If you’re looking for a unique and delicious dessert idea, look no further than sweet plantains. Known for their versatility in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, plantains can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. While many people may be more familiar with savory plantain dishes like tostones or mofongo, sweet plantain desserts are just as delicious and worth trying.
Sweet plantains are ripe plantains that have a dark yellow or almost black skin. They are naturally sweet and can be used in a variety of dessert recipes. From cakes to pies to puddings, the possibilities are endless. Sweet plantains can be baked, fried, grilled, or mashed to create unique and flavorful desserts.
Not only are sweet plantain desserts delicious, but they also offer a range of health benefits. Plantains are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
They are also gluten-free and low in fat, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions or health concerns. In this list of 10 Sweet Plantain Desserts, we’ll explore some of the most mouth-watering and unique ways to use sweet plantains in desserts. Whether you’re a plantain enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these desserts are sure to impress.
1. Sweet Plantain Tarts
As someone who enjoys exploring different cuisines, I was excited to come across this recipe for Perfect Baked Plantains by A Spicy Perspective. I love this recipe because it is simple, yet yields a delicious and satisfying result. The plantains come out perfectly baked and caramelized, with just the right amount of sweetness.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is the versatility of the baked plantains. They can be served as a sweet side dish, paired with savory entrees, or used as a base for other dessert recipes. The recipe is also incredibly easy to follow and requires minimal prep work, making it a great option for busy weeknights or for entertaining guests.
Additionally, this recipe is a healthier alternative to fried plantains, which are often heavily fried and loaded with excess oil. The baked plantains are a guilt-free indulgence, and can be enjoyed by people with different dietary restrictions since they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 2 large green plantains
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
- Cut the ends off the plantains and score the skin lengthwise with a knife. Peel the skin off and discard.
- Cut the plantains into 1/2-inch slices.
- In a large bowl, toss the plantain slices with vegetable oil and salt.
- Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake the plantains for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the plantains from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Serve the plantains hot, sprinkled with a little extra salt if desired.
2. Plantain Rum Cake
I absolutely love the Banana Rum Cake recipe from Spiced Blog! As a fan of both bananas and rum, this recipe is the perfect combination of flavors for me. The moist, flavorful cake is infused with rum, giving it a delicious and unique taste that sets it apart from other cakes.
What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. The instructions are straightforward and the ingredients are readily available in most kitchens. The cake batter comes together quickly, and the rum glaze is a breeze to whip up.
When I make this cake, I love the way my kitchen smells as it bakes – the scent of ripe bananas and rum fills the room and is almost too good to resist. And when it’s ready, the cake is beautifully golden-brown and has a slightly crisp outer layer that gives way to a soft, moist center. The best part, however, is the taste. The combination of bananas and rum is pure magic. Each bite is bursting with flavor and the rum glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the cake.
Ingredients
for the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 bananas)
- 2 Tbsp dark rum
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Ingredients for the Rum Glaze:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup dark rum
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan with butter and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition.
- Add the mashed bananas, rum, and vanilla extract to the bowl with the butter mixture and stir until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture in 3 parts, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, make the rum glaze by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the sugar and rum, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens.
- Once the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Use a toothpick to poke several holes in the top of the cake, and then pour the rum glaze over the cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
3. Fried Sweet Plantain Chips with Cinnamon Sugar
absolutely adore the Baked Plantain Chips recipe from The Novice Chef Blog! As someone who is always looking for healthier snack options, these chips are the perfect solution. Not only are they crispy and flavorful, but they’re also much better for you than traditional potato chips.
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a few ingredients, and minimal prep time, I can have a batch of delicious plantain chips ready to snack on in no time. The recipe calls for just three ingredients: plantains, olive oil, and salt. That’s it! It’s incredibly easy to follow and the end result is always delicious.
When I make these chips, I love the way my kitchen smells as they bake – the aroma of ripe plantains and olive oil fills the room and is almost too good to resist. And when they’re ready, the chips are beautifully golden-brown and have a satisfying crunch that is simply irresistible. The best part, however, is the taste. The combination of the sweetness of the plantains with the saltiness of the olive oil and salt is the perfect balance of flavors. Each chip is bursting with flavor and is a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe plantains
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Cut off the ends of the plantains and slice the skin lengthwise. Peel off the skin and discard it. Cut the plantains into thin slices (about 1/8 inch thick).
- Place the plantain slices in a bowl and add the olive oil and salt. Toss the slices until they are well coated.
- Place the plantain slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to brown.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and use a spatula to flip the plantain slices over. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the plantain slices are crispy and golden-brown.
- Remove the plantain chips from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
- Serve the chips as a snack, or use them as a topping for salads or bowls.
4. Plantain Bread Pudding
I absolutely love the Perfect Baked Plantains recipe from A Spicy Perspective! This recipe has quickly become one of my favorites as it offers a healthier alternative to fried plantains while still retaining all the delicious flavors.
One of the things I love about this recipe is its simplicity. With just three ingredients – plantains, olive oil, and salt – and a short cooking time, I can easily whip up a batch of delicious and healthy plantains in no time. The recipe also offers versatility, as I can adjust the seasoning to my taste preferences, adding spices like chili powder or paprika for an extra kick.
