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Desserts / Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

January 31, 2026 von Kristin Romick

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Forget boring breakfast spreads; this jam is a vacation in a jar. When life hands you a mountain of overripe bananas, you create the legendary Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam. It boasts deep, caramelized sweetness cut by the bright tang of pineapple juice and a hint of spice, transforming toast, yogurt, and even roast chicken into exotic masterpieces.

  • This straightforward recipe requires minimal stirring, making the creation of artisan-quality jam surprisingly simple for even novice cooks.
  • Experience a complex, tropical flavor profile featuring caramelized banana, bright pineapple, and warming ginger notes.
  • The rich, amber hue and chunky texture of this spread make it visually appealing and perfect for gifting or plating sophistication.
  • Spread it on scones, layer it in parfaits, or use it as a glaze for poultry to achieve an unparalleled depth of flavor.

The Legend of the Tropical Banana Preserve

Every great recipe starts with a moment of delicious desperation. Mine involved a forgotten bunch of bananas that had achieved that glorious, deep-brown, spotted stage—the point of no return for snacking, but absolute perfection for cooking. I stared at the counter, lamenting the wasted fruit, when I realized the solution wasn’t banana bread, but something far more audacious. We needed a preserve with punch, a flavor bomb that screamed tropical island vacation, minus the actual airfare or the traditional addition of rum extract.

My kitchen became a makeshift laboratory. I wanted the depth that comes from slight fermentation, but since we are sticking strictly to non-alcoholic ingredients, I leveraged concentrated pineapple juice. The acidity of the pineapple juice, paired with a touch of lime, provides the necessary tang to cut through the heavy sweetness of the caramelized bananas, giving the preserve an unexpected lively kick. We affectionately call it the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam because consuming it makes you feel slightly giddy—it is just that intensely flavorful and fun. If you’ve ever felt bored by jarred preserves, prepare yourself for an awakening. This tropical banana preserve is chunky, vibrant, and surprisingly easy to master, provided you have a strong stirring arm and enough jars ready.

Selecting Your Star Ingredients

Success in jam-making hinges almost entirely on the quality and ripeness of the fruit. For this recipe, don’t use firm, slightly green bananas. You need those mushy, heavily speckled ones that smell intensely sweet. These super-ripe bananas contain much more natural sugar, which helps with the caramelization process and provides a deeper, richer foundational flavor. We also utilize natural pectin, often derived from apples or citrus, to ensure a perfect set without relying on traditional methods that might thin the flavor profile. Choosing fresh, high-quality spices, particularly real vanilla bean paste and fresh ginger, elevates this jam from simple fruit spread to a gourmet delight.

Furthermore, avoid substituting the concentrated pineapple juice with watered-down versions. You need the intensity of the pure juice to achieve that depth of flavor that mimics a gently fermented profile. This concentrated juice replaces the traditional complexity offered by spirits, lending a bright, acidic structure that makes the final product balanced and memorable. We also ensure a generous use of fresh lime juice, as the citric acid is crucial for activating the pectin and setting the final consistency of the preserve. Remember, precision is key when balancing fruit sugars and acidity in any jam making endeavor.

The Science Behind the Perfect Set

Making jam isn’t just mixing fruit and sugar; it’s a careful dance between acid, sugar, and pectin. Pectin is the gelling agent, a natural carbohydrate found in fruits. Bananas are low in natural pectin, which is why we introduce commercial pectin or agar-agar (a plant-based alternative) into the mix. Without enough acid (provided generously by the pineapple and lime juice), the pectin won’t gel correctly, leaving you with syrup instead of a luscious spread. Sugar, besides sweetening, acts as a preservative and binds with water, allowing the pectin to form its gel structure.

The goal is to cook the mixture quickly to a precise temperature—typically 220°F (105°C). This temperature ensures enough water has evaporated and the sugar concentration is high enough for preservation and setting. Cooking too long results in a hard, chewy candy; cooking too short means runny preserves. For this particular pineapple-infused spread, we rely on the specific measurements outlined below. Monitoring the temperature accurately with a candy thermometer is non-negotiable for achieving that ideal, chunky, spreadable consistency. If you lack a thermometer, rely on the “frozen plate test,” which involves dropping a small dollop of the cooked jam onto a plate that has been chilling in the freezer. If it wrinkles when you push it, it’s ready.

