Pineapple Jam is a tropical, tangy-sweet preserve that brings sunshine to your breakfast table. Made with fresh pineapple, a hint of cinnamon, and zesty lemon, this easy homemade jam is perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or gifting in cute little jars. Best of all? You only need a handful of ingredients and less than an hour to make it!
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Sweet and tangy flavor with a touch of spice from cinnamon.
- No pectin needed—natural fruit and lemon do the work.
- Quick and easy—ready in under 40 minutes.
- Versatile: perfect for breakfast, desserts, or holiday gifts.
- Kid-approved and a great way to use ripe pineapple.
What Is Pineapple Jam?
Pineapple jam is a tropical fruit preserve made by cooking fresh pineapple with sugar and lemon until thick and glossy. Unlike traditional jams that often require pectin, pineapple contains enough natural pectin to thicken beautifully on its own. This jam is popular in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, often served with toast, pastries, or used in pineapple tarts. It’s a simple way to capture the bright, bold flavor of pineapple all year round.
Pro Tips for the Best Pineapple Jam
- Use ripe, sweet pineapple for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Grate the lemon zest finely to avoid bitterness.
- If you prefer a chunky jam, blend only half of the mixture.
- For extra depth, add a pinch of ground ginger or vanilla.
- Always sterilize your jars before filling to ensure longer shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple in juice (not syrup), but fresh will deliver a more vibrant flavor and better texture.
How do I know when the jam is thick enough?
Dip a spoon into the jam and let it cool slightly. Run your finger through it—if it leaves a clear path, it’s ready.
Is this jam shelf-stable?
If properly jarred in sterilized containers and sealed while hot, it can be stored in the pantry. For long-term storage, refrigerate or freeze.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can slightly reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative and thickener.
What can I serve pineapple jam with?
Spread it on toast, muffins, or pancakes. It’s also delicious as a glaze for chicken or pork, or as a cake filling.
How to Store Pineapple Jam
Once your pineapple jam has cooled completely, store it in sterilized glass jars with tight-fitting lids. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For best flavor and texture, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave if needed.
How to Freeze Pineapple Jam
To freeze, let the jam cool completely, then spoon it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about ½ inch of headspace for expansion. Label and date each container. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Ingredients
How to Make Pineapple Jam
;Resize,width=712;)
Peel the pineapple, cut it into chunks, and remove the woody core.
Peel the pineapple, cut it into chunks, and remove the woody core.
;Resize,width=712;)
In a saucepan, add pineapple chunks, sugar, lemon juice, zest, and cinnamon.
In a saucepan, add pineapple chunks, sugar, lemon juice, zest, and cinnamon.
;Resize,width=712;)
Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
;Resize,width=712;)
Use an immersion blender (or regular blender, in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
Use an immersion blender (or regular blender, in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
Return the jam to the saucepan and cook for another 5–10 minutes until thickened.
Return the jam to the saucepan and cook for another 5–10 minutes until thickened.
Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and place upside down to cool. Once cooled, flip upright and store.
;Resize,width=767;)
