Drunken Monkey Jam is a rich and flavorful banana-based spread with a touch of cinnamon, vanilla, and just the right amount of rum. This jam is the perfect way to elevate your breakfast or dessert, bringing a hint of indulgence to your favorite dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Jam
This unique banana jam is sweet, spiced, and slightly boozy, making it a standout from traditional fruit spreads. Whether slathered on toast, spooned over pancakes, or stirred into yogurt, it’s a treat that adds warmth and depth to every bite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients for Drunken Monkey Jam
- 3 to 4 large ripe bananas, chopped – The riper, the better, as they provide natural sweetness and a rich, caramelized flavor.
- Juice of 1 lime – Helps to balance the sweetness while preventing the bananas from browning too quickly.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds structure and helps thicken the jam while enhancing the bananas’ natural sweetness.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Provides a deeper, molasses-like sweetness and contributes to the jam’s rich, caramelized taste.
- ¾ cup water – Helps dissolve the sugars and creates the base for the jam’s consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice that complements the banana and rum beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons rum – Gives the jam its signature boozy kick and a depth of flavor. A dark or spiced rum will add even more complexity.
How to Make Drunken Monkey Jam
1. Prepare the Bananas
Chop the bananas and drizzle them with lime juice to prevent browning. Set aside while you prepare the sugar mixture.
2. Dissolve the Sugars
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugars dissolve and the mixture begins to boil gently.
3. Add Flavor and Bananas
Stir in the bananas, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and rum. Let the mixture simmer, allowing the bananas to soften.
4. Mash and Thicken
As the bananas cook, mash them gently with a fork or potato masher. Continue simmering for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
5. Check for Consistency
The jam should no longer be runny and should coat the back of a spoon. If needed, cook a little longer to reach the desired thickness.
6. Store and Cool
Pour the hot jam into a clean jar and refrigerate. As it cools, it will continue to thicken into a luscious, spreadable texture.
How to Customize Your Drunken Monkey Jam
One of the best things about this jam is how versatile it is! You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or experiment with new flavors to create a unique spread. Here are a few ways to customize your Drunken Monkey Jam:
Switch Up the Liquor
- Dark Rum – Adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
- Bourbon – Brings a rich, slightly smoky caramel note.
- Coconut Rum – Gives a tropical twist with a hint of coconut sweetness.
- Brandy – Provides a fruity, warm finish.
Add More Spices
- Nutmeg – A pinch of nutmeg enhances the warm spice profile.
- Allspice – Adds a hint of clove and peppery warmth.
- Ginger – Fresh or ground ginger gives the jam a little zing.
Try Different Sweeteners
- Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that complements the banana flavor beautifully.
- Coconut Sugar – For a slightly caramel-like taste.
- Agave Nectar – A lighter alternative to honey or sugar.
Mix in Other Fruits
- Pineapple – Adds a tropical tartness that balances the sweetness.
- Mango – Blends well with banana for a smooth, exotic jam.
- Apples – Chopped apples add a bit of texture and natural pectin to help thicken the jam.
Boost the Texture
- Toasted Nuts – Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for crunch.
- Shredded Coconut – Adds chewiness and enhances the tropical vibe.
- Chia Seeds – Helps naturally thicken the jam while adding extra fiber.
Pairing Drunken Monkey Jam with Foods and Drinks
Drunken Monkey Jam is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of foods and beverages. Whether you enjoy it in the morning, as a snack, or as a dessert topping, here are some creative ways to serve it:
Breakfast Favorites
- Toast & Biscuits – Spread generously over warm, buttered toast or flaky biscuits.
- Pancakes & Waffles – Use it as a topping instead of syrup for a banana-infused twist.
- Oatmeal & Yogurt – Stir a spoonful into your morning oats or yogurt for natural sweetness.
- French Toast – Spread between layers or drizzle on top with powdered sugar.
Baked Goods & Desserts
- Cake Filling – Use it between cake layers for a fruity, spiced flavor.
- Muffins & Scones – Swirl it into muffin batter or serve alongside scones.
- Ice Cream & Cheesecake – Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or use as a topping for cheesecake.
- Banana Bread Glaze – Warm the jam and spread it over banana bread for extra richness.
Savory Pairings
- Cheese Board Addition – Serve with brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Glaze for Meats – Brush over pork, chicken, or grilled shrimp for a caramelized finish.
- Sandwich Spread – Try it on a peanut butter and jam sandwich or pair it with cream cheese on a bagel.
Drink Pairings
- Coffee & Lattes – Complements the warm spices in your favorite coffee drink.
- Dark Rum or Whiskey – Enhance the boozy flavors with a matching liquor.
- Tropical Cocktails – Stir into piña coladas, daiquiris, or rum punches for a banana boost.
No matter how you enjoy it, Drunken Monkey Jam brings a rich, indulgent twist to everyday foods and drinks. Get creative and try it in different ways!
Ways to Enjoy Drunken Monkey Jam
- Spread on buttered toast or biscuits
- Swirled into oatmeal or yogurt
- Layered in parfaits or baked goods
- Used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream
- Served with cheese for a sweet-savory contrast
Pro Tips for the Best Jam
- Use ripe bananas – The riper, the better, as they will be naturally sweeter.
- Adjust the rum – For a stronger boozy flavor, add another splash after cooking. For a kid-friendly version, leave the rum out.
- Stir frequently – This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Store properly – Keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
A Jam Worth Savoring
Drunken Monkey Jam is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional spreads. With its rich banana base, warm spices, and boozy undertones, it’s the perfect addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Give it a try and bring a little extra sweetness to your day!