Banana Jam Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about this banana jam recipe—a nostalgic blend of simple ingredients that transform into a luxurious spread, reminding me of cozy mornings at home. Plus, the optional cinnamon and vanilla add just the right touch of warmth and depth, making this an endlessly adaptable favorite for breakfast or dessert any day of the week!

Delightful it is to have a blend of mashed ripe bananas and sweet granulated sugar. That is what this recipe for Banana Jam provides, plus a little more that I enjoy about the jam.

Fresh lemon juice adds a bright tang that I love; and a pinch of salt enhances the flavors in a way that I really appreciate. A little bit of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract also makes this jam even cozier.

Ingredients

• Bananas: Rich in potassium and provide natural sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the jam.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: Optional spice that adds warmth and depth.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle sweet aroma and flavor.
• Water: Helps blend ingredients and reach desired consistency.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the jam.

Ingredient Quantities

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/4 cup water
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, mix together the following ingredients: the mashed bananas, the sugar, the lemon juice, the water, and a pinch of salt.

2. Put the saucepan on medium heat and stir the mixture gently until the sugar has dissolved and the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

3. If they are used, ground cinnamon and vanilla extract are added for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer with the occasional stirring.

5. Keep the combination on low heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Continue stirring while it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency—a sort of halfway point between sauce and syrup. If you ever want to double this recipe, just make sure to use a wider saucepan for more surface area and reduce your cooking time by 5 minutes.

6. While cooking the banana jam, watch it carefully and stir it more frequently as you approach the end of the cooking time. That way, it won’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

7. Once the jam has thickened, take the saucepan off the heat and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes.

8. Dispense the banana jam into sterilized jars or tight containers, leaving some headspace at the top.

9. Close the jars or containers and allow them to return to room temperature completely before handling.

10. Keep the banana jam in the fridge for a maximum of two weeks. Relish it with toast, pancakes, or as a dessert topping!

Equipment Needed

1. Medium saucepan
2. Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Masher or fork (for mashing bananas)
6. Sterilized jars or airtight containers
7. Ladle or funnel (optional, for dispensing jam)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use bananas that are not fully ripe?A: To get the optimum flavor and texture, you should use completely ripe bananas. These are the sweetest and softest, making them the ideal choice for banana jam.
• Q: How long will the banana jam keep?A: Refrigerated, within an airtight container, banana jam has a lifespan of 2-3 weeks.
• Q: Can I substitute the sugar with a different sweetener?A: Yes, you can replace the granulated sugar with alternatives such as honey or maple syrup, but be aware that this substitution may change the texture of the final product and its shelf life.
• Q: Is the addition of cinnamon and vanilla necessary?Optional but highly recommended: Cinnamon and vanilla for added depth of flavor.
• Q: Can this jam be frozen?A: Yes, you can freeze banana jam for up to 3-6 months. Make sure it’s kept in a container that’s safe for the freezer. And don’t forget to leave some space for the jam to expand when it freezes.
• Q: How can I use banana jam?A: Versatile banana jam can be spread on toast, added to oatmeal, used as a topping for ice cream, or even as a filling for pastries.
• Q: What texture should I expect from the banana jam?A: The smooth, spreadable jam, with just the right amount of chunky texture, from the mashed bananas, is finished.

Substitutions and Variations

An equal amount of honey or maple syrup can replace the granulated sugar, providing a different flavor profile.
Substitute fresh lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
Use nutmeg or a spice blend such as pumpkin spice in place of ground cinnamon for an aromatic warm twist.
For almond extract, try using vanilla extract for a non-nutty undertone.
To boost the sweetness of your smoothies naturally, try using ripe mangoes instead of some of the bananas. This adds a rich, tropical flavor that complements all the other smoothie ingredients. Plus, mangos are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A and C and several B vitamins, as well as fiber and a potent antioxidant called polyphenol.

Pro Tips

1. Ripe Bananas Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness. The bananas should have a lot of spots on the skin and be very soft.

2. Consistency Check To test the thickness of the jam, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute, and if it forms a gel-like texture and doesn’t run, it’s ready.

3. Flavor Enhancements For an added twist, try incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or a tablespoon of rum to enhance the jam’s complexity.

4. Storing Tips If you’d like the jam to last longer, consider using the proper canning method to vacuum seal the jars, extending its shelf life beyond the fridge.

5. Natural Sweetener Options To reduce refined sugar, substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup. Start by using a slightly smaller amount and adjust to taste.