If you’re searching for a delightfully sweet and tangy spread, look no further than this scrumptious Monkey Butter recipe. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this tropical fruit butter is a combination of bananas, pineapple, sugar, coconut, and lemon juice. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, topping your pancakes, or adding a spoonful to your ice cream, this versatile concoction will elevate your culinary creations to new heights.

When I first encountered Monkey Butter, I was skeptical. The ingredients seemed simple enough, but I couldn’t imagine how they would come together to create something extraordinary. However, as the mixture began to cook and the bananas started to break down, I found myself eagerly anticipating the final product. One taste was all it took to convince me – this stuff is incredible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this mouthwatering Monkey Butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 perfectly ripe bananas (no spots): Ensure your bananas are ripe but not overly so. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas is essential for this recipe.
• 14 oz can of crushed pineapple (with the juice): The pineapple adds a refreshing tang and complements the bananas perfectly.
• 2 cups white sugar: This helps to balance the flavors and achieve the right consistency.
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened ground coconut (macaroon coconut): This adds a subtle coconut flavor that enhances the tropical vibe of the Monkey Butter.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from a bottle): The acidity of the lemon juice helps to preserve the butter and adds a slight tartness.

How to Make

1. Preparing the Bananas

Start by peeling and slicing the bananas into thin pieces. This allows them to cook evenly and break down faster, creating a smooth texture for your Monkey Butter.

2. Combining the Ingredients

In a large nonstick pan, combine the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple with its juice, white sugar, ground coconut, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Bringing to a Boil

Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir frequently to prevent the sugar from burning and to help the ingredients meld together.

4. Simmering to Perfection

Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Continue to stir frequently to avoid sticking and to ensure the bananas dissolve completely. This process should take about 15 to 20 minutes. The mixture will thicken slightly as it cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Monkey Butter is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Spread on Toast: Start your day with a tropical twist by spreading Monkey Butter on your morning toast.
• Topping for Pancakes or Waffles: Add a generous spoonful of Monkey Butter to your pancakes or waffles for a burst of flavor.
• Ice Cream Topping: Warm the Monkey Butter slightly and drizzle it over your favorite ice cream for a delicious dessert.
• Yogurt Mix-In: Stir a spoonful into your yogurt for a fruity, flavorful treat.

Storage Tips

Monkey Butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks. This makes it a perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings or when you need a quick dessert topping.

Recipe Variations

While the basic Monkey Butter recipe is fantastic on its own, you can also experiment with variations to suit your taste:

• Add Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced version.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: For a fresher taste, substitute the bottled lemon juice with freshly squeezed lemon juice.
• Try Different Sweeteners: Replace white sugar with brown sugar or honey for a different flavor profile.
• Include Other Fruits: Add diced mango or papaya to the mix for an even more tropical experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand already, making it easy to whip up a batch.
• Quick to Make: With just a few minutes of prep time and a short cooking period, you can have Monkey Butter ready in no time.
• Versatile: This spread can be used in so many ways, making it a handy addition to your kitchen repertoire.
• Long Shelf Life: Stored properly, Monkey Butter lasts for weeks, so you can enjoy it whenever you like.

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 make the mixture too mushy.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

A: Yes, but make sure to include the juice from the fresh pineapple to maintain the right consistency.

Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?

A: This recipe is already vegan, as it contains no animal products.

Q: Can I freeze Monkey Butter?

A: Yes, you can freeze Monkey Butter in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.