French Caribbean Banana Monkey Jam

Introduction

French Caribbean Banana Monkey Jam is a rich, tropical fruit preserve that brings together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with juicy pineapple, fragrant coconut, brown sugar, citrus, and warm island spices. It is thick, glossy, fruity, and wonderfully aromatic, making it a beautiful addition to breakfast, afternoon tea,  desserts, and special occasions.

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The combination of banana and pineapple gives this jam its unmistakable tropical character. The banana provides body and a soft, creamy fruitiness, while pineapple contributes brightness and a gentle tang. Brown sugar adds a deep caramel-like sweetness, coconut brings a delicate richness, and citrus keeps the finished jam from becoming overly sweet.

Warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and a small amount of ginger give the preserve an inviting Caribbean-inspired flavor. A little vanilla at the end rounds everything out and makes the fruit taste even more fragrant.

This is the kind of jam that can turn an ordinary slice of toast into something special. It is equally delicious spooned over pancakes, waffles, biscuits, French toast,  cheesecake, pound  cake, or softened cream cheese.

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Ingredients

For the Banana Pineapple Jam

• 4 large very ripe bananas
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
• 1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 small pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup water, only if needed

Optional Additions

For an even more tropical preserve, you can add one of the following:

• 1 tablespoon dark rum
• 1 tablespoon coconut rum
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped candied ginger
• 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
• 1/3 cup finely chopped toasted pecans