Ripe Plantain Muffins: Discover the Delicious Nenthra Pazham Twist

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen it s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. These Ripe Plantain Muffins, or Nenthra Pazham Muffins as they are lovingly called in Kerala, are a delightful fusion of natural sweetness and warm spices like cardamom and nigella seeds. What makes them truly special is how effortlessly they come together, requiring just two bowls and minimal equipment.

With the perfect moisture from ripe, overripe plantains, these muffins are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a clever way to use up those bananas that are a little too far gone for your morning cereal. Whether you re seeking a quick breakfast on busy mornings or a cozy afternoon snack paired with your favorite tea, these gluten-free muffins are about to become your new go-to. Each bite offers a unique flavor experience while allowing you to indulge guilt-free, making them a welcome addition to any meal. Grab your ingredients and let s get started on baking these tasty delights!

Why Bake Ripe Plantain Muffins Today?

Irresistible flavor: The natural sweetness of ripe plantains melds beautifully with aromatic spices, creating a distinct and delightful taste that will leave you craving more.
Quick and easy: With just two bowls and minimal equipment needed, you ll whip up these muffins in no time, perfect for hectic mornings!
Health-conscious choice: Gluten-free and packed with nutrients, these muffins are a guilt-free indulgence that won t compromise on flavor.
Versatile variations: Feel free to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or alternative spices, ensuring there s a perfect muffin for everyone.
Crowd-pleaser: These muffins are sure to impress family and friends, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or simply enjoying at home!

Ripe Plantain Muffin Ingredients

Discover the tasty ingredients for your Ripe Plantain Muffins!

For the Muffin Batter

• All-Purpose Flour Provides structure and lightness; swap with whole wheat for a denser texture.
• Finger Millet Flour (Ragi) Adds nutritional benefits and unique flavor; replace with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Whole Wheat Flour (Atta) Offers added fiber; can use all-purpose flour as an alternative.
• Sugar Sweetens the muffins; adjust to personal preference try using up to ½ cup for a sweeter bite.
• Baking Powder A leavening agent essential for rising to fluffy perfection.
• Baking Soda Enhances the rising process along with baking powder.
• Cardamom Powder Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor; can be substituted with cinnamon if desired.
• Nigella Seeds Provides a nutty crunch; sprinkle extra on top for enhanced texture and flavor.
• Salt Elevates the overall taste of the muffins.
• Large Egg Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; consider using a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Melted Ghee Contributes richness and flavor; melted butter or coconut oil can serve as great substitutes.
• Ripe Plantain (Mashed) The key ingredient that brings moisture and sweetness; select plantains with yellow skin and black spots for maximum flavor.

For Extra Toppings (Optional)

• Additional Nigella Seeds Sprinkle on top before baking for extra flavor and crunch.
• Chopped Nuts or Chocolate Chips Add for a personal touch and added texture in every bite!

How to Make Ripe Plantain Muffins

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Prepare a 6-hole muffin tray by greasing and flouring it, or opt for muffin liners for easy removal.
2. Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl: all-purpose flour, finger millet flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom powder, nigella seeds, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine the wet ingredients in a separate bowl by whisking the egg, then mix in the mashed ripe plantain and melted ghee until smooth and creamy.
4. Fold gently the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula until just combined; be careful not to overmix for the best texture.
5. Spoon the batter into the muffin holes, filling the larger holes to the rim for 5 muffins or filling ¾ full for 6 muffins. Sprinkle nigella seeds on top for added crunch.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the muffins on a rack for a few minutes before serving.

Optional: Enjoy these muffins warm with a smear of butter or your favorite jam.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Ripe Plantain Muffins

Room Temperature: Store your Ripe Plantain Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-4 days to maintain freshness.

