Sweet Banana Drunken Monkey Jam is bold, cozy, and just a little bit mischievous. This jam combines ripe bananas with warm spices and a splash of dark rum to create a thick, spoonable spread that tastes like banana bread met a tropical cocktail. It’s rich, fragrant, and unapologetically indulgent.

This is not your average fruit jam. Bananas bring natural creaminess, brown sugar adds caramel depth, and rum enhances everything with a subtle warmth that lingers without overpowering. Whether you spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or spoon it over pancakes, this jam turns simple foods into something unforgettable.

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Jam

Deep, caramelized banana flavor
Warm rum notes without harsh alcohol bite
No pectin required
Small-batch and homemade
Perfect for gifting

Ingredients

ripe bananas, mashed
brown sugar
dark rum
fresh lemon juice
ground cinnamon
vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Instructions

Peel and mash bananas until mostly smooth with small chunks remaining.
Transfer bananas to a heavy-bottom saucepan.
Add brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract.
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture begins to thicken.
Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking.
Stir in dark rum and cook an additional 5 minutes.
Remove from heat once jam is thick and glossy.
Let cool slightly before transferring to jars.
Store in refrigerator or use immediately.

Flavor Balance Explained

Bananas alone can be flat and overly sweet. Lemon juice brings brightness, rum adds warmth, and cinnamon ties everything together. The result is complex but comforting.

How Thick Should Banana Jam Be?

This jam thickens as it cools. On the stove, it should coat the back of a spoon and slowly drip off. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water. Too thin? Simmer longer.

Ways to Use Banana Drunken Monkey Jam

Spread on toast or biscuits
Swirl into oatmeal
Spoon over pancakes or waffles
Use as cake filling
Pair with cheese boards

Alcohol Notes

Most alcohol cooks off, leaving flavor behind. If preferred, substitute rum extract (½ teaspoon) and a splash of water.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store refrigerated in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks. This recipe is best kept chilled.