When I make these plantains, I love the way they smell as they bake – the aroma of ripe plantains and olive oil fills the kitchen and is simply irresistible. And when they’re done, the plantains have a perfect golden-brown color, and are crispy on the outside while still tender on the inside. The best part about this recipe, however, is the taste. The plantains are naturally sweet and the addition of salt and olive oil enhances their flavor. The end result is a delicious and nutritious snack that is perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe plantains
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Cut off the ends of the plantains and slice the skin lengthwise. Peel off the skin and discard it. Cut the plantains into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- Place the plantain slices in a bowl and add the olive oil and salt. Toss the slices until they are well coated.
- Place the plantain slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges start to brown.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and use a spatula to flip the plantain slices over. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the plantain slices are crispy and golden-brown.
- Remove the plantains from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
- Serve the plantains as a side dish or snack, and enjoy their delicious and nutritious flavors.
5. Plantain Flan
The Puerto Rican Flan recipe from Salima’s Kitchen has quickly become one of my favorite desserts to make. As someone who has a sweet tooth and loves trying new recipes, this one stood out to me because of its unique combination of flavors and textures.
One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, including sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and eggs, I can create a rich and creamy dessert that is sure to impress. The recipe is also versatile, allowing me to experiment with different flavors such as coconut or caramel.
Another reason I love this recipe is the way it looks. The flan has a beautiful golden-brown color and a smooth, velvety texture that is irresistible. I also appreciate the contrast of the creamy flan with the sweet caramel sauce that oozes out of each slice.
Most importantly, however, is the delicious taste of this Puerto Rican Flan. It’s not too sweet, and the combination of the custard with the caramel sauce is simply heavenly. Each bite is smooth and creamy, with a hint of vanilla and caramel that makes it hard to stop at just one slice.
Ingredients:
For the caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the flan:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the caramel: In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture starts to boil, stop stirring and let it cook until it turns a deep amber color. Pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside.
- In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and eggs. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the caramel in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish in a large roasting pan. Add enough hot water to the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center of the flan is set. You can check if it’s done by inserting a knife into the center of the flan – if it comes out clean, it’s done.
- Remove the baking dish from the roasting pan and let it cool to room temperature.
- Once the flan has cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- To serve, run a knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it. Invert the baking dish onto a large plate, and carefully remove the baking dish to reveal the caramel on top of the flan.
- Slice and serve the Puerto Rican Flan, and enjoy its rich and creamy texture and delicious caramel flavor.
6. Caramelized Plantain Ice Cream
The Dark Chocolate Coconut Ice Cream recipe from The Cook’s Treat has quickly become one of my go-to desserts, especially when I’m looking for a dairy-free and refined sugar-free option. As someone who loves chocolate and coconut, this recipe stood out to me because of its unique blend of flavors.
One of the things I love about this recipe is how simple it is to make. With just a few ingredients, including coconut cream, cocoa powder, and honey, I can create a rich and creamy ice cream that is both delicious and healthy. The recipe is also versatile, allowing me to experiment with different flavors such as adding chopped nuts or swapping the cocoa powder for other flavorings.
Another reason I love this recipe is the way it looks. The ice cream has a beautiful dark chocolate color and a smooth, velvety texture that is irresistible. I also appreciate the contrast of the rich chocolate flavor with the subtle sweetness of the honey. Most importantly, however, is the delicious taste of this Dark Chocolate Coconut Ice Cream. It’s not too sweet, and the combination of the coconut cream and cocoa powder creates a rich and creamy flavor that is simply heavenly. Each bite is smooth and satisfying, making it hard to resist another scoop.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut cream, chilled
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Chill the coconut cream in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder and honey, and mix well.
- Add the chilled coconut cream and vanilla extract to the mixing bowl, and use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend everything together until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker, and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the ice cream is thick and creamy.
- Once the ice cream has reached your desired consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
- Scoop and serve the Dark Chocolate Coconut Ice Cream, and enjoy its rich, creamy texture and delicious flavor.
7. Plantain Fritters with Honey Drizzle
As someone who grew up in West Africa, plantains have always been a staple ingredient in my family’s kitchen. So, when I stumbled upon this recipe for Plantain Fritters (Klako) by African Bites, I knew I had to give it a try. Not only does this recipe remind me of my childhood, but it also offers a unique twist on the traditional plantain dishes I’m used to.
One of the things I love about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients – ripe plantains, onions, eggs, flour, and spices – I can create a delicious and satisfying snack or side dish that is both flavorful and filling. The recipe is also versatile, allowing me to adjust the seasoning to my liking or add other ingredients to create a variation of the dish.
Another reason why I love this recipe is its texture. The outside of the fritters is crispy, while the inside is soft and chewy, making each bite a delightful experience. The sweetness of the plantains and the savoriness of the onions blend perfectly, creating a unique and delicious taste. Finally, this recipe offers a healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks. By using a shallow pan to cook the fritters instead of deep-frying them, I can indulge in a tasty treat without feeling guilty. It’s a great way to incorporate more plantains into my diet while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe plantains
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Peel the ripe plantains and cut them into small pieces. Place them in a bowl and mash them using a fork until smooth.
