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+ servings
Close-up of a jar filled with a golden, fruity spread.
5 from 1 vote

Monkey Butter

This homemade Monkey Butter combines bananas, pineapple, sugar, coconut, and lemon juice into a tropical, fruit-forward spread that’s perfect on toast, yogurt, or ice cream. Sweet, tangy, and simple to make with just a few pantry staples.
8 Servings

Ingredients

  • 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple, including its juices
  • 2 ¾ cups granulated white sugar
  • 4 to 5 ripe bananas thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup ground coconut or substitute with unsweetened shredded coconut
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Begin by slicing the ripe bananas into thin rounds. Set aside. Do not drain the crushed pineapple, as the juices are essential to the final consistency of the spread.

Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple with its juice, sugar, ground coconut, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture gently to distribute the sugar evenly.

Bring to a Boil

  1. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

Simmer and Reduce

  1. Once the mixture reaches a steady boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and reduces. This process typically takes 15 to 25 minutes. The bananas will break down and incorporate into the mixture, resulting in a smooth, slightly chunky texture.

Test for Doneness

  1. The Monkey Butter is ready when it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency and coats the back of a spoon.

Cool and Store

  1. Remove the pot from the heat. Carefully transfer the hot mixture into clean, sterilized glass jars. Allow the contents to cool to room temperature before sealing the jars with lids. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, provided all packaged ingredients (such as crushed pineapple and shredded coconut) are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to avoid any hidden sources of gluten, particularly in canned goods or pre-packaged coconut.
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