If you’re in the mood for a sweet, tangy, and tropical spread, this Monkey Butter recipe is your answer. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, it combines bananas, pineapple, sugar, coconut, and lemon juice into a deliciously versatile treat. Whether spread on toast, drizzled on pancakes, or added to your ice cream, this delightful concoction will elevate any dish. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why I Love Monkey Butter
At first, I was skeptical. The ingredients seemed simple enough, but I couldn’t quite imagine how they would blend together into something extraordinary. But as the bananas broke down and the mixture began to cook, I couldn’t help but eagerly anticipate the final result. One taste was all it took to win me over—this stuff is truly incredible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 ripe bananas (no spots): Choose bananas that are ripe but not overly ripe. The natural sweetness is key.
- 14 oz can of crushed pineapple (with juice): The tanginess of the pineapple complements the bananas perfectly.
- 2 cups white sugar: Balances the flavors and helps achieve the right consistency.
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened ground coconut (macaroon coconut): Adds a subtle tropical coconut flavor.
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (bottled): Provides acidity to preserve the butter and adds a slight tartness.
How to Make Monkey Butter
- Prepare the Bananas:
Peel and slice the bananas thinly to help them cook evenly and break down quickly. - Combine the Ingredients:
In a large nonstick pan, mix together the bananas, crushed pineapple with juice, white sugar, ground coconut, and lemon juice. Stir to combine. - Bring to a Boil:
Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir frequently to prevent burning and help the ingredients come together. - Simmer to Perfection:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring often for about 15 to 20 minutes. The mixture will thicken slightly as the bananas break down.
Serving Suggestions
Monkey Butter is incredibly versatile—here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Spread on Toast: Start your day with a tropical twist by spreading it on your morning toast.
- Top for Pancakes or Waffles: Add a spoonful to pancakes or waffles for an instant flavor boost.
- Ice Cream Topping: Warm and drizzle over ice cream for a tropical dessert.
- Yogurt Mix-In: Stir into yogurt for a fruity treat.
Storage Tips
Store Monkey Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks. It’s perfect for busy mornings or as a quick dessert topping.
Recipe Variations
Though the basic Monkey Butter recipe is fantastic, feel free to experiment with:
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced version.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter taste.
- Different Sweeteners: Substitute white sugar with brown sugar or honey for a richer flavor.
- Other Fruits: Try adding diced mango or papaya for an even more tropical kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients already on hand.
- Quick to Make: It takes just a few minutes of prep and a short cooking time to make Monkey Butter.
- Versatile: You can use it in many ways, from spreading to topping or mixing.
- Long Shelf Life: Properly stored, it lasts for weeks, so you can enjoy it at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use ripe bananas with no spots. Overripe bananas may result in a mushy texture.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, just make sure to include the juice from the fresh pineapple to maintain the right consistency.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: The recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products.
Q: Can I freeze Monkey Butter?
A: Yes, freeze Monkey Butter in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Servings: 3 cups
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
This simple five-ingredient Monkey Butter is quick to make and bursting with tropical flavors. It’s a delightful spread that can elevate any dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas (no spots)
- 14 oz can of crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 2 cups white sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened ground coconut (macaroon coconut)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (bottled)
Directions:
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel and slice the bananas into thin pieces.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large nonstick pan, combine the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple with its juice, white sugar, ground coconut, and lemon juice.
- Boil: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the bananas dissolve and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Serve: Enjoy warm over ice cream or spread on toast, pancakes, or waffles.
Notes:
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 to 6 weeks.
