Monkey Butter

Ultimate Monkey Butter Recipe & Guide

If you’re looking for a delicious, tropical fruit spread that’s easy to make and incredibly versatile, Monkey Butter is the perfect choice. This homemade banana-pineapple jam has the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and creaminess. Whether you spread it on toast, drizzle it over pancakes, or mix it into yogurt, Monkey Butter is guaranteed to elevate your meals with a burst of fruity flavor.

What Is Monkey Butter?

Monkey Butter is a sweet, tropical fruit spread made primarily from ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, sugar, coconut, and lemon juice. It has a smooth, jam-like consistency with a delightful balance of natural sweetness and citrusy brightness. Despite its fun name, there are no actual monkeys involved – it’s just a playful reference to its main ingredient: bananas!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this homemade Monkey Butter, gather these simple pantry staples:

• 4 ripe bananas (no spots) – Choose bananas that are fully yellow but not overly ripe to maintain the perfect sweetness and texture.
• 14 oz can of crushed pineapple (with juice) – Pineapple adds natural acidity and complements the banana flavor beautifully.
• 2 cups white sugar – Helps to sweeten and preserve the spread.
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened ground coconut (macaroon coconut) – Provides a subtle coconut flavor, enhancing the tropical taste.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (bottled or fresh) – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and extends shelf life.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Bananas

Start by peeling the bananas and slicing them into thin pieces. This helps them break down more quickly and evenly while cooking.

2. Combine the Ingredients

In a large nonstick saucepan, mix the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple (including its juice), sugar, ground coconut, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Bring to a Boil

Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir continuously to prevent the sugar from caramelizing too quickly or burning.

4. Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently. As it cooks, the bananas will dissolve, and the mixture will thicken into a jam-like consistency.

5. Cool & Store

Once your Monkey Butter has reached the perfect texture, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Transfer the mixture into airtight jars or containers and store in the refrigerator.

Ways to Enjoy Monkey Butter

Monkey Butter is an incredibly versatile spread that pairs well with many foods. Here are some great ways to enjoy it:

• On Toast – Spread it on warm toast for a tropical twist to your breakfast.
• Over Pancakes & Waffles – Drizzle it over your favorite morning treats for extra flavor.
• As a Dessert Topping – Use it as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or cheesecake.
• In Smoothies – Add a spoonful to your smoothie for a fruity flavor boost.
• As a Dip – Serve it with crackers or graham crackers for a quick snack.

Storage Tips

• Store Monkey Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks.
• If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it in small portions and thawing as needed.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Monkey Butter

• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, fresher taste.
• Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from burning.
• Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.
• For a richer texture, use a potato masher to break down the bananas further while cooking.
• Make a sugar-free version by replacing sugar with honey or a sugar substitute.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Naturally Sweet & Delicious – Made with real fruit, without any artificial preservatives.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for weeks, making it a great make-ahead spread.
• Kid-Friendly – A fun and healthy way to enjoy bananas and pineapples.

Enjoy this homemade Monkey Butter recipe and add a touch of tropical sweetness to your meals!