Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Approximately 3 cups (24 servings)
Ingredients
- 1 kg fresh ripe pineapple, peeled and chopped
- 700 g granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
Wash, peel, and remove the core from the pineapple. Cut it into small chunks and blend until smooth or leave it slightly chunky if you prefer a textured jam.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the pineapple puree into a large heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add the sugar, lemon juice, salt, and lemon zest if using. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Begin Cooking
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as the sugar dissolves completely. Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low.
Step 4: Simmer the Jam
Allow the jam to simmer gently for 35–40 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking or burning. As the moisture evaporates, the mixture will gradually thicken and develop a glossy appearance.
Step 5: Test for Doneness
Place a small spoonful of jam onto a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push it gently with your finger. If the surface wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam is ready. If it remains runny, continue cooking for another 5–10 minutes before testing again.
Step 6: Add Vanilla
If desired, stir in the vanilla extract during the final minute of cooking for additional flavor.
Step 7: Cool the Jam
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the jam to cool for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to distribute the fruit evenly.
Step 8: Store
Carefully spoon the warm jam into clean, sterilized glass jars. Seal tightly and allow the jars to cool completely before refrigerating.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Jam
- Choose ripe, sweet pineapples for the best natural flavor.
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent scorching.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even heat distribution.
- Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor and helps preserve the jam.
- For smoother jam, blend the pineapple completely before cooking.
- For chunkier jam, pulse the fruit briefly instead of pureeing it.
- Sterilize jars properly to maximize shelf life.
- Refrigerate after opening and always use a clean spoon when serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pineapple jam is delicious served with:
- Toast
- English muffins
- Croissants
- Pancakes
- Waffles
- Yogurt
- Cheesecake
- Ice cream
- Thumbprint cookies
- Cake fillings
Storage Instructions
Store unopened sterilized jars in a cool, dark place if properly canned. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3 to 4 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (approximately 2 tablespoons)
- Calories: 55
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Potassium: 35 mg
- Fiber: 0.4 g
- Sugar: 13 g
- Vitamin C: 8 mg
- Calcium: 4 mg
- Iron: 0.1 mg