If you are searching for a tropical twist on breakfast classics, this Plantain Pancakes Recipe will absolutely brighten your mornings. These pancakes are fluffy, naturally sweet, and carry that lovely tropical aroma unique to ripe plantains. Combining simple ingredients like coconut flour and coconut milk makes them not only delicious but also gluten-free and nourishing. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy comfort food with a sunny, exotic flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Plantain Pancakes Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the pancake’s texture, flavor, and moisture — balancing tropical sweetness with a subtle spice.
- Ripe plantains: Choose well-ripened yellow plantains with black spots for natural sweetness and softness.
- Eggs: They bind the batter and add richness.
- Coconut flour: Adds a light coconut flavor and helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
- Coconut milk: A creamy, dairy-free liquid that keeps the pancakes tender.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness with fragrant warmth.
- Baking powder: Gives the pancakes a gentle rise and airy puff.
- Cinnamon: Provides a warming spice note that pairs beautifully with plantains.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and rounds out all the flavors.
- Coconut oil or butter: For cooking, adds a subtle richness and prevents sticking.
How to Make Plantain Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Blend Your Batter
Start by peeling your ripe plantains and chopping them roughly to make blending easier. In your blender or food processor, combine plantains, eggs, coconut flour, coconut milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Blend everything until the batter is completely smooth and uniformly combined. This step ensures your pancakes will have an even texture and beautifully melded flavors.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small spoonful of coconut oil or butter to coat the surface. The right temperature is key here — too hot and the pancakes burn on the outside before cooking through, too low and they get soggy.
Step 3: Cook Your Pancakes
Pour roughly 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto your skillet, gently spreading it to form a perfect circle. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles begin to appear on the surface and the edges look set. This is your signal to flip carefully with a spatula and cook the other side for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Repeat and Serve Warm
Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches, adding more oil or butter as needed. Serve your beautiful plantain pancakes fresh off the pan for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Plantain Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
The simple, naturally sweet profile of these Plantain Pancakes Recipe calls for fresh, bright garnishes. Try topping your pancakes with slices of fresh banana or mango, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, or a dollop of nut butter for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of shredded coconut or chopped nuts can also add lovely texture and enhance the tropical vibe.
Side Dishes
To transform this recipe into a fuller meal, consider serving the plantain pancakes alongside some crispy bacon or sausages for a savory contrast. A fresh fruit salad or a side of yogurt with honey also complements the sweetness perfectly, making it an ideal brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, stack the plantain pancakes high and drizzle with a combination of chocolate sauce and toasted coconut flakes. Another fun presentation is to make mini pancakes as bite-sized treats, perfect for sharing at breakfast gatherings or as snack-time finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers from your Plantain Pancakes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Lining the container with paper towels helps maintain freshness and prevents sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze these pancakes for longer storage by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze quickly, then transferring them into a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months and make for a quick breakfast option anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pancakes in a toaster or oven for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped again. Avoid microwaving if possible; this can make them gummy instead of fluffy.
FAQs
Can I use unripe plantains for this recipe?
It’s best to use ripe plantains, as they bring sweetness and softness needed for this recipe. Unripe plantains are starchy and firm, which would affect both taste and texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Using coconut flour instead of traditional wheat flour makes this Plantain Pancakes Recipe naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute the coconut milk with regular milk?
Absolutely, you can use any milk of your choice, such as dairy milk or plant-based alternatives. Coconut milk enhances the tropical flavor, but feel free to adapt according to what you have on hand.
How do I know when the pancakes are cooked on the first side?
Look for bubbles forming on the surface and the edges starting to look set and firm. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes on medium heat.
Can I add other spices or flavors to the batter?
Definitely! Adding a touch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a splash of orange zest can elevate the flavor profile while keeping the recipe exciting and personalized.
Final Thoughts
This Plantain Pancakes Recipe offers a wonderfully fresh way to enjoy breakfast with a tropical twist. The ease of preparation combined with the rich, comforting taste makes it a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try, and let your mornings be filled with the warm, inviting flavors of plantains and coconut.
Print
Plantain Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and naturally sweet Plantain Pancakes made with ripe plantains, coconut flour, and coconut milk for a gluten-free and tropical twist on traditional pancakes. These fluffy pancakes are easy to prepare, cooked on a stovetop, and perfect for a nutritious breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Plantain Pancakes
- 2 ripe plantains, peeled
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup coconut milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Coconut oil or butter for cooking
Instructions
- Blend the Batter: In a blender or food processor, combine the peeled ripe plantains, eggs, coconut flour, coconut milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a thick pancake batter.
- Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of coconut oil or butter to coat the cooking surface, ensuring the pancakes won’t stick and will brown nicely.
- Pour the Batter: Pour approximately 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Spread the batter slightly with the back of the spoon or ladle to form a circular shape.
- Cook the Pancakes: Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until the edges are set and bubbles appear on the surface. Carefully flip each pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until both sides are golden brown and the pancakes are cooked through.
- Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches, adding more coconut oil or butter to the skillet as needed to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Serve Warm: Serve the pancakes hot with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, maple syrup, or nut butter for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the plantains are ripe (yellow with black spots) for natural sweetness and best flavor.
- You can substitute coconut milk with almond milk or regular milk depending on your preference.
- Adjust the thickness of the batter by adding a little more milk if it seems too thick.
- Use a non-stick skillet and moderate heat to avoid burning the pancakes.
- These pancakes are naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and coconut oil.
