Monkey Butter Recipe

If you’re a fan of tropical flavors and easy recipes, Monkey Butter will quickly become one of your favorites. This sweet, fruity spread is bursting with bananas, pineapple, and coconut, making it the perfect addition to toast, pancakes, waffles, or even as a topping for ice cream. Its name might sound silly, but one taste and you’ll understand why it’s gone viral in kitchens everywhere.

This homemade fruit preserve is a quick fix when you have overripe bananas or are looking for a creative way to preserve fresh fruit. The best part? It only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and makes your whole kitchen smell amazing. Plus, it’s free of artificial preservatives and can be stored in the fridge for several weeks.

Whether you’re making it as a sweet gift or keeping it all to yourself (we won’t judge), Monkey Butter is a simple and delicious recipe that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Let’s dive in!

🍽 Cooking Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

• Total Time: 20–25 minutes

• Servings: About 3 cups (approx. 24 servings of 2 tablespoons each)

📝 Ingredients for Monkey Butter

• 5 ripe bananas (medium-sized, mashed or sliced)

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Monkey Butter

1. Prep the fruit: Peel and mash or slice the bananas. Open the can of crushed pineapple — no need to drain it.

2. Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the bananas, pineapple (with juice), sugar, lemon juice, and optional shredded coconut.

3. Cook it down: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring regularly to avoid burning. The mixture should thicken slightly as it cooks.

4. Check consistency: When the mixture is thick and spreadable (similar to jam or apple butter), remove it from the heat.

5. Cool and store: Let the monkey butter cool for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to sterilized jars or containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

📝 Notes

• Bananas: Use ripe (but not overripe) bananas for best flavor and texture.

• Sugar: Adjust sugar to taste — if your bananas and pineapple are very sweet, you can reduce it slightly.

• Coconut: Completely optional, but adds an extra layer of tropical flavor.

• Storage: Always refrigerate Monkey Butter. It is not shelf-stable unless processed in a water bath (not recommended due to banana content).

• Use it on: Toast, muffins, pancakes, waffles, yogurt, cottage cheese, or as a dessert topping.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I freeze Monkey Butter?
A: Yes! You can freeze Monkey Butter in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

Q: Can I can Monkey Butter for long-term storage?
A: It is not recommended to can Monkey Butter using traditional water bath methods due to the low acidity of bananas. Store in the fridge or freezer instead.

Q: My Monkey Butter turned brown. Is it spoiled?
A: Banana-based spreads may brown slightly over time, especially when exposed to air. If it smells or tastes off, discard it. Always store it in a sealed jar in the fridge.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes! Just make sure to include the juice, and chop it finely or crush it before adding to the mixture.

🔍 Nutrition Information (Per 2 Tbsp Serving)

Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and exact quantities.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe is intended for occasional enjoyment and should be consumed in moderation, especially for those watching their sugar intake. Individuals with allergies to bananas, pineapple, coconut, or citrus should avoid this recipe or consult with a medical professional before consuming. Always refrigerate and consume within safe timeframes to avoid spoilage.