Refrigerator: If you d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the muffins for up to a week. Just ensure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you re ready to enjoy your muffins, simply remove them from the fridge or freezer and warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or bake at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 10 minutes to restore that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

Expert Tips for Ripe Plantain Muffins

• Perfect Plantains: Use overripe plantains with yellow and black-spotted skin for the best sweetness and flavor in your muffins.
• Watch the Mixing: To achieve a light and fluffy texture, be careful not to overmix the batter stir just until combined.
• Moisture Magic: Fill empty muffin holes with water in the tray during baking; this creates steam and promotes even cooking.
• Spice Swaps: While cardamom adds warmth, feel free to use cinnamon or nutmeg based on your flavor preferences for your Ripe Plantain Muffins.
• Storage Strategy: Keep your muffins in an airtight container; they ll stay fresh at room temperature for 2-4 days, perfect for quick snacks.

What to Serve with Ripe Plantain Muffins?

Imagine a cozy breakfast table adorned with flavors that harmonize beautifully while tantalizing your taste buds.

• Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of tangy yogurt enhances the sweetness of the muffins and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey takes the muffins to the next level, complementing the natural sugars in plantains.
• Fresh Fruits: Serve with sliced strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and freshness that balances the muffin s richness.
• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai harmonize with the muffins, creating a soothing pairing to brighten your morning.
• Nut Butter Spread: A smear of almond or peanut butter adds protein and a delightful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the muffins.
• Coconut Chia Pudding: This tropical treat s creamy texture and subtle sweetness make for a light yet indulgent accompaniment to your muffins.
• Hot Cocoa: Indulge in a cozy cup of hot cocoa as the sweetness of the muffins and chocolate meld beautifully, offering a sweet symphony for your palate.
• Greens Salad: For a lighter option, a simple salad with lemon dressing adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the muffin s dense sweetness.

Variations & Substitutions for Ripe Plantain Muffins

Feel free to explore and adjust these muffins to cater to your taste buds and dietary preferences!

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a gluten-free option.
• Dairy-Free: Replace melted ghee with coconut oil or vegan butter for a completely dairy-free muffin that s still rich and delicious.
• Spice Swap: If you re not a fan of cardamom, use cinnamon or nutmeg instead for a warming spice twist that adds a cozy flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to add texture and a delicious crunch to each muffin.
• Fruit Fun: Mix in a handful of dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, for a sweet chewy element that brightens up every bite.
• Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth perfect with a cup of coffee!
• Pumpkin Spice: Add 1 cup of pumpkin puree and a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist that brings comforting autumn flavors to the table.
• Chili Heat: For a surprising kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to awaken your taste buds and bring some heat.

Make Ahead Options

These Ripe Plantain Muffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dry ingredient mix (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices) and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it s ready when you are. Additionally, you can mash the ripe plantains and refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 24 hours to keep them fresh and prevent browning. When you re ready to bake, simply whisk the egg and melted ghee into the mashed plantains, combine with your prepped dry ingredients, and bake as directed for muffins just as delicious as if they were made fresh. Enjoy the ease of meal prep while indulging in delightful treats!

Ripe Plantain Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe plantains for the muffins?
Absolutely! Look for plantains that have yellow skin with dark spots or even a bit of black. This indicates they are overripe and packed with natural sweetness perfect for your Ripe Plantain Muffins!

How should I store leftover Ripe Plantain Muffins?
Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week, ensuring they re properly sealed to retain moisture.

Can I freeze Ripe Plantain Muffins?
Yes! To freeze your muffins, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or bake at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 10 minutes.

What can I do if my muffin batter seems too wet?
If you find your batter is too wet, this could be due to too much mashed plantain or the humidity in your kitchen. To fix this, sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch at a time, gently folding it in until you achieve the desired consistency. Remember, avoid overmixing for the fluffiest muffins!

Are Ripe Plantain Muffins safe for those with allergies?
Definitely! These muffins are vegetarian and can be made gluten-free by using only gluten-free flour variants. Just be cautious of any specific allergies, especially toward eggs or ghee. You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water) for a great vegan alternative.

How do I ensure my muffins rise well?
To ensure your Ripe Plantain Muffins rise perfectly, make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Check their effectiveness by adding a teaspoon to warm water if it bubbles up, they re good to go! Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in dense muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.