Imagine spreading spoonfuls of sunshine on your morning toast—this is exactly what you get with Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam. Bursting with fruity sweetness and a hint of spice, this jam captures all the nostalgic flavors of the classic dessert but in a jar, ready to brighten any breakfast or dessert. With its vibrant golden hue flecked with cherries, every bite is equal parts cheerful and comforting, making this recipe a standout for both canning beginners and seasoned jam makers.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Jam:
- 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)

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam

Step 1: Combine All the Fruit and Spices

Start by adding the crushed pineapple (with its juice), chopped maraschino cherries, maraschino cherry juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to a large saucepan. Stir well to make sure the spices are evenly distributed—this is where the jam’s flavor starts to bloom.

Step 2: Stir in Fruit Pectin

Sprinkle in the fruit pectin and mix thoroughly until there are no lumps. This step is crucial for ensuring your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam sets to that perfect spreadable consistency.

Step 3: Bring the Mixture to a Boil

Set the saucepan over medium-high heat and stir frequently. As the mixture warms, those wonderful pineapple and cherry aromas will fill your kitchen. Bring everything up to a full rolling boil—the type Condiment.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Butter

Once boiling, add all the sugar at once and immediately give it a good stir until it completely dissolves. If you like your jam smooth and glassy, stir in the optional butter now. The mixture will get glossy and even more fragrant.

Step 5: Final Boil

Return everything to a full, vigorous boil and time it for exactly one minute—keep stirring constantly, as this is when the jam thickens. Skim off any foam from the top to keep your jars sparkly and beautiful.

Step 6: Jar the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids and bands, and prepare for the water bath.

Step 7: Process in Water Bath

Place the jars in a boiling water bath and process for 10 minutes. This extra step helps preserve your jam for months of enjoyment. Once cooled, check the seals and admire your work—you did it!

How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam

Garnishes

Give your jam a little extra pizazz by topping it with a maraschino cherry half or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest. For a “cakey” touch, a pinch of toasted shredded coconut on toast or a biscuit magnifies those classic dessert vibes.

Side Dishes

Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam with fresh buttermilk biscuits, toasted English muffins, or a slice of pound cake. It also shines alongside a soft, creamy cheese and cracker spread, bringing sweet and savory together in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try swirling the jam into Greek yogurt or breakfast parfaits for a tropical twist. For an unexpected treat, use it as a glaze over baked ham, or dollop a bit onto vanilla ice cream for dessert that echoes everyone’s favorite retro cake. Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam also makes a lovely gift—tie a ribbon around a jar and share a taste of sunshine with friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your sealed jars of jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam and use it within three weeks. Always use a clean spoon to scoop out servings, which helps preserve its freshness and delightful texture.

Freezing

If you prefer, you can freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers instead of canning. Just leave about half an inch of space at the top, as the jam will expand as it freezes. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for the freshest flavor and texture.

Reheating

You won’t need to reheat preserve-style jam, but if using as a glaze or sauce, gently warm the amount you need in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave it in 10-second increments. This brings back its smooth, spreadable quality without altering the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just finely chop fresh pineapple and include any juice collected for best results. You may need to adjust for sweetness, since canned varieties are typically sweeter.

How do I know if my jars are sealed properly?

Once jars are cool, press the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop or flex, your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam is sealed and ready for the pantry. If any lids didn’t seal, simply refrigerate and use those jars first.

What if I want a thicker or thinner jam?

For a firmer set, cook a minute longer or slightly increase the pectin. For a looser, syrupy texture, reduce the pectin just a bit or add an extra tablespoon of juice.

Can I make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam without pectin?

It is possible, though the jam will need longer boiling to set properly, and the texture may turn out softer. Pectin ensures the bright, consistent spoonable spread we all love.

Is this jam too sweet?

It is definitely sweet, just like the cake that inspired it. If you’d like to reduce sweetness, try using a low-sugar pectin and cutting down the sugar slightly, keeping in mind that altering sugar amounts can affect how well the jam sets.

Final Thoughts

If you love nostalgic flavors with a playful, homemade twist, you’ll fall for Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam. Make a batch and transform your breakfasts, desserts, and even savory dishes into something truly memorable—there’s really no wrong way to enjoy this jam!

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe

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4.9 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 6 half-pint jars 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam that captures the essence of the classic dessert in a spreadable form. This sweet and tangy jam is perfect for breakfast or as a glaze for your baked treats.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Jam:

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)

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Instructions

Prepare the Jam: In a large saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, cherries, cherry juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir in fruit pectin and mix well.
Boil the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, add sugar, and stir until dissolved. Boil hard for 1 minute.
Jar the Jam: Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving space at the top. Seal and process in a boiling water bath.
Cool and Store: Let the jars cool, check seals, and store for future use.

Notes

This jam mimics the flavors of pineapple upside down cake and complements various dishes.
For enhanced taste, consider lightly caramelizing the pineapple before adding pectin.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: Canning
Cuisine: American