If you adore the nostalgic charm of a classic dessert with a modern twist, the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe is going to be your new favorite kitchen adventure. This delightful jam captures the luscious flavors of fresh pineapple caramelized with brown sugar and warm spices, all transforming into a spreadable treat that tastes just like your beloved upside down cake. Whether slathered on toast, swirled into yogurt, or paired with cheese, this jam brings sunshine and sweetness into every bite, making it an irresistible pantry gem.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the bright, juicy pineapple that provides vibrant flavor and texture to the brown sugar that delivers that signature caramel note. The spices add warmth without overwhelming, and optional additions like butter and cornstarch help tailor the jam’s richness and consistency exactly to your liking.
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped: Fresh pineapple keeps the jam bright and juicy, offering natural sweetness and delightful texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes essential to replicating that classic cake flavor.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Balances sweetness and enhances caramelization.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides a bright citrus tang that cuts through the sugar’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a cozy warmth reminiscent of traditional pineapple upside down cake spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty spice that complements the pineapple perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the jam for a luscious, spreadable consistency.
- 1/4 cup water: Used to create the cornstarch slurry and adjust jam thickness.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): Adds silkiness and extra richness to the final jam.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Pineapple and Sugars
Start by placing your finely chopped pineapple into a medium saucepan, and add both the brown and white sugars. Toss in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently stir everything together so that the pineapple is evenly coated and the spices mingle beautifully with the sugars.
Step 2: Simmer Until Sugars Dissolve
Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the mixture to slowly come to a simmer. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. In about 5 minutes, the sugars will melt and combine with the pineapple juices, creating that gorgeous caramel base that makes this jam sing.
Step 3: Thicken the Jam
While your pineapple mixture is simmering, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this into the saucepan, stirring constantly. This step is key to achieving that perfect jam consistency—thick, yet still spreadable. Keep stirring as it cooks for another 5 to 7 minutes until your jam looks glossy and thickened.
Step 4: Blend for Smoothness (Optional)
If you prefer a less chunky jam, now is the time to use an immersion blender to gently puree the mixture right in the pot. This creates a velvety texture reminiscent of the silky cake layers in an upside down cake, but feel free to keep it chunky if you love bits of pineapple in your spread.
Step 5: Finish with Butter
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter while the jam is still warm. This simple addition adds a luxurious richness that makes the jam taste incredibly indulgent—almost like you’re biting into a slice of your favorite dessert instead of just a jam.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Allow the jam to cool slightly, then transfer it to sterilized jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate. This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for 2 to 3 weeks, or you can preserve it with canning techniques for longer storage to enjoy year-round.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your jam’s presentation by garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, a few fresh pineapple chunks, or even a tiny dusting of cinnamon. These little touches will make your spreads and desserts look as good as they taste, adding texture and inviting aromas.
Side Dishes
This jam is endlessly versatile. Serve it alongside warm biscuits or freshly baked scones for a comforting breakfast, or pair it with a creamy cheese platter featuring brie or cream cheese for an elegant appetizer. It also shines spooned over vanilla ice cream or dolloped onto pound cake slices for a quick, homemade dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try swirling the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe into your morning yogurt or smoothie bowls. You could even roast pineapple glazed with this jam or use it as a filling in thumbprint cookies. The possibilities are endless and so delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, keep your jam stored in airtight sterilized jars in the refrigerator. Proper storage ensures that the flavors remain vibrant and the jam maintains its luscious texture for up to three weeks. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination, keeping your jam fresh and safe to enjoy.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe for an extended time, freezing is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace as the jam will expand. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving to restore its perfect consistency.
Reheating
To enjoy the jam warm, simply heat it gently on the stove over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring between intervals. Warm jam pairs wonderfully with toast or even as a drizzle over pancakes, bringing out those rich caramelized pineapple flavors at their best.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple is preferred for its bright flavor and texture, you can substitute canned pineapple if needed. Just be sure to drain it well and reduce the added water slightly to maintain the jam’s thickness and avoid it becoming too runny.
Is the cornstarch necessary?
The cornstarch helps thicken the jam for a spreadable consistency, but if you prefer a looser jam or plan to use it as a syrupy topping, you can omit it. Just be prepared for a thinner texture.
How spicy is this jam?
This jam has a warm, subtle spice thanks to the cinnamon and nutmeg, but it is not spicy in the heat sense. It’s a gentle spice that complements the pineapple’s sweetness.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well if you want to make a larger batch. Just make sure to use a pot large enough and adjust cooking times slightly, as more volume may take longer to thicken.
How long will this jam last if canned properly?
If you process and seal your jars using standard canning procedures, the jam can last up to a year stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and enjoy within a few weeks.
Final Thoughts
Embracing the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe in your kitchen is like holding a jar full of sunshine and nostalgia. It’s wonderfully simple yet packed with complex flavors that bring a little magic to everyday meals and treats. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself reaching for that spoon straight from the jar again and again!
Print
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 to 1 1/2 cups
- Category: Jam
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jam is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, transforming it into a luscious spread perfect for toast, biscuits, or desserts. Made with fresh pineapple, warm spices, and a touch of vanilla, this jam cooks on the stovetop to a thick, flavorful consistency. Optional cornstarch ensures ideal thickness, while butter adds richness for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Thickening Agent (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Finishing
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the finely chopped pineapple, brown sugar, white sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, continuing to stir until the sugars completely dissolve, approximately 5 minutes.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually add this slurry to the simmering pineapple mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the jam thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Optional Blending: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to gently blend the jam to your desired consistency. This step can be skipped if a chunkier jam is preferred.
- Add Butter: Once the jam has thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in butter if using. This adds a luscious richness to the jam.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars. Seal the jars and refrigerate. The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 weeks or processed in a water bath canner for longer shelf life.
Notes
- For thicker jam without cornstarch, simmer longer to reduce liquid, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Use ripe, sweet pineapples for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a sugar-free version, substitute sugars with suitable sweeteners, adjusting quantity to taste.
- This jam makes a delicious topping for yogurt, pancakes, or ice cream.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized for safe preservation if canning.
