Drunken Monkey Jam Recipe

If you love a tropical twist on your morning toast or afternoon snack, the Drunken Monkey Jam Recipe is an absolute must-try. This luscious banana-based jam infused with dark rum and warm spices brings a rich, indulgent flavor that’s both comforting and delightfully unexpected. It’s a simple recipe that transforms ripe bananas into a glossy, fragrant spread bursting with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, making every bite a little celebration of sweetness and spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and ensure the perfect texture. These essentials come together to create a jam that is silky, balanced, and wonderfully aromatic.

• 4 ripe bananas: The star of the show, mashed to provide natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup dark rum: Adds a rich depth and warm, boozy undertone that elevates the jam.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the bananas and helps achieve that signature jam consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a sweet floral note that complements the banana beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a cozy spice that pairs perfectly with the rum and bananas.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a slightly nutty, fragrant warmth.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity to brighten the overall flavor and help with preservation.

How to Make Drunken Monkey Jam Recipe

Step 1: Mash the Bananas

Start by peeling four perfectly ripe bananas and mashing them in a medium bowl until they become smooth with only a few small lumps remaining. This creates the creamy base that will hold the jam’s flavors together beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

Next, add the mashed bananas to a medium saucepan along with the dark rum, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mixing everything together now ensures that the flavors meld as it cooks.

Step 3: Dissolve the Sugar Over Medium Heat

Place your saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon. This step gently dissolves the sugar into the bananas and rum, creating a smooth, sweet foundation that prevents any graininess in the final jam.

Step 4: Bring to a Gentle Boil, Then Simmer

Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. After it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer slowly. This slow cooking is key to thickening the jam and developing that gorgeous glossy look.

Step 5: Cook Until Thick and Glossy

Stir the jam often to prevent sticking and burning. After about 20 to 30 minutes, you should notice the jam thickening and taking on a shiny, almost jam-like texture. This slow simmer concentrates the flavors while creating a luscious spread.

Step 6: Test for Doneness

To check if your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and push it gently with your finger. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, you’ve nailed the perfect consistency. If it’s still too runny, give it a few more minutes on the heat.

Step 7: Cool Slightly Off the Heat

Once you’re satisfied with the texture, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool a bit. Cooling allows the jam to set further and makes it safer to handle when transferring to jars.

Step 8: Jar Up Your Jam

Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about a quarter inch of space at the top. Wipe down the rims to keep them clean, then seal securely with sterilized lids. Proper sealing is essential to keep that fresh homemade charm.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Allow your jam jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in the refrigerator where your creation will stay fresh and flavorful for up to a month. Now you can enjoy your Drunken Monkey Jam Recipe anytime you want a tropical treat.

How to Serve Drunken Monkey Jam Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a few fresh banana slices on top can elevate the presentation and add a little extra texture contrast that’s irresistible. A pinch of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of honey also pairs beautifully.

Side Dishes

This jam shines when spread on warm buttered toast, swirled into Greek yogurt, or dolloped onto pancakes or waffles. It also makes a decadent topping for cheesecakes or as a filling in thumbprint cookies for a sweet surprise.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering this jam with cream cheese or mascarpone in small glasses as a quick dessert parfait. Or, fold it into your favorite muffin or cake batter to infuse that tropical flair throughout baked goods.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your homemade Drunken Monkey Jam in airtight jars in the refrigerator, and it will retain its fresh, rich flavor for up to one month. This makes it an ideal recipe to prepare ahead for gatherings or just to have on hand for daily indulgence.

Freezing

If you want to keep your jam longer than a month, consider freezing it. Use freezer-safe containers and leave space at the top since jams expand when frozen. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to use it, and stir well before serving.

Reheating

If your jam becomes too firm after refrigeration or freezing, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat while stirring. This softens it up and brings back that fresh, spreadable texture without compromising the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this jam?

Absolutely! The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your jam will be. Just be sure they’re not overly bruised or brown on the inside, as that can affect the taste.

Is it necessary to use dark rum, or can I substitute?

Dark rum adds a distinctive warmth and complexity, but if you prefer, you can substitute with spiced rum or even a flavored liqueur. Avoid clear spirits, as they won’t provide the same depth.

Can I adjust the sugar amount if I want it less sweet?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly if you like a less sweet jam. Keep in mind that sugar also helps with the jam’s texture and preservation, so don’t eliminate too much.

How long does the Drunken Monkey Jam last once opened?

Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within 2 to 3 weeks for the best taste and freshness.

Can this jam be canned for longer shelf life?

While this recipe is designed for refrigerator storage, you can process the jars in a boiling water bath to extend shelf life. Just ensure you follow proper canning procedures to keep it safe.

Final Thoughts

Making the Drunken Monkey Jam Recipe is such a joyful experience that rewards you with a uniquely luscious jam perfect for many occasions. Its warm spices paired with banana and rum invite comfort and indulgence with every spoonful. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon—you might find it becoming your new favorite spread, just like it is for me!

Print