Last Updated July 10, 2025 – Originally Published May 23, 2009
Featured Comment:
I love this recipe, and so does my husband! So easy too! (I am notorious for making a huge mess on the stove when I make jam.) Thanks!! ~ Jobebre
Did I mention that my bread machine can make jam? It really can. Many modern bread machines include a jam setting that cooks and thickens fruit without the need to stand at the stove. Using that feature turns ripe bananas into a smooth, spreadable refrigerator jam that’s perfect on toast, swirled into yogurt, or spooned over ice cream.
Banana jam in the bread machine
Banana jam is a simple refrigerator-style jam, not a long-term canned preserve. It develops a sweet, slightly caramelized banana flavor and a thick, spoonable texture. Because bananas have a mild flavor, the bright acidity of lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and keeps the color pleasing. This recipe is straightforward, forgiving, and ideal when you have several very ripe bananas to use up.
Banana Facts
Bananas are a convenient, nutrient-dense fruit. They provide several vitamins and minerals commonly associated with fruit nutrition, including:
- Vitamin B6
- Manganese
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Dietary fiber
- Protein
- Magnesium
- Folate
- Riboflavin (B2)
- Niacin (B3)
- Iron
Banana Jam Recipe – Two Pound Machine
Ingredients:
- 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
- Juice of 3 lemons (or enough to provide a noticeable tartness)
- Granulated sugar — use about 1 cup of sugar for every 1 cup of banana-lemon mixture (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Mash the bananas until mostly smooth. If you prefer a chunkier jam, leave some small pieces; for a silkier jam, mash thoroughly or briefly pulse in a food processor.
- Stir the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the mashed bananas. Measure the combined volume so you can add the correct amount of sugar. For most batches with three medium-to-large bananas you should have roughly 2 cups of banana-lemon mixture.
- Pour the banana and lemon mixture into the bread machine pan. Add one cup of sugar for each cup of the mixture. Stir gently to combine if your machine’s manual recommends adding sugar on top.
- Place the pan into the bread machine and select the jam setting. Start the cycle. Cooking time will vary by machine, but expect around an hour to an hour and a half. The machine will cook and stir the fruit until it reaches a thickened, jam-like consistency.
- When the cycle finishes, carefully remove the pan. Skim off any froth from the surface with a spoon or small sieve. Allow the jam to cool slightly, then transfer to clean jars or containers.
Notes and tips:
- Texture: This is a refrigerator jam rather than a shelf-stable preserve. If you want a firmer set, reduce the liquid slightly or cook a bit longer, but follow your bread machine’s guidelines.
- Sweetness: Taste before transferring to storage. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce sugar by up to 25%—bear in mind that sugar helps texture and preservation.
- Flavor variations: Stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon or a splash of vanilla after cooking for a warm or aromatic note. Adding a small amount of mashed ripe berries or a few tablespoons of fruit preserves can create interesting blends.
- Batch size: This recipe is written for a two-pound bread machine pan. Adjust quantities proportionally for smaller or larger pans.
Storage and shelf life:
Because this is a refrigerator jam, store it in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about three weeks when refrigerated. Always use a clean spoon to avoid introducing contaminants that shorten shelf life. If you plan to store longer, consider canning using proper water-bath or pressure canning methods designed for jams and follow safe preservation guidelines.
Serving suggestions:
- Spread on toast, bagels, or warm scones
- Swirl into plain or vanilla yogurt for breakfast or snacks
- Top pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal
- Use as a topping for ice cream or pound cake
- Stir a spoonful into smoothies for extra banana flavor
This bread machine banana jam is an easy, low-effort way to turn overripe bananas into something delicious and versatile. With minimal hands-on time and simple ingredients, it’s a handy recipe to keep in your rotation.