Late-Night Pineapple Canning: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hey ! How's it going? It’s Darcy from The Purposeful Pantry, and tonight, we’re working late—it's past 10 PM, but we’re on a mission. Our kitchen is hot and steamy, but it's all for a good cause: canning ripe and delicious pineapples.

Why Canning Pineapple?
Pineapples are incredibly sweet and delicious, but they need to be preserved before they go bad. By canning them, you can enjoy their tropical flavor year-round. Plus, it’s a great way to save money by buying pineapples in bulk when they’re in season.

The Tools You Need
Pineapple Cutter: This tool is a game-changer. It slices the pineapple and cuts it into chunks, making the process much easier and faster.
Sterilized Jars: Essential for preserving the pineapple safely.
Simple Syrup: Made with 12 cups of water, 5 cups of sugar, and a 1/4 cup of lemon juice to maintain the pineapple's vibrant color.
Lids and Rings: These need to be simmered in hot water to ensure they’re clean and ready for sealing.
Step-by-Step Pineapple Canning Process
Preparing the Pineapple:

Cut off the crown of the pineapple.
Use the pineapple cutter to slice and chunk the pineapple. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom to avoid losing juice.
Wash the pineapples thoroughly in cold water.
Making Simple Syrup:

Boil 12 cups of water with 5 cups of sugar and a 1/4 cup of lemon juice.
This syrup helps maintain the color of the pineapple and adds a touch of sweetness.
Sterilizing the Jars:

Sterilize your jars by boiling them in water.
Keep your lids and rings in simmering hot water until you’re ready to use them.

Filling the Jars:

Pack the pineapple chunks tightly into the jars without smashing them.
Fill the jars with the simple syrup, leaving about a 1/2 inch of headspace.
Clean the rims of the jars with hot water and vinegar to ensure a good seal.
Processing the Jars:

Place the filled jars into the canner and ensure they are covered with water.
Bring to a rolling boil and process for 25 minutes (adjust based on your elevation).

Turn off the heat and let the jars sit for 5 minutes before removing them from the canner.
Cooling and Storing:

Allow the jars to cool overnight in a draft-free place.
Check the seals the next day and store them in a cool, dark place.
Tips and Tricks

Core Placement: Ensure your cutter is centered over the core to avoid cutting through the bottom.
Cleanliness: Rinse your hands and tools frequently to prevent sticky messes.
Extra Juice: If you cut through the bottom, save the extra juice for smoothies or cocktails.

Final Thoughts
Canning pineapples is a fantastic way to preserve their sweet, tropical flavor. It’s a bit of a late-night task, but the results are worth it. Whether you’re making pineapple protein smoothies or simply enjoying the canned fruit, you'll be glad you took the time to preserve these delicious fruits.

Happy canning