Delicious Ripe Plantain Muffins for a Healthy Snack Fix

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The warm, inviting scent of cardamom and freshly baked muffins wafts through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. When I first discovered ripe plantains at my local market, I never expected them to transform into these delightful Ripe Plantain Muffins, or as my family affectionately calls them, nenthra pazham muffins. Bursting with natural sweetness and the earthy crunch of nigella seeds, these muffins are a wholesome way to kick off the day or indulge as a guilt-free snack any time.

As someone who often craves a homemade treat amid a fast-food frenzy, I appreciate recipes that don t require a myriad of complex ingredients or fancy equipment. This quick and easy recipe speaks to my busy lifestyle while still delivering on flavor and nutrition. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a batch of these gluten-free delights that bring joy to your breakfast table or cozy afternoon tea. So, let s dive into creating these irresistible muffins together!

Why Love Ripe Plantain Muffins?

Delicious and wholesome, Ripe Plantain Muffins are a perfect healthy snack fix!

• Simplicity makes these muffins incredibly easy to whip up no need for special tools.
• Flexibility in ingredient choices transforms this recipe to fit various diets, making it gluten-free and adaptable to taste.
• Nutritious ingredients like plantains and millet flour provide natural sweetness while keeping you energized.
• Quick and Easy you can have a batch ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy schedules!
• Crowd-Pleaser: These muffins charm everyone, from kids to adults, ensuring smiles at breakfast or snack time.
  Indulge in these delightful muffins and elevate your snacking game!

Ripe Plantain Muffins Ingredients

Dive into the delightful world of Ripe Plantain Muffins with these essential ingredients!

For the Muffin Batter

• All-Purpose Flour Provides structure; can substitute with all whole wheat flour for a heartier muffin.
• Finger Millet Flour (Ragi) Adds healthy fiber and nutrients; replace with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
• Whole Wheat Flour (Atta) Enhances nutrition and adds an earthy taste; substitute with more all-purpose flour or ragi.
• Sugar Sweetens the muffins; adjust to ½ cup for a sweeter flavor or use brown sugar for variation.
• Baking Powder Helps muffins rise; ensure it s fresh for best results.
• Baking Soda Aids in leavening; works with the acid in the plantains.
• Cardamom Powder Infuses warmth and spice; swap with cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
• Nigella Seeds Offers unique flavor; omit or replace with poppy seeds if necessary.
• Salt Enhances the flavors.
• Large Egg Binds ingredients together; can replace with flaxseed meal for a vegan option.
• Melted Ghee Adds richness and flavor; replace with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Ripe Plantain, mashed Key ingredient for natural sweetness and moisture; must be fully ripe with black spots for best sweetness.

Enjoy whipping up these delicious Ripe Plantain Muffins that promise to bring joy to your snack time!

How to Make Ripe Plantain Muffins

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Get your muffin tray ready by greasing it or lining it with paper liners to prevent sticking.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finger millet flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom powder, nigella seeds, and salt. This mixture should be combined well to ensure even flavor.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until fluffy, then add the mashed ripe plantain and melted ghee, mixing until smooth. This creates a delightful, sweet foundation for your muffins.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help maintain a light and fluffy texture in your muffins.

5. Fill Muffin Tray: Spoon the batter generously into the muffin holes fill them up to the rim for five larger muffins or ¾ full for six standard-sized muffins. Remember to add a bit of water to the empty muffin hole for even baking.

6. Bake: Place the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You ll know they re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool on a rack after removing from the tray.

7. Serve: Enjoy these delightful muffins warm with a cup of chai or coffee. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for 2-4 days if they last that long!

Optional: Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving for a lovely presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Ripe Plantain Muffins Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these muffins your own with these fun twists!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free treat.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a wonderful crunchy texture that complements the muffin s softness beautifully.
• Chocolate Indulgence: Stir in dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite who could resist more chocolate?
• Savory Spin: Omit sugar and incorporate cheese or add fresh herbs like rosemary for a savory twist that s equally delightful.
• Cinnamon Delight: Swap cardamom for cinnamon to create a warm, inviting flavor that fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma.
• Sweetened Naturally: Use maple syrup or honey in place of sugar for a more natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with plantains.
• Fruity Addition: Add blueberries or diced apples for a delicious fruity burst that makes every muffin feel fresh and wholesome.
• Spicy Boost: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising hint of heat that balances the sweetness of the plantains.

