Monkey Butter
Monkey Butter is a sweet, tropical fruit spread made with bananas, pineapple, sugar, and lemon juice. Despite its name, it contains no butter at all. The name comes from the banana base and the rich, creamy texture that resembles a buttery spread. This old-fashioned favorite is especially popular in the Southern United States and is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or even using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
If you love fruit preserves with a tropical twist, Monkey Butter is a must-try recipe.
What Is Monkey Butter?
Monkey Butter is best described as a banana–pineapple jam. The bananas add natural sweetness and creaminess, while crushed pineapple brings brightness and a slight tang. Lemon juice balances the sweetness and helps preserve the spread. When cooked together, these simple ingredients transform into a thick, golden spread bursting with flavor.
It’s easy to make, requires no special equipment, and is a wonderful way to use ripe bananas.
Ingredients
-
4 ripe bananas, mashed
-
1 can (20 oz / 565 g) crushed pineapple, undrained
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Optional additions:
-
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
-
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit
Peel and mash the bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth. A few small chunks are fine and add texture.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (with juice), sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to fully combine.
3. Cook the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring often.
The mixture will thicken slightly and turn a glossy golden color.
4. Check Consistency
Monkey Butter thickens more as it cools. It should be thick but spreadable, similar to jam or fruit butter.
5. Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer to clean jars or airtight containers.
-
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
-
For longer storage, Monkey Butter can be frozen for up to 3 months
Ways to Use Monkey Butter
Monkey Butter is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
-
Spread on toast, English muffins, or biscuits
-
Spoon over pancakes or waffles
-
Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
-
Use as a cake or cupcake filling
-
Spread inside crepes or pastries
-
Serve alongside cheese on a dessert board
Its tropical flavor makes it especially delicious with coconut-based desserts or vanilla treats.
Tips for Best Results
-
Use ripe bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful the spread.
-
Stir often: This prevents scorching and ensures even cooking.
-
Adjust sweetness: If your pineapple is very sweet, you can slightly reduce the sugar.
-
Add-ins: Vanilla or cinnamon adds warmth and depth without overpowering the fruit.
Variations
-
Coconut Monkey Butter: Stir in ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes after cooking.
-
Spiced Monkey Butter: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
-
Lower Sugar Version: Reduce sugar to 1½ cups, though shelf life will be shorter.
Why You’ll Love Monkey Butter
Monkey Butter is easy, nostalgic, and full of tropical flavor. It’s a great alternative to traditional jams and a creative way to use ripe bananas. Whether you spread it on warm toast or use it in desserts, this sweet fruit butter is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Perfect for gifting, brunch spreads, or simply enjoying at home, Monkey Butter proves that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable.