We’ve always loved experimenting with global flavors, and our plantain waffle recipe brings a tropical twist to your breakfast table. Drawing from Caribbean roots, these waffles turn ripe plantains into a crispy, golden delight that’s both savory and sweet.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility—we’ll show you how to whip up a dish that’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy brunches. Join us as we dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
We know that crafting the perfect Plantain Waffle starts with selecting the right ingredients, drawing from our Caribbean-inspired recipe for that irresistible blend of savory and sweet. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order we’ll use them, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Ripe plantains (2 medium-sized, mashed): These form the heart of our waffles, offering a naturally sweet, tropical flavor that infuses every bite with authentic Caribbean essence.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): We’ll add this next for structure, ensuring our waffles achieve a light and fluffy texture.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): These bind the batter together, providing richness and helping create a golden-brown finish.
- Milk (1/2 cup, whole or plant-based): Stir this in to achieve the ideal batter consistency—we prefer it at room temperature for even mixing.
- Baking powder (2 teaspoons): This leavening agent goes in to make our waffles rise perfectly, giving them that crave-worthy crispiness.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Added for a subtle sweetness that complements the plantains without overpowering their natural taste.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of this enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness for a more complex profile.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Finally, incorporate this for moisture and a buttery depth that makes our waffles truly irresistible.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our essential ingredients, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft irresistible plantain waffles. Follow our precise instructions to achieve a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors in every bite.
Prepare the Plantains
Begin by selecting 2 large ripe plantains—they should be yellow with black spots for optimal sweetness and mashability. Peel the plantains carefully to remove the tough skin, then slice them into 1-inch chunks. In a medium bowl, mash the chunks with a fork or potato masher until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture with no large lumps, releasing their natural tropical aroma that hints at the delightful flavor ahead.
Make the Batter
In the same bowl with the mashed plantains, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt—whisk these dry ingredients together first for even distribution. Next, incorporate 2 beaten eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a thick, pourable batter with a subtle sweetness and golden hue. We ensure the batter is lump-free and aromatic, promising waffles that are fluffy inside and crisp on the outside.
Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a brush of melted butter to prevent sticking. Pour about ½ cup of batter onto the center of the iron, spreading it gently for even coverage—cook for 4-5 minutes until the waffles turn a golden-brown color with a crispy exterior and soft, moist interior, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent of caramelized plantains. Repeat with the remaining batter, aiming for 4-6 waffles depending on your iron’s size.
Serve the Waffles
Once cooked, transfer the hot waffles to a plate and serve them immediately for the best texture. Top with fresh options like sliced bananas, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance their sweet and savory profile, allowing the flavors to complement each other for a satisfying, versatile meal that pairs well with coffee or yogurt.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this plantain waffle recipe and how it brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table. It’s a simple way to add excitement to your mornings while enjoying that perfect balance of flavors.
Give it a try and make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, these waffles offer endless possibilities for delicious, nutritious meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plantain waffle?
A plantain waffle is a delicious twist on traditional waffles, inspired by Caribbean cuisine. It uses ripe plantains for a natural sweetness, combined with simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk to create a savory-sweet breakfast treat. This recipe is easy, versatile, and perfect for busy mornings or brunches, blending global flavors into a satisfying meal.
What ingredients do I need for plantain waffles?
You’ll need ripe plantains for sweetness, all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, milk, baking powder, granulated sugar, salt, and melted butter. These essentials create a thick, pourable batter with an authentic Caribbean essence. Focus on using ripe plantains to ensure the best flavor and texture in your waffles.
How do I make plantain waffles?
Start by mashing ripe plantains until smooth. Mix with dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt, then add eggs, milk, and melted butter for a pourable batter. Preheat your waffle iron, pour in the batter, and cook until golden brown. Serve hot for the best results.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat for a healthier option, or use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version. Keep ripe plantains as the base for flavor. Experiment with additions like vanilla extract, but avoid over-substituting to maintain the authentic taste.
How do I know if plantains are ripe for this recipe?
Ripe plantains are yellow with black spots and feel soft when gently squeezed. They’re sweeter and easier to mash, which is key for the waffle’s flavor. Avoid green plantains, as they’re starchy and not ideal for this sweet-savory recipe.
What are some serving suggestions for plantain waffles?
Top your waffles with sliced bananas, honey, cinnamon, or fresh fruits for extra sweetness. Pair with yogurt or nuts for a balanced meal. They’re great for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, enhancing the Caribbean-inspired flavors while keeping it simple and customizable.