Name: Plantain Cheesy Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Caribbean-Inspired
Ingredients: 410g ripe plantain (peeled and mashed); 70g butter (softened); 11g yeast; 1 tsp salt; 45g caster sugar; 90g lukewarm milk; 415g plain flour; Mozzarella cheese (for filling); 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)

Sweet, fluffy, and utterly irresistible, Plantain Cheesy Bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe plantains with the creamy indulgence of mozzarella cheese. Soft, golden bread with a shiny egg-washed crust hides a gooey, cheesy center that melts in your mouth. This bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a cozy teatime treat, and it’s surprisingly simple to make.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe comes from a love for tropical flavors and the joy of homemade bread. I wanted a bread that was slightly sweet, soft, and packed with cheese, but also infused with the natural tropical goodness of plantains. The result is a bread that’s not just delicious, but also comforting, aromatic, and absolutely fun to make.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Plantains are a staple in many tropical cuisines, often used in both savory and sweet dishes. This bread is inspired by Latin American and Caribbean traditions where plantains are incorporated into baked goods. By combining them with yeast-leavened dough and mozzarella, we get a fusion of classic bread-making and tropical flavors that’s both modern and nostalgic.

Why You’ll Love Plantain Cheesy Bread

Every bite feels like a hug for your taste buds.

Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or as a side with meals.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, readily available ingredients.
Quick and Easy: One dough, simple steps, delightful results.
Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or different cheeses.
Crowd-Pleasing: Sweet and cheesy combo that everyone loves.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance for easier baking.
Great for Leftovers: Keeps soft and can be reheated without losing flavor.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use very ripe plantains: The sweeter, the better for flavor and texture.
Mash plantains smoothly: Ensures even texture in the bread.
Check yeast activity: Make sure your milk is lukewarm, not hot, to activate yeast properly.
Do not overfill with cheese: Too much can leak and make the bread soggy.
Egg wash: Brush evenly for a shiny, golden crust.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowl: To combine dough ingredients.
Masher or Fork: For smooth plantain mash.
Whisk: To beat eggs for egg wash.
Baking Tray: For oven baking.
Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy.

Ingredients in Plantain Cheesy Bread

Ripe Plantain: 410g, peeled. Provides natural sweetness and moisture.
Butter: 70g, softened. Adds richness and tenderness.
Yeast: 11g. Leavens the bread for fluffy texture.
Salt: 1 tsp. Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Caster Sugar: 45g. Sweetens the bread slightly.
Milk: 90g, lukewarm. Activates yeast and adds moisture.
Plain Flour: 415g. Forms the structure of the bread.
Mozzarella Cheese: For filling. Provides creamy, gooey interior.
Egg Wash: 1 beaten egg. For golden, shiny crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Plantain: Banana can be used, though less sweet and firm.
Butter: Margarine or dairy-free spread.
Milk: Almond or oat milk for dairy-free option.
Mozzarella: Cheddar or other melty cheese.
Plain Flour: All-purpose or bread flour.

Ingredient Spotlight

Plantains: Sweet, starchy fruit that gives the bread its unique tropical flavor and moist texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating soft pockets of gooey cheese in every bite.

Instructions for Making Plantain Cheesy Bread

Making this bread is as fun as it is delicious. Follow these steps:

Preheat Your Equipment:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients:
Mash the ripe plantains until smooth. Mix with softened butter, sugar, salt, milk, and yeast.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Gradually add flour to the wet mixture, kneading until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Assemble the Dish:
Divide dough into portions. Flatten each portion, place mozzarella in the center, and fold dough around to seal.
Cook to Perfection:
Place dough pieces on the baking tray, brush with beaten egg for shiny crust.
Finishing Touches:
Let dough rest for 10 minutes to rise slightly before baking.
Serve and Enjoy:
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm for gooey, cheesy bites.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Soft, slightly sweet bread with a moist interior complements the gooey, stretchy mozzarella. The golden crust adds a subtle crunch, while the plantain adds tropical sweetness and depth. Every bite is fluffy, rich, and indulgent.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Ensure plantains are ripe for optimal sweetness.
Knead dough until elastic for better texture.
Use minimal flour when shaping to avoid dense bread.
Egg wash ensures shiny, golden crust.

What to Avoid

Under-ripe plantains: Will make bread less sweet and dense.
Overfilling cheese: Can leak and create soggy spots.
Overbaking: Can dry out the soft interior.
Skipping rest: Dough needs brief rest before baking for best rise.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 220

Note: Approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepare dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. Store baked bread in an airtight container for 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to enjoy gooey cheese.

How to Serve Plantain Cheesy Bread

Serve warm as a snack, breakfast, or with a cup of coffee. Pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a simple salad for a light meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Slice and toast for cheesy breakfast sandwiches.
Cube and bake into a savory bread pudding.
Serve with dips like marinara or spicy mayo.

Additional Tips

Sprinkle a pinch of sugar on top before baking for extra caramelization.
Shape dough tightly around cheese to prevent leaks.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange on a platter, drizzle lightly with honey, or garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with mini skewers for bite-sized cheesy delights.

Variations to Try

Herb & Garlic: Mix herbs into the dough.
Sweet & Savory: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Cheese Blend: Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar.
Mini Rolls: Make small, snack-sized portions.
Stuffed Variations: Add ham, bacon, or vegetables for extra flavor.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use overripe plantains?

Yes, they’re even sweeter and mash more easily.

Q2: Can I make it vegan?

Use plant-based butter, milk, and vegan cheese.

Q3: Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, freeze before baking. Thaw and bake as usual.

Q4: How do I prevent cheese leakage?

Seal dough tightly around the cheese and avoid overfilling.

Q5: Can I use shredded plantains?

Mashed plantains are preferred for smooth texture.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?

In an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Q7: Can I add sugar on top?

Yes, for extra sweetness and glossy finish.

Q8: How do I get the bread soft?

Do not overbake and use ripe plantains.

Q9: Can I use different cheese?

Yes, any melty cheese like cheddar or gouda works.

Q10: Can I make smaller rolls?

Absolutely, divide dough into smaller portions for bite-sized bread.

Conclusion

Plantain Cheesy Bread is a tropical twist on a classic favorite. Sweet plantains, soft bread, and molten mozzarella combine to make a snack or breakfast that’s comforting, fun, and delicious. It’s perfect for sharing or enjoying straight from the oven, warm and gooey. This one’s a total crowd-pleaser that’s worth every bite.