Food

Jamaican Plantain Pancakes Recipe

A Taste of the Caribbean on Your Breakfast Plate

If you’ve ever had ripe fried plantains, then you know the sweet, caramelized flavor that makes them irresistible. Now imagine that flavor in soft, fluffy pancakes—perfect for breakfast or brunch. Jamaican Plantain Pancakes are a Caribbean twist on the classic breakfast favorite, made with ripe plantains (the sweeter, the better), warm spices, and a touch of vanilla.

These pancakes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can use any milk you prefer—coconut milk for a true island touch, or dairy/almond/oat milk if that’s what you have at home. For sweetness, sugar, honey, or even condensed milk will do the trick. They’re kid-friendly, naturally flavorful, and pair perfectly with syrup, fruit, or a pat of butter.

Jamaican Plantain Pancakes Recipe:

Ingredients:

 

  • 2 ripe plantains (yellow with black spots for natural sweetness)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder

  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons sugar, honey, or your preferred sweetener (adjust to taste)

  • 1 egg

  • 1 cup milk (coconut, almond, oat, or regular dairy)

  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for frying)

  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Mash or Blend the Plantains

  • Peel the ripe plantains and mash them with a fork until smooth.

  • For an extra fluffy batter, blend the plantains with the egg and milk in a blender until creamy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

  • Add the mashed/blended plantain mixture, vanilla, and sweetener to the dry ingredients.

  • Mix gently until combined. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

  • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and grease lightly with butter or oil.

  • Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake.

  • Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2–3 minutes), then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve warm with syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or even a dollop of yogurt.

  • For an island-style finish, drizzle with honey and top with sliced bananas or toasted coconut.

Tips & Variations

  • Use extra ripe plantains for more natural sweetness (reduce added sugar if desired).

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute with oat flour or a gluten-free blend.

  • Add a tablespoon of cornstarch if you want your pancakes to hold an extra firm, fluffy texture.

  • These pancakes reheat well—simply warm in the toaster or skillet.

Why You’ll Love It

Jamaican Plantain Pancakes bring a taste of the Caribbean right into your kitchen. They’re easy, customizable, and perfect for kids or adults. Whether you serve them on a lazy Sunday morning or make them ahead for busy weekdays, these pancakes will quickly become a family favorite.