Imagine the sweet, tropical aroma of pineapple wafting through your kitchen, as golden chunks transform into a luscious jam.
Making pineapple jam is incredibly simple, offering a cozy and indulgent treat that’s sure to become a household favorite.
As the sugar melts and mingles with the juicy pineapple and a hint of vanilla, you’ll savor the magic of this simmering delight.
Let’s bring this delightful condiment to life!
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Measuring cup
- 1 Jar with lid
Ingredients
- 1 Medium Pineapple, peeled and cored
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while making pineapple jam, follow this timeline:
- Preparation (15 minutes):
- Read the recipe thoroughly and gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients before starting.
- Peel, core, and chop the pineapple into small pieces. This is your initial prep work.
- Cooking (45 minutes):
- Place the chopped pineapple, sugar, and lemon juice into the saucepan.
- Start cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Allow the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to simmer for about 30 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the vanilla extract, stir well, and remove the saucepan from heat.
- Cooling and Resting (12 hours):
- Let the jam cool slightly before transferring it into a jar.
- Seal the jar with a lid and allow the jam to rest at room temperature for 12 hours to set properly.
Additional Time Considerations:
- Plan for a few extra minutes for reading the recipe and gathering supplies.
- Confirm you have a clean workspace and equipment ready, which may require some setup time before starting.
- Allocate time after the 12-hour resting period to store the jam appropriately.
Feel free to adjust the timeline as needed to suit your pace and kitchen setup.
Recipe Instructions
Chop the pineapple into small pieces using a knife and cutting board.
Place the chopped pineapple into a medium saucepan.
Add the granulated sugar and lemon juice to the saucepan.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon.
Once the sugar dissolves, let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes until thickened.
Add the vanilla extract and stir well to combine.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
Transfer the jam into a jar and seal with a lid.
Allow the jam to rest at room temperature for 12 hours to set properly.
Serving Tips
- Toast: Spread a generous layer of pineapple jam on a slice of warm toast for a sweet and tangy breakfast treat.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer pineapple jam with yogurt and granola for a delicious and invigorating snack.
- Cheese Platter: Pair the jam with a variety of cheeses on a platter to add a tropical twist to your cheese board.
- Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle the pineapple jam over vanilla ice cream for a simple yet delightful dessert.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Use pineapple jam as a topping for pancakes or waffles to elevate your brunch experience.
Storage
Store pineapple jam in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
For longer storage, consider canning or freezing the jam to preserve its flavor and texture.
Freezing
To freeze pineapple jam, transfer it to airtight containers, leaving space for expansion.
Label with the date and store for up to six months.
Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Reheating
To reheat pineapple jam, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat.
Stir consistently to avoid burning.
Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
Pineapple jam is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be enjoyed in various ways.
Spread it on toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or pair it with cheese for a delightful appetizer.
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a homemade treat that captures the tropical essence of pineapple.
The key is to use ripe pineapple to guarantee the best flavor and sweetness.
Remember to stir the mixture continuously to prevent burning and achieve a smooth texture.
Adjust the sugar level to your preference, and don’t hesitate to experiment by adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors further.
Once the jam is prepared, let it rest for 12 hours to set properly.
Enjoy your homemade pineapple jam and share it with friends and family for a taste of tropical delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pineapple Jam Be Made With Canned Pineapple?
You can definitely use canned pineapple. Just drain it well to avoid excess liquid. My friend once swapped fresh for canned, and the jam still turned out fantastic. A pinch of cinnamon can also add a lovely twist.
Is It Possible to Make Pineapple Jam Sugar-Free?
Yes, you can make it sugar-free by using a sugar substitute like stevia. I remember trying this once, and the key was balancing flavors with extra lemon juice and ripe pineapple for natural sweetness.
How Can I Ensure the Jam Has a Smooth Texture?
To guarantee a smooth texture, constantly stir the mixture while it simmers. I remember my first try; I didn’t stir enough, and it turned lumpy. Use a wooden spoon, and don’t rush the process!
What Are Some Flavor Variations for Pineapple Jam?
You can add ginger for a spicy kick or mix in some coconut for a tropical twist. My favorite is a hint of cinnamon; it reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen and adds a warm, comforting flavor.
How Long Does Homemade Pineapple Jam Last Unopened?
Unopened, it typically lasts up to a year if stored in a cool, dark place. From personal experience, homemade jams remind me of summer picnics. For longer freshness, make certain jars are sterilized before use and tightly sealed.
Pineapple Jam
Equipment
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Jar with lid
Ingredients
- 1 medium pineapple peeled and cored
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Chop the pineapple into small pieces using a knife and cutting board.
- Place the chopped pineapple into a medium saucepan.
- Add the granulated sugar and lemon juice to the saucepan.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon.
- Once the sugar dissolves, let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes until thickened.
- Add the vanilla extract and stir well to combine.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
- Transfer the jam into a jar and seal with a lid.
- Allow the jam to rest at room temperature for 12 hours to set properly.
Notes