- Add the chopped onion, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the mashed plantains. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a shallow pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, use a spoon to drop the plantain mixture into the pan, forming small fritters.
- Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once the fritters are cooked, remove them from the pan using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve the Plantain Fritters (Klako) hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!
8. Chocolate Covered Plantain Bites
As a self-professed chocoholic and a fan of all things banana, I was immediately drawn to this recipe for Chocolate Banana Bites by The Hidden Veggies. Not only do these little bites of heaven satisfy my sweet tooth, but they’re also a guilt-free treat that I can enjoy anytime.
One of the things I love about this recipe is its simplicity. With just two ingredients – bananas and dairy-free chocolate chips – I can create a delicious and healthy dessert that is both easy and quick to make. I also appreciate that this recipe is dairy-free, making it a great option for anyone with dairy allergies or who follows a vegan lifestyle.
Another reason why I love this recipe is its versatility. While the basic recipe calls for just two ingredients, I can also add other ingredients like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or peanut butter to create a variation of the dish. This allows me to customize the recipe to my liking and create new and exciting flavors. Finally, these Chocolate Banana Bites are a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate treats. By using bananas as the base, I can indulge in a sweet and satisfying dessert while still getting the nutritional benefits of this fruit. The dairy-free chocolate chips are also a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate, making this recipe a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Peel the ripe bananas and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Dip the banana slices into the melted chocolate, making sure they are completely coated.
- Place the chocolate-coated banana slices onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm.
- Once the chocolate is firm, remove the banana bites from the freezer and serve.
9. Sweet Plantain Empanadas
I love exploring international cuisine, and the Gluten-Free Empanadas recipe from Kitchen Frau is one of my favorites. This recipe introduces me to the authentic flavors of Dominican Republic cuisine and allows me to enjoy traditional empanadas in a gluten-free version.
One of the things I love about this recipe is the use of plantain dough instead of traditional wheat flour dough. Not only is it gluten-free, but it adds a unique flavor and texture to the empanadas. The filling is also a combination of flavorful ingredients like ground beef, onions, olives, and raisins that are sure to satisfy my taste buds.
I also appreciate the step-by-step instructions and photos that accompany this recipe, making it easy for even novice cooks to prepare these empanadas. The recipe is versatile as well, allowing me to customize the filling with my favorite ingredients or adjust the spices to my taste. Another reason why I love this recipe is the nostalgic feeling it gives me. It reminds me of the times when I used to visit my favorite Dominican Republic restaurant and enjoyed their delicious empanadas. Now, with this recipe, I can recreate that same experience at home.
Ingredients
For the Plantain Dough:
- 3 large ripe plantains
- 3/4 cup masa harina (corn flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2-3 tablespoons oil
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped green olives
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup water
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
- Peel the plantains and place them in a pot of boiling water. Cook until they are soft, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the plantains and mash them with a fork or potato masher.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed plantains with masa harina, salt, baking powder, and oil. Mix until it forms a dough.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
- Add the salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the raisins, olives, tomato paste, and water. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Roll out the plantain dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut out circles with a cookie cutter or cup. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the beef filling on one side of the circle.
- Fold the other side over the filling and use a fork to crimp the edges together.
- Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and brush them with the egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.
10. Plantain Custard Pie
As someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen and try out new recipes, I was immediately drawn to the idea of plantain tortillas when I came across this recipe. I’m always on the lookout for healthier alternatives to traditional dishes, and these tortillas, made with just two simple ingredients – ripe plantains and salt – are a fantastic example of that.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. These tortillas can be used in so many different ways – as a wrap for tacos or burritos, as a base for a pizza, or even as a substitute for bread. Plus, the fact that they’re gluten-free and grain-free makes them a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.
Making the tortillas is also surprisingly easy, with the plantains simply needing to be mashed and formed into a dough before being cooked on a skillet. The end result is a soft, pliable tortilla with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of fillings and toppings.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe plantains
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Oil or cooking spray for cooking
Instructions:
- Peel the plantains and cut them into small pieces. Place them in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
- Add salt to the plantain mixture and stir until well combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with oil or cooking spray.
- Using a spoon, drop about 1/4 cup of the plantain mixture onto the skillet, spreading it out to form a thin round tortilla.
- Cook the tortilla for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned and crispy.
- Repeat with the remaining plantain mixture, making sure to lightly coat the skillet with oil or cooking spray before cooking each tortilla.
- Serve the tortillas warm, with your desired filling or topping.
Conclusion
Thank you for exploring this list of 10 Sweet Plantain Desserts with me. Sweet plantains are a delicious and unique ingredient that can add a touch of tropical flavor to any dessert. I hope that these recipes have inspired you to try something new and experiment with different ways of using sweet plantains in your baking. Whether you prefer traditional Caribbean and Latin American desserts or want to add a modern twist to your desserts, sweet plantains offer a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can take your desserts to the next level. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy these delectable treats!
