Boozy Banana Bliss Jam (Drunken Monkey Jam)

Introduction

Meet your new favorite spread: Boozy Banana Bliss Jam. This playful, sweet, and slightly boozy banana jam takes everything you love about ripe bananas and elevates it with rich brown sugar, warm vanilla, cozy cinnamon, and a splash of rum for grown-up flair. Whether you’re topping pancakes, swirling it into yogurt, or gifting jars to friends, this jam is equal parts cozy comfort and unexpected delight. Bonus: it fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma while it simmers.

Pro Tip

Want a velvety-smooth jam? Once cooled slightly, pulse the mixture in a blender or food processor until you reach your desired consistency. It’s a great option if you prefer a more uniform, spreadable texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Spread over warm buttered toast or English muffins.
• Swirl into creamy Greek yogurt or oatmeal.
• Use as a glaze for pound cake or cheesecake.

Variations

1. Kid-Friendly Version: Omit the rum for a sweet banana-cinnamon jam everyone can enjoy.
2. Tropical Twist: Add 1/4 cup crushed pineapple for bright, fruity flavor.
3. Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder with the sugars for a rich chocolate-banana jam.
4. Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/3 cup finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts after cooking for texture and crunch.

Equipment Needed

• Medium Saucepan: For cooking the jam evenly.
• Silicone Spatula: Helps prevent sticking and makes stirring easy.
• Glass Jar with Lid: For safe storage in the fridge.
• Chilled Plate (for testing): Helps check jam consistency.

Tips for Success

1. Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest, richest flavor.
2. Stir regularly while simmering to avoid scorching on the bottom.
3. Don’t skip the lime juice; it balances sweetness and prevents browning.
4. If using rum, choose a dark or spiced variety for best flavor.
5. Let the jam cool before storing to avoid condensation inside the jar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This jam is comfort in a jar. It transforms humble bananas into a rich, aromatic, and slightly sophisticated treat. The touch of rum elevates it, making it perfect for adults, yet totally customizable for family use. With pantry staples and a simple method, you can have this sweet spread ready in under an hour.

Recipe Card

Ingredients:

• 3–4 large ripe bananas, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons rum (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel and chop bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine bananas, lime juice, both sugars, water, vanilla, cinnamon, and rum (if using).
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugars.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. To test doneness, place a spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.
6. Remove from heat, cool slightly, and transfer to a jar.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition (per tablespoon, estimated)

• Calories: 55
• Protein: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 1mg

FAQ

1. How long does this jam last?
Stored properly in the fridge, it keeps for up to 2 weeks.

2. Can I freeze this jam?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make it alcohol-free?
Absolutely. Just skip the rum for a family-friendly version.

4. What other fruits can I use?
Try adding strawberries, blueberries, or mango for fun variations.

5. How can I thicken it more if it seems runny?
Simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring often, until desired thickness is reached.