bagels or as an unexpected twist on classic peanut butter sandwiches. For dessert, spread it over pound cake or swirl into vanilla ice cream to recreate that familiar, luscious pineapple upside down cake experience in deliciously new ways.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the spoon! Use this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe as a glaze for roasted ham or grilled chicken for a sweet and tangy flavor boost. Fill thumbprint cookies with it for delightful treats or mix a spoonful into your smoothie bowl for that iconic cake taste without the carbs. Its versatility means you get to play with textures and dishes while enjoying the classic flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once opened, keep your jam refrigerated and use within a month to enjoy its fresh, vibrant flavor. The airtight seal before opening helps it stay perfect on your pantry shelf for up to a year—giving you plenty of time to enjoy or gift this homemade treasure.
Freezing
If you want to keep your jam even longer, you can freeze it. Use freezer-safe containers leaving some headspace for expansion. When properly frozen, the jam maintains its flavor and quality for up to six months. Thaw gently in the refrigerator before use.
Reheating
When you want to warm your jam for glazing or spreading, simply heat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until it loosens up. Avoid boiling again to preserve the beautiful jam texture and fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
You absolutely can! Just be sure to finely crush fresh pineapple and measure out the juice to maintain the right moisture level. Fresh pineapple also offers a brighter, tangier flavor that some folks adore in this jam.
What if I don’t have fruit pectin on hand?
Fruit pectin is essential for achieving that perfect jelly-like consistency. Without it, the jam may stay more syrupy rather than spreadable. If you’re in a pinch, look for natural pectin substitutes like apple peel or use commercial pectin alternatives designed for jams.
Can I skip the maraschino cherries or cherry juice?
The cherries and their juice add signature flavor and color that evoke pineapple upside down cake. You can omit them, but the jam will lose some authenticity in taste. Try substituting with a bit of fresh or frozen cherries if needed.
Why is butter added during cooking?
The little bit of butter helps reduce foam during boiling, which makes skimming easier and results in a clearer jam. It’s optional but highly recommended if you dislike foamy jam textures.
How long does this jam take to set?
Once processed and cooled, the jam generally sets within 24 hours. If it’s still too runny after that, chilling it in the fridge overnight often helps it firm up perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe is a true labor of love that takes a cherished dessert and transforms it into a universally loved spread. Whether you’re a jam connoisseur or a pineapple upside down cake fanatic, giving this recipe a try is sure to bring joy and comfort to your kitchen. So spoon it out, share it around, and let those classic flavors make every bite a celebration.
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 beloved flavors of the classic dessert in a sweet, spreadable jam. Combining crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, warm spices, and fruit pectin, this homemade jam is perfect for toast, biscuits, or as a glaze for baked goods. The recipe includes a simple canning process to preserve the jam, making it easy to enjoy year-round.
Ingredients
Fruit and Flavorings
- 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
Jam Preparation
- 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 together the crushed pineapple with its juice, chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Add Pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin thoroughly to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Add Sugar and Butter: Add the granulated sugar all at once into the boiling mixture and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the butter if using to reduce foaming.
- Boil Hard: Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and continue to boil hard for 1 full minute while stirring constantly to activate the pectin and thicken the jam.
- Remove Foam: Remove the saucepan from heat and skim off any foam from the surface to ensure a clear jam.
- Jar the Jam: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, then seal jars with sterilized lids and bands.
- Process Jars: Place the jars in a boiling water bath and process for 10 minutes to safely preserve the jam.
- Cool and Store: Remove jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a towel or rack. Check seals before storing in a cool, dark place.
Notes
- This jam tastes just like pineapple upside down cake and pairs beautifully with toast, biscuits, or as a glaze for baked goods.
- For deeper flavor, caramelize the pineapple slightly in a pan before adding the pectin.
- Using butter helps reduce foaming during boiling, making for easier cleanup.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
