Monkey Butter is a rich, creamy, fruity spread made with bananas, pineapple, coconut, and a hint of citrus. Despite its name, it contains no butter. It is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, pancakes, waffles, muffins, or even as a topping for ice cream and yogurt. This homemade recipe is easy to prepare and delivers a tropical flavor that the whole family will love.
What Is Monkey Butter?
Monkey Butter is a sweet fruit preserve that combines ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, lemon juice, and sugar into a thick, smooth spread. It originated as a tropical-inspired fruit butter and has become popular because of its delicious flavor and simple ingredients.
Unlike traditional jams, Monkey Butter has a naturally creamy texture thanks to the bananas. It tastes like a combination of banana bread, pineapple jam, and coconut dessert all in one jar.
Whether you want to preserve fresh fruit or prepare homemade gifts for family and friends, Monkey Butter is an excellent choice.
Ingredients
- 5 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple with juice
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup bottled lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Kitchen Equipment
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Potato masher or fork
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Sterilized mason jars
- Water bath canner (optional for long-term storage)
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Peel the bananas and mash them well using a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth.
Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour the entire contents, including the juice, into a large saucepan.
Add the mashed bananas to the pineapple and stir until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the sugar, lemon juice, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if using.
Mix everything thoroughly until the sugar begins dissolving.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently.
Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking for about 20–25 minutes.
Keep stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.
The mixture will gradually become thicker as it cooks.
Step 4: Check the Consistency
Monkey Butter should coat the back of a spoon.
If it seems too thin, continue simmering for another 5–10 minutes.
Remember that it thickens even more as it cools.
Step 5: Fill the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot Monkey Butter into sterilized jars.
Leave about ¼ inch of headspace.
Wipe the rims clean and tighten the lids.
Step 6: Process (Optional)
For pantry storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
If you plan to refrigerate the Monkey Butter, simply allow the jars to cool completely before placing them in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Best Monkey Butter
Choose bananas that are fully ripe with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Use canned crushed pineapple with juice rather than fresh pineapple for consistent results.
Do not skip the lemon juice, as it balances the sweetness and helps preserve the spread.
Stir frequently while cooking to prevent burning.
Sterilize jars properly if planning to can the spread.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store unopened or opened jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Freezer
Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.
Leave some space at the top because the spread expands slightly when frozen.
Pantry
Properly canned jars can last up to one year in a cool, dark place.
Once opened, refrigerate immediately.
Serving Ideas
Monkey Butter is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Spread on warm toast
- English muffins
- Homemade biscuits
- Croissants
- Pancakes
- French toast
- Waffles
- Yogurt parfaits
- Oatmeal
- Cheesecake topping
- Vanilla ice cream
- Crepes
- Sandwich filling
- Banana bread topping
- Crackers with cream cheese
Variations
Strawberry Monkey Butter
Add one cup finely chopped strawberries for extra berry flavor.
Mango Monkey Butter
Mix in one cup diced mango during cooking.
Spiced Monkey Butter
Increase cinnamon and add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves.
Nutty Monkey Butter
Stir in finely chopped pecans or walnuts after cooking.
Less Sweet Version
Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a more fruit-forward flavor. Keep in mind that reducing sugar may shorten the shelf life.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Tablespoon)
- Calories: 45
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 2mg
Values may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Monkey Butter?
Despite the name, Monkey Butter contains no butter. It gets its name from its banana-rich tropical flavor, which is often associated with monkeys.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, but canned crushed pineapple provides more consistent moisture and texture. If using fresh pineapple, crush it finely and include its natural juice.
Does Monkey Butter need pectin?
No. Bananas naturally help thicken the mixture, so additional pectin is not required.
Can I make it without coconut?
Absolutely. Simply leave out the coconut if you prefer a smoother spread or have dietary preferences.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, although the texture and storage life may be slightly affected. For refrigerator storage, reducing sugar usually works well.
Why is my Monkey Butter too runny?
It likely needs additional cooking time. Continue simmering until the mixture thickens. It will also become firmer after cooling.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
Final Thoughts
Monkey Butter is a delicious tropical fruit spread that combines bananas, pineapple, coconut, and citrus into one smooth and flavorful preserve. It is simple to prepare, requires basic pantry ingredients, and can be enjoyed in countless ways—from breakfast toast to desserts. Whether you’re making a batch for your family or filling jars as thoughtful homemade gifts, this recipe delivers rich tropical flavor in every spoonful. Once you try homemade Monkey Butter, it’s likely to become one of your favorite fruit spreads for every season.
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