Monkey Butter is a rich, creamy fruit spread made with bananas, pineapple, coconut, and a hint of citrus. Despite its name, it contains no butter. It’s perfect for toast, pancakes, waffles, biscuits, yogurt, oatmeal, or even as an ice cream topping. This easy homemade recipe is naturally sweet, packed with tropical flavors, and ready in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Monkey Butter is one of those old-fashioned fruit spreads that tastes like sunshine in a jar. The combination of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, toasted coconut, and fresh lemon juice creates a sweet, tangy spread that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Unlike many store-bought fruit spreads, this homemade version contains real fruit and no artificial preservatives. It’s a fantastic way to use overripe bananas and makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
Makes: About 3 cups
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Potato masher or fork
- Measuring cups
- Sterilized glass jars with lids
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Peel the bananas and mash them until mostly smooth. Leave a few small chunks if you prefer a little texture.
Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the spread from becoming too runny.
Zest and juice the lemon.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine:
- Mashed bananas
- Crushed pineapple
- Sugar
- Coconut
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon (if using)
- Pinch of salt
Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 30–40 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
As it cooks, the mixture will thicken and become glossy.
Step 4: Check the Consistency
To test if the Monkey Butter is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Let it sit for 30 seconds. If it holds its shape and wrinkles slightly when pushed with a spoon, it’s done.
If it’s still runny, cook for another 5–10 minutes.
Step 5: Fill the Jars
Carefully spoon the hot Monkey Butter into sterilized glass jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace.
Wipe the rims clean and seal with lids.
If you plan to store it for an extended period, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes following safe home-canning guidelines. Otherwise, let the jars cool and refrigerate.
Serving Ideas
Monkey Butter is delicious on:
- Toast
- English muffins
- Biscuits
- Croissants
- Pancakes
- Waffles
- French toast
- Bagels
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
- Cottage cheese
- Ice cream
- Cheesecake
- Crepes
It also makes a tasty filling for cakes, cupcakes, or thumbprint cookies.
Tips for Success
- Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor.
- Drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid a watery spread.
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent scorching.
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor.
- Toast the coconut lightly before adding it for a deeper, nuttier taste.
- Let the spread cool completely before refrigerating.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Canned: Properly processed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Flavor Variations
Tropical Monkey Butter
Add ½ cup diced mango or papaya for extra tropical flavor.
Spiced Monkey Butter
Increase the cinnamon and add a pinch of nutmeg and ground ginger.
Coconut Lover’s Version
Use ½ cup toasted coconut instead of ¼ cup.
Honey Sweetened
Replace half of the sugar with honey for a richer flavor.
Rum-Inspired Version
Add 1 teaspoon rum extract after cooking for a Caribbean-inspired twist.
Nutrition Information (Per Tablespoon)
- Calories: 45
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.3g
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Monkey Butter?
Despite the name, Monkey Butter contains no butter. The name comes from its banana-rich flavor and smooth, buttery texture.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes. You can reduce the sugar to about ¾ cup, but keep in mind that it helps preserve the spread and contributes to its thick texture.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Absolutely. Finely chop or crush about 2 cups of fresh pineapple and drain any excess juice before using.
Is Monkey Butter gluten-free?
Yes, the spread itself is naturally gluten-free. Just serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers if needed.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes. Unsweetened shredded coconut works well and gives a more natural coconut flavor.
Final Thoughts
Monkey Butter is a fun and flavorful homemade fruit spread that brings together the sweetness of bananas, the tang of pineapple, and the richness of coconut in every spoonful. Whether you’re spreading it on warm toast, swirling it into yogurt, or using it as a dessert topping, this tropical treat is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and a bright, fruity taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand all year long.
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