Fire Monkey Butter
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: Makes about 4-5 half-pint jars
What Is Fire Monkey Butter?
Fire Monkey Butter is a sweet-and-spicy fruit butter made with bananas, pineapple, coconut, cinnamon, and a fiery kick from red pepper flakes or cayenne. It’s often compared to a tropical version of apple butter — spreadable, addictive, and absolutely delicious on toast, pancakes, ice cream, or straight off a spoon.
The name comes from the combination of “monkey” (bananas) and “fire” (the heat). Once you try it, you’ll understand the obsession.
Ingredients
Fruit base:
- 4 ripe bananas (the riper, the better)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 can (14 oz) cream of coconut (not coconut milk)
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
Sweetener & spice:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
The “Fire”:
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (start with ½ tsp for less heat)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra kick)
Other:
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richer texture)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Peel the bananas and mash them well in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher. You want a chunky puree, not completely smooth.
Step 2: Combine Everything in a Pot
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine:
- Mashed bananas
- Crushed pineapple with its juice
- Cream of coconut
- Shredded coconut
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using)
- Red pepper flakes
- Cayenne (if using)
- Salt
Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Place the pot over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
Once simmering, reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the mixture has thickened significantly. It should look like a thick fruit butter or jam — it will continue to thicken as it cools.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Butter
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter (if using). Mix until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste your Fire Monkey Butter. Want more sweetness? Add a little sugar. Want more fire? Stir in extra red pepper flakes or cayenne. Want more coconut? Add a splash more cream of coconut.
Step 6: Jar It Up
Spoon the hot Fire Monkey Butter into clean, sterilized half-pint jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and let cool to room temperature.
Step 7: Store
Refrigerate for up to 3 months. For longer storage, process jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.