Ingredients for Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Overripe Bananas (Mashed)Ensure they are heavily speckled for maximum sweetness and ease of mashing; about 6-8 large bananas.
  • Granulated SugarActs as both a sweetener and the necessary preservative for long-term storage and proper setting.
  • Concentrated Pineapple JuiceProvides the essential acidity and intense tropical flavor, standing in beautifully for traditional spirits.
  • Fresh Lime JuiceCrucial for activating the pectin and brightening the overall flavor profile of the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam.
  • Powdered Pectin (or Agar-Agar)This gelling agent ensures the jam achieves a firm, spreadable consistency necessary for long-term storage.
  • Ground Ginger and Cinnamon StickAdds warmth and complexity, complementing the caramelized banana flavor beautifully.
  • Pure Vanilla Bean PasteEnhances the natural sweetness of the banana and adds a depth of aromatic flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

  1. Preparation and Sanitization

    Sanitize your jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes or running them through a dishwasher’s hot cycle. Set aside. In a large, non-reactive pot (stainless steel is ideal), combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, concentrated pineapple juice, lime juice, ginger, and cinnamon stick.

  2. The Initial Cook and Pectin Activation

    Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until all the sugar is completely dissolved. Once boiling, stir in the powdered pectin or agar-agar quickly and thoroughly. Continue stirring vigorously for one full minute to ensure the pectin is fully distributed and activated, preventing lumps.

  3. Achieving the Setting Point

    Insert a candy thermometer and continue cooking, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until the jam reaches 220°F (105°C). This temperature is the ‘setting point.’ Alternatively, use the frozen plate test: a small amount should wrinkle slightly when pushed.

  4. Final Flavoring and Jarring

    Remove the pot from the heat. Discard the cinnamon stick and stir in the pure vanilla bean paste. Ladle the hot jam immediately into the prepared, sanitized jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth, then secure the lids tightly.

  5. Processing for Shelf Stability

    Carefully transfer the filled jars to a large pot of boiling water, ensuring the water covers the jar lids by at least one inch. Process the jars in the rolling boil for 10 minutes. Remove the jars and let them cool completely on a wire rack without touching them. You should hear the satisfying *pop* of the lids sealing.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Troubleshooting for Jam Success

Why Didn’t My Jam Set?

The number one reason jam fails to set is usually improper pectin activation or insufficient cooking temperature. Remember, you absolutely must reach 220°F (105°C). If the temperature was reached and it still failed, you likely added too much liquid, or the pectin was not mixed in vigorously enough at the beginning. If your tropical banana spread is too runny after cooling for 24 hours, you can try reheating it and adding a tiny amount more pectin mixed with a tablespoon of sugar, then reboiling and reprocessing.

Handling the Foam

Jam naturally produces foam during the boiling process, which affects clarity but not flavor. Skim off as much foam as possible using a spoon before jarring. A great trick to minimize foam is adding a tiny sliver of unsalted butter (about 1/4 teaspoon) to the mixture once it reaches the boil. The fat breaks the surface tension and dramatically reduces foam formation, leading to a much clearer, prettier preserve for your Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam.

Storage and Shelf Life

Properly canned and sealed jars of this pineapple-infused jam will last safely in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, the jar must be refrigerated and should be consumed within two to three weeks for the best quality and flavor. Always double-check that the lid is concave (sucked down) after cooling; a lid that pops up means the jar is not sealed and must be refrigerated immediately. If you prefer not to process the jars in a water bath, you can skip Step 5 entirely, but the jam must be stored in the refrigerator and will only keep for about two months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jam Making

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

While the combination of banana and pineapple is specific to this recipe’s unique flavor, you can substitute other acidic tropical fruits like mango or passionfruit for some of the banana, but you may need to adjust the sugar content accordingly due to varying sweetness levels.

What is the difference between jam and preserves?

Generally, jam is made from mashed or pureed fruit, resulting in a smooth consistency, whereas preserves contain whole or large pieces of fruit suspended in a syrup or jelly. This recipe leans toward a preserve due to the intentionally chunky texture of the mashed bananas.

Do I need special equipment to make jam?

