Pineapple Upside Down Jam

This delightful pineapple jam transforms the classic dessert flavors of pineapple upside-down cake into a spreadable treat that will bring warmth and sunshine to your breakfast table all year round. The combination of fresh pineapple with brown sugar creates that signature caramelized flavor, while maraschino cherries add pops of color and sweet nostalgia.

I first created this jam when looking for unique homemade gifts for a family reunion. The jars disappeared within minutes, and now I get requests to bring it to every gathering. My niece even spreads it between vanilla cake layers for an instant pineapple upside-down cake flavor.

Ingredients

• Fresh pineapples: Crushed to create the perfect texture and provide natural pectin for thickening
• White granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the pineapple and helps with preservation
• Brown sugar: Gives that characteristic caramelized flavor reminiscent of the cake topping
• Fresh lemon: Adds necessary acidity for safe canning and brightens the overall flavor profile
• Water: Helps create the proper consistency during cooking
• Maraschino cherries: Deliver those iconic red jewels familiar in the classic dessert
• Almond extract: Introduces a subtle bakery note that elevates this jam beyond ordinary pineapple preserves

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Canning Equipment:

Gather all water bath canning supplies including mason jars, lids, and rings. Wash everything in hot soapy water, then sterilize jars by keeping them in simmering water. Place lids in hot water according to manufacturer instructions. Fill your canning pot with water and begin heating it to a boil while you prepare the jam.

Cook The Base Mixture:

Combine crushed pineapple, white sugar, brown sugar, lemon slices with juice, and water in a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Stir thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly. Heat the mixture slowly over medium heat, stirring constantly until all sugar has completely dissolved. This patient approach prevents crystallization and ensures a smooth texture.

Reach Gelling Point:

Increase heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Continue cooking rapidly while stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Watch for thickening and test for gelling point by placing a small amount on a chilled plate and checking if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger. This typically takes about 15 minutes but may vary depending on your stove and pineapple's moisture content.

Add Final Ingredients:

Remove pot from heat once gelling point is reached. Skim off any foam that has accumulated on the surface using a metal spoon. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and almond extract, stirring just enough to distribute evenly throughout the jam without breaking down the cherry pieces too much.

Fill And Process Jars:

Working quickly while jam is still hot, ladle mixture into prepared hot jars leaving exactly 1/4 inch headspace at the top. Run a non-metallic utensil around the inside edge of each jar to remove any air bubbles. Wipe rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure proper sealing. Apply lids and screw on bands until finger tight. Process filled jars in boiling water bath for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude if necessary.

Rest And Store:

After processing, remove jars from canner and place on a towel-lined surface away from drafts. Leave undisturbed for 24 hours to properly set and seal. Check seals before storing by pressing the center of each lid. If it springs back, refrigerate and use within 3 weeks. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

This jam reminds me of Sunday afternoons at my grandmother's house, where pineapple upside-down cake was always in rotation. The first time I served this jam at a family brunch, my uncle closed his eyes and said it transported him right back to her kitchen. That moment convinced me some recipes are worth the extra effort for the memories they preserve.

Perfect Pineapple Selection

Selecting the right pineapple makes all the difference in this recipe. Look for fruits with a golden color extending up from the base and a sweet, fragrant aroma at the stem end. The pineapple should feel heavy for its size and have slightly yielding flesh when pressed. Avoid pineapples with soft spots or those that smell fermented. While you can use canned pineapple in a pinch, fresh provides superior flavor and natural pectin for proper setting.

Creative Serving Ideas

This versatile jam goes far beyond morning toast. Try it warmed slightly and drizzled over vanilla ice cream for an instant dessert upgrade. Use it as filling between yellow cake layers or as a glaze for ham during the last 15 minutes of baking. For an elegant appetizer, spoon over cream cheese and serve with butter crackers. My personal favorite is spreading it on buttermilk biscuits still warm from the oven, where the jam melts slightly into all the nooks and crannies.

Gift-Worthy Presentation

Transform these jars into memorable gifts with simple embellishments. Cut small circles from gingham fabric to cover lids, securing with decorative ribbon or baker's twine. Create custom labels with vintage pineapple illustrations or classic cake motifs. For holiday gifting, pair a jar with a pretty spreader or vintage teacup. I often include a handwritten recipe card for my favorite pineapple upside-down cake along with the jam, suggesting recipients use some as filling between layers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes this jam unique?

The addition of brown sugar, almond extract, and maraschino cherries gives this jam a rich flavor reminiscent of pineapple upside down cake.

→ How do I know when the jam has reached the gelling point?

You can test the gelling point by placing a small amount of jam on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it is ready.

→ What equipment do I need for water bath canning?

You will need mason jars, lids, rings, and a water bath canner. Ensure all equipment is sanitized before use.

→ How long does the jam need to rest after canning?

Allow the jam to sit undisturbed for 24 hours after processing. This ensures the jars seal properly and the flavors meld together.

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries if desired. Chop and pit them before adding to the jam for a fresh twist.