Easy Monkey Butter Recipe for Canning: A Step-by-Step Guide
Love the sweet, nutty taste of monkey butter but dread the thought of it spoiling? Canning is the perfect solution to preserve this delicious spread and enjoy it year-round. This easy monkey butter recipe for canning is not only simple to follow but also ensures a high-quality, shelf-stable product.
What is Monkey Butter?
Monkey butter, also known as peanut butter's cousin, is a creamy and spreadable nut butter made from peanuts, bananas, and honey. It's a healthier alternative to traditional peanut butter, packed with natural sugars, healthy fats, and protein. The addition of bananas gives it a unique, fruity twist that's perfect for spreading on toast, filling sandwiches, or even eating straight from the jar!
Benefits of Canning Monkey Butter
- Long Shelf Life: Canning extends the shelf life of monkey butter, allowing you to enjoy it for up to a year.
- Convenience: Once canned, monkey butter is ready to use straight from the jar, no refrigeration needed.
- Gift-Giving: Canned monkey butter makes a delicious and thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Ingredients and Equipment
Before you begin, gather your ingredients and equipment:
| Ingredients | Equipment |
|---|---|
| 4 cups roasted, unsalted peanuts | Food processor or high-powered blender |
| 2 ripe bananas | Canning jars and lids |
| 1/2 cup honey | Water bath canner |
| 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) | Kitchen scale (optional) |
Easy Monkey Butter Recipe for Canning
Step 1: Prepare the Peanuts
Start by roasting your peanuts if they're raw. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), spread the peanuts on a baking sheet, and roast for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely.
Step 2: Blend the Peanuts
Transfer the cooled peanuts to your food processor or blender. Blend until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Add the Bananas and Honey
Peel and break the bananas into chunks, then add them to the food processor along with the honey and salt (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 4: Process the Monkey Butter
Continue blending, stopping to scrape down the sides, until the monkey butter reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Step 5: Prepare the Jars
While the monkey butter is processing, sterilize your canning jars and lids. You can do this by boiling them in a water bath canner or running them through a hot dishwasher cycle.
Step 6: Fill the Jars
Using a kitchen scale, fill each jar with 12 ounces (340 grams) of monkey butter. Leave about 1/2-inch headspace at the top of the jar.
Step 7: Seal the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids on top, and screw on the bands fingertip-tight.
Step 8: Process the Jars
Place the filled jars in the water bath canner, ensuring they're completely covered with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the jars process for 10 minutes.
Step 9: Cool and Store
After processing, remove the jars from the canner and let them cool undisturbed on a towel or rack for 24 hours. As the jars cool, you should hear a satisfying "pop" as the lids seal. Any jars that don't seal should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
Once cooled, label your canned monkey butter with the date and store it in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Enjoy your homemade, shelf-stable treat!
