This is a recipe so simple it barely even qualifies as a recipe. Making pineapple jam is all about simmering delicious fruit, adding sweetness, and well, that’s pretty much it. The jam is delicious itself, on toast or with a scoop of ice-cream, but you can also spice it up with some chopped chili or fresh mint leaves.
Step by Step Guide to Making Pineapple Jam
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
Peel the pineapple completely, removing the eyes and core.
Grate the pineapple to yield about 4 cups (800 grams) of pineapple pulp. 
Step 2: Cook the Pineapple
Place the grated pineapple pulp and 1 cup (240 ml) of water into a saucepan.
Cook on medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The pineapple should become soft and tender.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Lime Juice
Once the pineapple pulp has softened, stir in 2 cups (400 grams) of sugar and the freshly squeezed lime juice.
Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Simmer to Jam Consistency
Cook the mixture on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes.
Stir frequently until the jam thickens and the liquid reduces significantly. To test readiness, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate; the jam should hold its shape.
Step 5: Store the Jam
Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars with tight-fitting lids.
Allow the jam to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.
Store refrigerated for up to 3 months.
Pineapple Jam – FAQ
Why is my jam runny?
Cook the jam longer to evaporate excess liquid until desired consistency.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but sugar helps preserve the jam. If reducing sugar, refrigerate and consume quickly.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh pineapple is preferred. Canned pineapple will alter the texture and taste.
How do I know when the jam is set?
Perform the plate test by placing jam on a chilled plate; if it sets, the jam is ready.
Can pineapple jam be frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to 6 months in airtight containers.
How to Make Pineapple Jam
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 4 cups 1x
- Diet: Omnivore, Gluten-Free
Description
Homemade pineapple jam is surprisingly simple. This 4-ingredient recipe results in a sweet and tangy spread perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cups (237 ml) water
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large pineapple (about 4 cups/800 g) pineapple
- 2 limes juice
- Red chili, chopped (optional)
- Fresh mint, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple
- Peel the pineapple completely, removing the eyes and core. Grate the pineapple to yield about 4 cups (800 grams) of pineapple pulp.
- Cook the Pineapple
- Place the grated pineapple pulp and 1 cup (240 ml) of water into a saucepan. Cook on medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The pineapple should become soft and tender.
- Add Sugar and Lime Juice
- Once the pineapple pulp has softened, stir in 2 cups (400 grams) of sugar and the freshly squeezed lime juice. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer to Jam Consistency
- Cook the mixture on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently until the jam thickens and the liquid reduces significantly. To test readiness, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate; the jam should hold its shape.
- Store the Jam
- Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars with tight-fitting lids. Allow the jam to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Store refrigerated for up to 3 months.
Notes
- For a smoother jam, use a food processor to puree the cooked pineapple before adding the sugar.
- If you don’t have limes, substitute with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, but the flavor will be slightly different.
- To increase shelf life, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes after cooling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 1
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the pineapple need to be fully ripe to make jam?
Yes, use fully ripe pineapple for the best natural sweetness. Underripe pineapple is too tart and requires more added sugar to balance, and the flavor won’t be as round.
How do you know when pineapple jam has reached the right consistency?
Spoon a small amount onto a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it wrinkles slightly when you push it with your finger, it’s set. If it runs, keep cooking and test again.
Do you need to add commercial pectin to pineapple jam?
Pineapple is naturally low in pectin, so adding commercial pectin helps it set reliably. Without it, you’ll need to cook the jam longer to reduce it to a spreadable consistency.
Love pineapple but have never made jam with it before. Tried it and it was fantstic!
Crazy delicious on toast with some butter!! Thank you!
My sister love to cook this Jam, she makes it all the time!
Made this, and I liked it a lot. Definitely trying the chili version next!!
Hi thanks for the recipe, so good! I have made it three times now!
Wow it is so simple and deliciouc!
Works nicely…yummy jam….used pulp left over from juicing….thsnks
Can I use un ripe pineapple to make this jam?
Wong
Yes, ripe pineapple works too!
Excellent
How many is the serving
About three cups!