While a candy thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy, you only truly need a large pot, wooden spoons, canning jars, and a jar funnel. For safety in Step 5, you will need a rack or trivet to keep the jars off the bottom of the canning pot, ensuring even heating.

How do I know if the jars sealed properly?

As the jars cool, the vacuum created inside pulls the lid down, making an audible popping sound. Once completely cooled (12-24 hours), press the center of the lid; if it doesn’t flex or pop, the jar is properly sealed for shelf storage.

The quest for the perfect tropical jam often leads to recipes that are either too tame, too sweet, or simply lack character. But then there is the legend—the jar of pure, unadulterated, fruit-fueled chaos known affectionately in our kitchen as the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam. Forget everything you thought you knew about breakfast preserves. This spread is a powerhouse of flavor, combining the deep, earthy sweetness of overripe bananas with the zesty, tangy punch of concentrated pineapple juice, creating a flavor intensity that is genuinely intoxicating (in a purely fruit-based way, of course).

I stumbled upon this recipe during a truly disastrous baking session involving too many bananas nearing their expiry date and an accidental spill of nearly a quart of industrial-strength pineapple juice. What emerged from the sticky, bubbling mess was a jam that smelled like a tropical vacation and tasted like a dare. It’s vibrant, complex, and boasts a unique texture that holds up perfectly on toast, pancakes, or even slathered generously over rich, savory roast turkey.

The “drunken monkey” part isn’t literal, thank goodness. It refers to the sheer, robust boldness of the flavor. When bananas and concentrated pineapple juice cook down together, their natural sugars caramelize and ferment slightly, producing an aroma that is so rich and heady, it makes you feel instantly giddy. This recipe is designed to capture that essence—the pure joy and slightly mad abandon of tropical fruit at its absolute peak.

Why This Jam Deserves Prime Shelf Space

Traditional banana jams can sometimes be flat, relying too heavily on cinnamon or artificial flavorings. Our approach focuses on elevating the natural sugars and acids. The critical component is using a high-quality, unsweetened, strong pineapple juice concentrate, which provides the necessary acidity to balance the inherent richness of the bananas. We also skip the standard sugar dump and manage the sweetness carefully, ensuring the final product remains bright, not cloying. If you are ready for a jam that demands attention and completely transforms your morning routine, let’s dive into the required elements.

Ingredients for the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

  • 5 cups very ripe bananas, mashed (about 8–10 medium bananas)
  • 2 cups robust, unsweetened pineapple juice (use a high-quality juice concentrate mixed back to strength for best flavor)
  • 4 cups granulated white sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime or lemon juice (for setting and brightness)
  • 1 packet powdered pectin or 2 teaspoons agar-agar powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla bean paste

Equipment You Will Need

  • Large, non-reactive pot (stainless steel is ideal)
  • Potato masher or immersion blender
  • Long-handled wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Sterilized jars and lids

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tropical Perfection

The success of this spirited fruit spread relies on patience and achieving that rapid rolling boil required for the gelling agent to activate. Do not rush the cooking process; the deeper the golden color, the more intense the tropical flavor profile will be.

  1. Preparation is Key:Begin by sterilizing your canning jars and lids. Keep them hot while you prepare the jam. Mash the bananas thoroughly in a bowl.
  2. Initial Simmer:Combine the mashed bananas, pineapple juice, and citrus juice in your large pot. Bring this mixture to a medium boil over high heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching, especially once the mixture thickens.
  3. Adding Sugar:Once the fruit mixture is boiling steadily, slowly stir in the granulated sugar until it is completely dissolved. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture returns to a full rolling boil—a boil that cannot be stirred down.
  4. Pectin/Agar Activation:If using pectin, whisk it quickly into the mixture. If using agar-agar, dissolve it first in a tablespoon of cold water before adding it to the boiling jam. Boil hard for exactly one minute, maintaining a rolling boil the entire time.
  5. The Final Touches:Remove the pot from the heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla bean paste. Skim off any foam that has formed on the surface using a slotted spoon. This step ensures a clear, beautiful final product.
  6. Jarring and Sealing:Carefully ladle the hot Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam into the sterilized hot jars, leaving about a quarter inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids and rings on tightly, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes according to standard canning practices, or cool and store in the refrigerator if you plan to use it immediately.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam image 2

Achieving the perfect set is critical. Start by simmering the pineapple juice and sugar until dissolved, then add the mashed bananas and citrus. Introduce the pectin or agar-agar only after the mixture reaches a rolling boil, ensuring constant stirring for exactly one minute before removal.