These variations ensure that every batch of Ripe Plantain Muffins can be uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Ripe Plantain Muffins are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness even on your busiest days! You can mash the ripe plantains and prepare the dry ingredients (flours, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, nigella seeds, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When it s time to bake, simply whisk the egg, combine the wet and dry ingredients, and bake as instructed. If you love having these gluten-free delights ready on hand, consider storing baked muffins in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to three months. Just pop them in the microwave for a quick snack that s just as delicious!

What to Serve with Ripe Plantain Muffins?

Enjoying freshly baked muffins brings warmth and comfort, so why not elevate the experience with delicious pairings?

• Chai Tea: A cup of fragrant chai perfectly complements the spices in the muffins, creating a heartwarming duo that enhances your morning routine.

• Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt adds a satisfying contrast to the muffins sweetness, making for a wholesome breakfast or snack option.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the muffins; think of vibrant mangoes, citrus, and berries!

• Peanut Butter Spread: Slather a little peanut butter on your muffin for a protein boost a nutty flavor that beautifully melds with the natural sweetness of the plantains.

• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy the comforting allure of a cozy hot chocolate that pairs divine with your warm muffins; the sweetness harmonizes in delightful satisfaction.

• Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the muffins flavor, bringing an added touch of sweetness and moisture that makes each bite irresistible.

• Savory Cheese: Pair with a mild cheese like ricotta or cream cheese for a savory twist that complements the sweetness it s an unexpected yet delightful combination!

By mixing and matching these options, you can create a delightful meal or snack around your Ripe Plantain Muffins that enriches every moment.

Expert Tips for Ripe Plantain Muffins

• Choose Ripe Plantains: Ensure your plantains have black spots for maximum sweetness and flavor; under-ripe ones will yield a less enjoyable muffin.

• Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of the light texture you desire.

• Adjust Flour Types: Experiment with different flours while knowing that it may slightly change the texture; using whole wheat flour offers hearty goodness.

• Experiment with Sweetness: Tailor the sugar level to your taste; consider reducing it for a less sweet muffin or swapping for brown sugar or honey.

• Add Unique Textures: Feel free to stir in nuts or chocolate chips for added crunch or richness, making your Ripe Plantain Muffins even more delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Ripe Plantain Muffins

Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-4 days to maintain moisture and flavor.

Fridge: For slightly longer shelf-life, keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week, though they may become denser.

Freezer: Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for storage up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat!

Reheating: Warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in an oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for 5-7 minutes to refresh their delicious texture. Enjoy your Ripe Plantain Muffins anytime!

Ripe Plantain Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe plantains for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best sweetness and flavor in your Ripe Plantain Muffins, look for plantains with a dark yellow to black skin, indicating they are fully ripe and ready for baking. The more black spots they have, the sweeter and more flavorful the muffins will be.

What s the best way to store Ripe Plantain Muffins?
Very good question! Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-4 days to keep them moist. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week. However, they may become a bit denser when chilled.

Can I freeze Ripe Plantain Muffins?
The more the merrier! To freeze, place the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they re frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy one, thaw at room temperature or microwave it for a quick treat.

Why are my muffins dense?
Good eye! Dense muffins can be a result of overmixing the batter. Be sure to gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. If using flours with different protein levels, this can also affect the texture. Stick to the guideline of the recipe for light and fluffy results!

Can I make these muffins vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegan version by replacing the large egg with a flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes until gel-like, and then add it to your wet ingredients. Enjoy a delicious gluten-free snack without the eggs!

Do these muffins contain any allergens?
That s an important consideration! The Ripe Plantain Muffins contain gluten if made with all-purpose or whole wheat flour. However, using millet or almond flour keeps the recipe gluten-free. Always check for allergies, especially concerning other ingredients like ghee, which can be replaced with coconut oil for those with dairy restrictions.