Ingredients
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5 medium ripe bananas, sliced
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1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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3 tablespoons lemon juice
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½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
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Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- In a large saucepan, combine bananas, pineapple (with juice), sugar, coconut, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- As the mixture cooks, the bananas will break down and the spread will thicken about 15–20 minutes.
- Once thick and jam-like, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (if using).
- Allow to cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition (Per 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sugar: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 10mg
What Is Monkey Butter?
Monkey Butter is a tropical fruit spread made from bananas, pineapple, and coconut. Despite the funny name, it’s not made with any actual butter the “butter” in its name refers to its smooth, spreadable texture. It’s naturally sweet, bright, and flavorful, perfect for those who love fruit preserves with a twist.
How to Use Monkey Butter
There are countless delicious ways to enjoy Monkey Butter:
- Spread on toast or English muffins for a quick tropical breakfast.
- Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles instead of syrup.
- Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity upgrade.
- Serve over ice cream or cheesecake for a fun dessert.
- Fill cupcakes or sandwich cookies for a sweet surprise.
Tips for Making the Perfect Monkey Butter
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your spread will be.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice: It adds brightness and helps preserve the color and flavor.
- Stir often: Prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
- Cool before storing: Allow it to reach room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
- Short-term storage only: Monkey Butter is not safe for long-term canning because of its low acidity and banana content.
Variations to Try
- Coconut Rum Monkey Butter: Add 1 tablespoon coconut rum after cooking for a tropical twist (adults only!).
- Mango Monkey Butter: Replace half the pineapple with mango chunks for a fruity fusion.
- Chunky Monkey Butter: Stir in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips after cooling for a fun texture.
- Spiced Monkey Butter: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in sealed glass jars for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezer: Spoon into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Canning note: This recipe is not recommended for water bath canning because bananas are low-acid fruits. Always refrigerate or freeze for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it called Monkey Butter?
Because it’s made with bananas a fruit famously loved by monkeys!
2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure to include some juice or water so the mixture doesn’t burn.
3. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but it may affect the texture and shelf life slightly. You can substitute part of it with honey or coconut sugar.
4. How can I thicken my Monkey Butter?
If it’s too runny, cook it a few minutes longer until it reaches a jam-like consistency.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Monkey Butter is one of those unique recipes that surprises everyone who tries it. Sweet, creamy, and tropical it’s like spreading a little sunshine on your breakfast.
Serve it with toast, pancakes, or even cakes for a fun, fruity twist. Once you taste this blend of banana, pineapple, and coconut, you’ll never want to go back to plain jam again.
Bring tropical bliss to your kitchen with this easy Monkey Butter recipe it’s a jar full of joy!
