Caramelized Banana Jam

This silky, golden caramelized banana jam transforms ripe bananas into a luscious spread that tastes like a spoonable version of Bananas Foster. Rich, fruity, caramel-sweet, and kissed with vanilla and lime, it’s perfect for toast, biscuits, yogurt, pancakes, ice cream, or gifting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramelized banana jam is a beautiful balance of deep caramel flavor and bright banana sweetness. It requires only a handful of pantry ingredients, comes together surprisingly quickly, and provides a delightful new way to use ripe bananas. The texture becomes glossy and smooth as the bananas break down, making it a luxurious spread for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 5 medium ripe bananas, thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Combine the sugar and water in a large 2-quart microwave-safe Pyrex bowl. Stir gently to blend. Cover tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap and poke 6–8 vent holes.
2. Microwave on high for 10 minutes. The mixture will just begin to change color. Continue microwaving in 2-minute intervals until the caramel turns a golden brown, usually around 14–15 minutes total.
3. While the caramel cooks, thinly slice the bananas and place them in a medium-large pot.
4. Carefully remove the caramel from the microwave using oven mitts. Pull the plastic wrap away from your face and immediately pour the hot caramel into the pot with the bananas. Do not scrape the bowl.
5. Heat the banana mixture over medium until bubbly, then reduce to a low, steady simmer. Cook 15–20 minutes until thickened, glossy, and the bananas begin to break down.
6. Stir in the salt, remove from heat, then add the lime juice and vanilla.
7. Allow to cool slightly, then transfer to clean jars. Refrigerate for up to 1 month.
8. Serve on toast, biscuits, yogurt, pancakes, or warm over ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 3 cups of jam.
Total time is approximately 40–45 minutes, including caramelizing and simmering.

Variations

• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor note.
• Stir in a small splash of lemon instead of lime for a brighter finish.
• Add a tablespoon of butter to the finished jam for extra richness.
• Blend the jam after cooling for a smoother, more spreadable texture.
• Mix in a handful of finely chopped toasted nuts after cooking for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store the jam in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
To warm, gently heat a spoonful in a small saucepan or microwave for a few seconds until softened and glossy. Do not boil after storing.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

Use bananas that are fully yellow with plenty of brown spots—sweet and soft but not mushy or black.

Can I use partially green bananas?

No. Bananas with green areas lack sweetness and do not break down well, resulting in a less flavorful jam.

Can this jam be canned?

This recipe is not designed for long-term canning. Store it refrigerated and use within a month.

My caramel crystallized. What went wrong?

Crystallization can happen if the mixture is stirred too much or if sugar crystals on the bowl fall into the syrup. Using the microwave method reduces this risk.

Can I make this on the stovetop instead of the microwave?

Yes, but stovetop caramel can burn easily. Watch closely and cook over medium heat until golden.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Reducing the sugar will alter both texture and shelf life. Sugar acts as a thickener and preservative in this recipe.

Can I freeze the jam?

Yes. Cool completely, place in freezer-safe jars, and freeze for up to 3 months.

What should I do if the jam becomes too thick?

Stir in a teaspoon or two of warm water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but simmering may take longer and caramelizing in the microwave should be done in batches to avoid overflow.

Why add lime juice?

Lime juice brightens the flavor and balances the caramel sweetness, giving the jam a more complex taste.

Conclusion

Caramelized banana jam is a simple yet decadent treat that brings out the very best in ripe bananas. With its rich caramel undertones, fragrant vanilla, and a hint of citrus, it’s an irresistible spread for breakfast or dessert. Easy to make and delightful to gift, this recipe is sure to become a favorite way to transform everyday bananas into something exceptional.

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