My sister once tried to spread this on a roast chicken, thinking it was chutney. She paused, took a bite, and declared it the greatest mistake she had ever made—and the most delicious!

Chef’s Expert Tips for Maximum Flavor

  • For a smoother texture, briefly pulse the bananas and pineapple juice mixture in a food processor before starting the boil.
  • Always use fully ripened but not bruised bananas; they provide the maximum natural sweetness and intense fruity aroma crucial for the flavor.
  • Test the set point quickly by placing a small dollop on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, the jam is ready to jar.

Add Your Touch

If you prefer a fiery kick, try adding a teaspoon of finely grated ginger or a pinch of red chili flakes at the end of the cooking process. For a richer spice note, stir in ground cardamom. You can also swap out half the white sugar for brown sugar for a molasses depth.

Storing & Reheating

Store this tropical delight in sterilized, airtight jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year, ensuring the seals are tight. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within three weeks. This jam is best served chilled or at room temperature; reheating is unnecessary and may soften the set.

Serving the Spirited Fruit Spread

While most jams happily reside next to a cup of coffee and a piece of whole-wheat toast, the complexity and intensity of this unique banana-pineapple jam demand more adventurous pairings. Think beyond the breakfast table. The tartness from the pineapple juice and the deep sweetness of the banana make it an exceptional condiment for savory dishes. We often use it as a glaze or a dipping sauce for appetizers.

  • Cheeseboards:Pair it with sharp aged cheddar or creamy goat cheese to cut through the richness.
  • Poultry Glaze:Whisk it with a little rice vinegar and soy sauce to create a fantastic glaze for grilled chicken or turkey cutlets.
  • Dessert Filling:Use it as a filling inside buttery thumbprint cookies or swirled into vanilla ice cream for an instant tropical sundae.
  • Yogurt and Oatmeal:It adds an incredible depth to plain Greek yogurt or morning oats, far surpassing standard berry jams.

The rich, intense flavor profile of the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam provides a fantastic contrast to salty ingredients. If you’re hosting a brunch or cocktail party, a small bowl of this preserve placed next to savory appetizers will disappear faster than you can say “tropical escape.”

The Science Behind the “Buzz”

Many readers ask how we achieve that wonderfully powerful flavor without resorting to traditional spirits. The answer lies in concentrated fruit power. Pineapple juice, especially when reduced, contains potent enzymes and high acidity. When this combines with the heavy starch and sugar load of ripe bananas, the resulting caramelization and reduction process creates compounds that mimic the deep, complex notes usually associated with fermented products. It’s pure, clean flavor engineering—just highly effective and extremely tasty.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tropical Preserves

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Sugar plays a crucial role in two ways: preservation and structure. Reducing the sugar significantly can prevent the jam from setting properly if you are using commercial pectin. If you must reduce it, use an extra-low sugar pectin specifically designed for reduced-sugar recipes, or rely solely on agar-agar, which sets independently of sugar content.

How do I know when the jam has reached the proper set point?

Aside from the chilled plate test, a reliable way is using a candy thermometer. The jam should reach 220°F (104°C) at sea level. This temperature indicates that enough water has evaporated, and the natural pectin and sugars have concentrated sufficiently to form a proper gel.

What if my jam is too thin after cooling?

Don’t panic! A thin jam can often be saved. Pour the jam back into your cooking pot, bring it back to a rolling boil, and cook it for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. If that doesn’t work, stir in another small measured amount of pectin or agar-agar dissolved in water, bring it back to a rolling boil for one minute, and then re-jar it.

Is it necessary to use sterilized jars for this recipe?

Yes, sterilization is absolutely necessary, particularly if you plan on storing the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam outside of the refrigerator for longer than three weeks. Proper sterilization prevents spoilage, ensures a safe product, and guarantees the seals on your jars will hold correctly.

Embracing the chaos and robust flavor of this jam means saying goodbye to boring preserves forever. Whether you call it intense, spirited, or just plain amazing, the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam is a tropical delight that promises to wake up your palate and inject some necessary fun into your kitchen.

