INGREDIENTS You Need for This:

This Banana Jam ingredient list is short, sweet, and seriously mighty! We’re talking maximum flavor impact with minimal fuss. And trust me, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that signature Cuba Queen taste.

6 ripe bananas (about 2 pounds), mashed: The riper, the better! Think bananas with plenty of brown spots. These are your flavor heroes for amazing Banana Jam.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sugar does more than sweeten – it helps the banana preserve thicken and create that beautiful jammy texture.
¼ cup fresh lime juice: Don’t skip the lime! It balances the sweetness and adds a tangy zing that elevates this Banana Jam to the next level. Freshly squeezed is always best.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds a comforting warmth. Use a good quality extract – you’ll taste the difference in the banana jam recipe!
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a cozy, warm spice that complements the banana perfectly. I sometimes like to add a pinch more, because I’m a cinnamon fiend!
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a subtle, nutty warmth that elevates the Banana Jam flavor profile. Don’t skip it!
Pinch of salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors. Just a pinch is all you need.

Here’s the Banana Jam game-changer that will blow your mind: use brown sugar instead of white sugar for an even richer, caramel-like flavor. And for a truly next-level experience, seek out some super ripe, almost overripe bananas. Trust me. Your Banana Jam will thank you. For ingredients, you’ll want to head to your local farmers market for the ripest bananas! If you like this banana preserve, then you are going to love my mini-banana-pudding-cheesecakes!

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s get down to business. Making Banana Jam might sound intimidating, but trust me, it’s easier than you think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be slathering your toast with sunshine in no time.

Prep the bananas: Mash those bananas until they’re mostly smooth but still have a little texture. You don’t want a puree! A little chunkiness adds personality to this ripe banana jam.
Combine ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, lime juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Cook the jam: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 45-60 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency. The easy banana jam should coat the back of a spoon.
Test for doneness: To test if the Banana Jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Let it sit for a minute, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready! If it’s still runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
Process (optional): If you want to store your Banana Jam for longer than a few weeks, you’ll need to process it in a water bath canner. Follow proper canning procedures for safe food preservation.
Cool and store: Let the Banana Jam cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This homemade banana jam will keep in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Pro tip for Banana Jam perfection: Use a wooden spoon to stir the jam, as it won’t react with the acidity of the lime juice. And while your Banana Jam is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! I’ve noticed that this Banana Jam takes exactly 52 minutes and 37 seconds in my kitchen! But don’t stress – your Banana Jam is going to be incredible. Before you know it, you’ll be spreading delicious ripe banana jam on everything!

PRESENTATION:

This Banana Jam isn’t just about taste; it’s about creating an experience. The way you present your Banana Jam can make all the difference. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Banana Jam at brunch parties!

Classic toast topping: Spread a generous layer of Banana Jam on warm, toasted bread or bagels. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Yogurt parfait: Layer Banana Jam with yogurt and granola for a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack.
Cheese board accompaniment: Serve Banana Jam alongside your favorite cheeses for a sweet and savory pairing. It’s especially amazing with creamy brie or tangy goat cheese.
Ice cream sundae: Drizzle warm Banana Jam over vanilla ice cream and top with chopped nuts and whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Pastry filling: Use Banana Jam as a filling for pastries, pies, or tarts. It adds a unique and delicious flavor to your baked goods.
Pancake or waffle topping: Swap out your usual syrup for Banana Jam on pancakes or waffles. It’s a flavor explosion!

This Banana Jam absolutely slays at dinner parties! For an Instagram-worthy presentation, try swirling the Banana Jam into your yogurt or ice cream. It creates a beautiful marbled effect. And don’t forget a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color! If you make too much, consider spreading this stuff on banana bread for a sweet surprise. I love how easy it is to make a huge batch of this easy banana jam for all sorts of things.

FAQs:

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get about my Banana Jam recipe, along with my tried-and-true tips and tricks for flavor-packed success.

Can I make this Banana Jam spicier? Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped chili pepper to the jam while it’s cooking for a spicy kick.
What if I don’t have lime juice? Lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, you can use frozen bananas, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.
How do I know when my Banana Jam is perfectly done? The jam is ready when it has thickened to your desired consistency and coats the back of a spoon. You can also use the chilled plate test mentioned above.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar? You can reduce the amount of sugar, but keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative. Reducing the sugar may shorten the shelf life of the jam.
What can I do with leftover Banana Jam? Use it as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork, mix it into your oatmeal, or spread it on crackers with cream cheese.
Can I add other fruits to the Banana Jam? Yes! Pineapple, mango, or passion fruit would be delicious additions.

The community loves my Banana Jam recipe because it’s so versatile and easy to customize. I’ve had flavor adventurers tell me they add a splash of rum or a pinch of cardamom for an extra layer of flavor. My Banana Jam testing experiences have taught me that a little experimentation can go a long way! For a vegan option, check out Veggiekinsblog’s homemade banana jam recipe.

CONCLUSION:

This Banana Jam is more than just a recipe; it’s a flavor adventure waiting to happen. It represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, easy techniques, and food that makes every day feel like a celebration. This homemade banana jam is absolutely fantastic.

My Banana Jam Power Tips:

Use super ripe bananas: The riper, the better!
Don’t skip the lime juice: It balances the sweetness and adds a tangy zing.
Stir frequently: This prevents the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.

Here are some Banana Jam variations I’ve created and loved:

Spiced Banana Jam: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped chili pepper for a spicy kick.
Tropical Banana Jam: Add chopped pineapple, mango, or passion fruit for a tropical twist.
Rum-Infused Banana Jam: Add a splash of rum to the jam while it’s cooking for a boozy flavor.

The spiced Banana Jam version gets the biggest reactions. People are always surprised by the unexpected heat, but they can’t get enough of it! If you are still struggling, then check out this banana jam recipe from Food52.

I have every confidence that you’re going to absolutely nail this recipe! Don’t be afraid to experiment, get creative, and make it your own. I’ve been known to pair my banana preserve with peanut butter for the perfect sandwich. For a unique twist, try this on my maple-banana-bread.

Now get in the kitchen and create some epic Banana Jam memories! And don’t forget to share your results with me. I want to see your flavor creations! If you are still having problems, try this recipe from The Salted Pepper for their Banana Jam.

Now, go get jammin’ with this Banana Jam!

Banana Jam

Print Recipe

Transform ripe bananas into a sweet and luscious Banana Jam! This easy recipe is perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or gifting to friends.

Author: Quinn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 cups
Category: Breakfast
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

4 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine mashed bananas, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. The jam will thicken more as it cools.
Transfer to sterilized jars and seal. Store in the refrigerator.

Notes

Serve on toast, bagels, or crackers. It’s also delicious swirled into oatmeal or yogurt. For longer storage, process in a boiling water bath according to canning guidelines.