Have you ever heard of monkey butter? It’s this delightful, sweet, and creamy spread that just screams comfort! Picture this: ripe bananas, rich peanut butter, and a sprinkle of shredded coconut all coming together to create a taste explosion. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a lazy Sunday brunch with friends, and it instantly became a favorite! It’s one of those spreads that can elevate your morning toast or even be the star of a fruit dip. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be slathering it on everything! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up and makes your kitchen smell like a tropical paradise. So, let’s dive right into making this scrumptious monkey butter that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients List
- 2 ripe bananas (the riper, the better for flavor!)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth and luscious)
- 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened for a more natural taste)
- 1/4 cup honey (adds sweetness and a hint of floral flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that lovely aromatic touch)
How to Prepare Monkey Butter
Making monkey butter is as simple as it is rewarding! You’ll want to start by mashing the ripe bananas in a bowl until they’re beautifully smooth. I like to use a fork for this; it gives me a bit of control and honestly, it’s kind of therapeutic! Once you’ve got that banana goodness ready, it’s time to add the creamy peanut butter. Just scoop it right in there and mix away until you see no streaks left. Then, toss in the shredded coconut, honey, and vanilla extract. This is where the magic happens—mix everything together until it’s all combined into a luscious spread.
Now, here’s a crucial tip: transfer your monkey butter to a jar and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This not only helps the flavors meld together beautifully but also gives it that perfect spreadable texture. Trust me, the wait is worth it! You’ll be amazed at how delicious it is once it’s had a little time to set. Now, let’s break it down step-by-step!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the 2 ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth.
- Add 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1/4 cup of honey, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Mix everything together thoroughly until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to monkey butter, you’re in for a tasty treat that offers a nice balance of flavors and nutrients! Each serving is about 2 tablespoons and packs in around 150 calories, making it a delightful addition to your snacks. It contains 8 grams of sugar, which comes from the honey and bananas, and about 10 grams of fat—perfectly healthy fats from the peanut butter and coconut!
Now, just a heads up: the nutritional content can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and the exact measurements, so these numbers are a general guide. But, with 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber, this spread is not only delicious but also gives you a little energy boost! Enjoy it guilt-free as a spread or dip, knowing you’re treating yourself to something wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—whip it up in just 10 minutes!
- Creamy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweetness from the bananas and honey.
- Versatile as a spread on toast, a dip for fruits, or even a topping for pancakes.
- Healthy option for snacks, packed with good fats and protein!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your monkey butter turns out absolutely perfect! First off, using ripe bananas is key. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your spread will be. You want those lovely brown spots to really amp up the taste! If you can, let those bananas sit out for a day or two after you buy them to reach peak ripeness.
Now, when it comes to the peanut butter, I highly recommend using a creamy variety. It gives the monkey butter that dreamy, velvety texture that makes it so irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a natural peanut butter – just make sure it’s well-mixed, so you get that smooth consistency!
Storage is super straightforward: keep your monkey butter in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. Just give it a good stir before you use it again; sometimes, the ingredients can settle a bit. And honestly, it makes for an incredible snack, so you might want to double the batch! Trust me, you’ll want this deliciousness on hand!
Variations
Now, if you’re feeling a little adventurous, let’s talk about some fun ways to switch up your monkey butter! This spread is super versatile, and you can easily customize it to your taste. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Nut Butter Swap: Why stick with just peanut butter? Try using almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Each nut butter brings its own unique taste and creaminess!
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder or chocolate chips to your monkey butter. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the bananas and peanut butter, creating a delightful treat!
- Spice It Up: Want to add a little warmth? Sprinkle in some cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg. It adds an extra layer of flavor that’s just divine!
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in some finely chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. It gives your monkey butter a chewy texture and a pop of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.
- Nutty Crunch: For those who love a bit of crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. It adds a satisfying texture that elevates the whole experience!
Feel free to play around with these variations and find your favorite combo. Each twist will give your monkey butter a new personality, making it even more exciting to enjoy! Happy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious monkey butter, you might be wondering how to enjoy it best! The great news is that this spread is incredibly versatile, and I’ve got some delightful serving ideas for you. First off, slather it on warm, toasted bread or bagels for a quick breakfast that feels like a treat. The creamy goodness pairs perfectly with the crunch of the toast!
But wait, there’s more! I love using monkey butter as a dip for fresh fruit. Think apple slices, bananas (yes, more bananas!), or juicy strawberries. It’s like a mini fruit party in every bite! You can even serve it at gatherings with a platter of assorted fruits, and I promise it’ll be a crowd-pleaser.
If you’re feeling a little indulgent, drizzle it over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup. It adds a tropical twist that’s just heavenly! And for those who enjoy a savory balance, try it as a topping for whole-grain rice cakes or spread it on a sandwich with slices of apple or pear. The combination of flavors is simply fantastic!
Honestly, you can get creative with this spread! Whether it’s a snack or part of a meal, monkey butter will elevate your culinary experience and bring a smile to your face every time. Enjoy every spoonful!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your monkey butter is super easy and ensures you can enjoy this delightful spread for days to come! Once you’ve made your batch, transfer it into an airtight container or a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid. This helps keep it fresh and prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in from the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks—though I doubt it’ll last that long, because it’s just too delicious!
Now, when you’re ready to enjoy your chilled monkey butter, just give it a good stir before using. Sometimes, the ingredients might settle a bit, and a quick mix will bring back that creamy texture. If you find it a little too firm straight out of the fridge, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This makes it even easier to spread on toast or dip into with fruit.
And here’s a little tip: if you happen to have any leftover monkey butter that you’re not going to use right away, you can also freeze it! Just scoop it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Perfect for a quick snack later on!
For more delicious recipes, check out this peanut butter cup cheesecake recipe or this creamy garlic butter chicken recipe!
Print
Monkey Butter: 5 Reasons You’ll Crave This Comforting Spread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 jar 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and creamy spread made with bananas, coconut, and peanut butter.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth.
- Add peanut butter, shredded coconut, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to a jar and refrigerate.
- Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for better flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Great on toast or as a dip for fruit.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Spread
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: monkey butter, banana spread, peanut butter spread