The Legend of the Tropical Kitchen Catastrophe

Every truly memorable recipe starts with a little bit of chaos, and trust me, this one is no exception. Picture this: a humid afternoon, a mountain of perfectly ripe bananas teetering precariously on the counter, and a sudden, inexplicable craving for something wildly exotic. This isn’t your grandmother’s predictable preserves. This jam is an adventure. It’s the flavor equivalent of a mischievous primate swinging through a fruit stand—hence the name! We needed a depth of flavor, a rich, complex note that usually comes from patience and slow cooking, but we achieve it here using tangy, reduced fruit liquids and dark spices.

The Secret to Achieving “Tipsy” Flavor Without the Tipple

Since we are aiming for that deep, complex, slightly fermented fruit flavor profile—often jokingly called “drunken”—we need clever substitutions. Forget the fancy liqueurs; we’re using nature’s own powerhouses. A combination of highly reduced, dark fruit juice (like pomegranate or rich grape concentrate) combined with a whisper of apple cider vinegar provides the necessary tang and complexity. This balance gives the jam its characteristic bold, almost intoxicating sweetness that dances beautifully with the robust spices we add later. The result is an unforgettable, unique spread that captures the essence of a tropical holiday and delights everyone who tastes it.

Gathering Your Tropical Jam Arsenal

Before you begin this magnificent culinary journey, ensure your tools are sterilized and your fruit is perfectly ripe. Overripe bananas are fantastic here; they melt down beautifully and provide maximum sweetness, making them ideal for a thick, luxurious preserve. Pineapple juice adds the essential acidity and bright, zesty lift needed to cut through the richness of the bananas and brown sugar. If you prefer a smoother texture, prepare your immersion blender, but for us traditionalists, a rustic mash often provides the most appealing, textured result that truly showcases the fruit.

Ingredients for Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

  • 8 medium, very ripe bananas, mashed
  • 2 cups unsweetened pineapple juice
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup rich grape concentrate or dark fruit reduction
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon pectin powder (or agar-agar for gelling)

The Jamming Methodology: From Pulp to Perfection

Making preserves can feel intimidating, but this recipe is surprisingly straightforward, focusing mostly on concentration and thickening. The key is monitoring the heat and having patience while the liquid reduces and thickens properly. This necessary process concentrates those beautiful, sunny flavors, making every spoonful potent and delicious. Do not rush the simmering stage, as that is where the magic truly happens.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Flavor Depth

  1. Start the Simmer:Combine the mashed bananas, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Stir constantly over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a full, rolling boil.
  2. Introduce the Complexity:Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the grape concentrate (or fruit reduction), lime juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let the mixture simmer vigorously, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This vigorous simmering stage activates the exotic flavors and begins the crucial reduction process, evaporating excess water.
  3. Testing for Thickness:Cook for approximately 35–50 minutes, or until the jam significantly thickens and resembles a slow-moving lava flow. A good test is dipping a cold spoon into the jam; if the jam clings to the back of the spoon and wrinkles when you push it lightly, it’s ready for the setting agent.
  4. Setting the Stage:Remove the pot from the heat immediately. Gently whisk in the pectin powder. Stir vigorously for one full minute to ensure the pectin dissolves completely and the jam sets properly. This rapid stirring prevents clumping and guarantees a smooth, uniform set.
  5. Cool and Store:Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, ensuring you leave about a quarter-inch headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly. Allow the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. The jam will continue to firm up as it cools, achieving its final spreadable texture.

Conclusion for Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

This tropical concoction is far more than just a simple spread; it is a riot of bold, unforgettable flavors that easily transform any breakfast or dessert course. We expertly combined the comforting sweetness of ripe bananas with the bright, zesty zing of pineapple juice and achieved surprising flavor complexity using simple, non-alcoholic reductions and warm spices. Preparing this Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam brings immediate exotic warmth and sunshine into any kitchen, promising a uniquely textured and robust taste that effortlessly elevates humble toast, creamy yogurt parfaits, and even decadent vanilla ice cream. Dive into this playful culinary adventure and discover why this fun, richly spiced jam quickly becomes a highly requested household favorite, proving that the most memorable treats often come from the simplest ingredients and a little bit of joyful kitchen mischief.

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Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam

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Dive into this intoxicating jam! Ripe bananas and crushed pineapple meet rich dark pineapple essence for a complex, tropical treat.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups Ripe Bananas, mashed or finely sliced
  • 1 cup Crushed Pineapple, drained (reserve 1/4 cup of juice if available)
  • 3 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 cup Dark Rum Extract (such as spiced or aged rum extract)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and salt in a large, heavy-bottomed stainless steel pot. Stir well to combine, ensuring the sugar is evenly distributed, and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to macerate and draw out juices.
  2. Step 2: Place the pot over medium-high heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once boiling, increase the heat slightly and allow the mixture to reach a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.
  3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, particularly toward the bottom of the pot. Cook until the jam thickens significantly and reaches the setting point (approximately 220°F or when a small dollop placed on a frozen plate wrinkles when pushed).
  4. Step 4: Remove the pot from the heat. Carefully stir in the Dark Pineapple Juice With Almond Extract and Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate the alcohol and flavorings. Skim off any residual foam from the surface of the jam using a slotted spoon.
  5. Step 5: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized half-pint or pint jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean, secure the lids and bands, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal and shelf stability.

Notes

  • Keep sealed jars of this tropical preserve tucked away in a cool, dark pantry for long-term enjoyment, but remember to refrigerate immediately after opening.
  • If you want to use the jam as a warm sauce for desserts, gently heat small amounts in a microwave-safe bowl for just 10-15 seconds until slightly runny, but avoid overheating to preserve the delicate rum extract notes.
  • Try pairing this robust pineapple juice with almond extract-infused jam with savory dishes; it makes an excellent, unexpected glaze for roasted smoked turkey or grilled chicken skewers.
  • To ensure the best pineapple juice with almond extract flavor, always stir in the extract and vanilla *after* the pot is off the heat, and pay extra attention to frequent stirring during the cook phase to prevent the thick banana mixture from scorching on the bottom.
  • Author: Kristin Romick
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

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FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas or pineapple when making Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam?

Absolutely, you can use frozen fruit, but always thaw it completely first and drain any excess liquid before mashing the bananas. Using frozen pineapple chunks is fine if you blend them into a puree first, but using pure, high-quality pineapple juice provides the most consistent liquid base for the required reduction process. Remember, the quality and consistency of your primary ingredients directly influences the rich texture and deep flavor profile of this incredible spread. Ensure your measurements account for any water loss from thawing fruit to maintain the perfect jam consistency while achieving that essential tropical twist we seek.

What substitutes work best if I don’t have pectin for thickening the jam?

If pectin is unavailable, agar-agar powder is an excellent plant-based alternative that provides a firm, clear set without altering the fruity flavor. Start by dissolving 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of agar-agar in a tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the vigorously boiling jam mixture for two minutes just before removing the pot from the heat. Alternatively, Chia seeds can be used for thickening, although they result in a slightly grainier texture which some people enjoy. We highly recommend using a dedicated setting agent to ensure the firm, unique consistency required for the Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam, preventing it from turning into a simple fruit sauce.

How long does homemade Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam last in the refrigerator?

When properly sealed in meticulously sterilized jars and stored correctly, this homemade jam will maintain its exceptional freshness and vibrant tropical flavor for up to four weeks in the refrigerator. Since this recipe utilizes a quick-set method and does not include traditional high-heat water bath canning, immediate refrigeration after cooling is essential for safe storage. Always use clean, dry utensils when scooping out the jam to prevent contamination from bacteria. If you notice any signs of mold growth or an unexpected off smell, discard the product immediately, ensuring that your delightful tropical treat remains safe and delicious every time you serve it.

Does the jam taste sour because of the reduced grape concentrate used for flavor complexity?

No, the jam does not taste sour; rather, the rich reduced concentrate and the hint of acid are incorporated specifically to achieve a necessary flavor contrast and deeper profile, balancing the overwhelming sweetness inherent in the ripe bananas and brown sugar. This careful technique adds an underlying richness and savory depth, cleverly mimicking the complexity of aged or slow-fermented fruit, which is crucial for achieving the “drunken” profile without using alcohol. The overall flavor remains distinctly tropical, warmly sweet, and beautifully spiced, making the final Drunken Monkey Banana pineapple juice Jam incredibly palatable and uniquely flavorful on toast or crackers.

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