Plantain Pone Bites
CaribbeanSnack

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

These Plantain Pone Bites are a beloved Caribbean treat that transforms overripe plantains into irresistible golden squares of pure comfort. Rooted in island tradition, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of plantains with rich molasses, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla. The dense, moist texture develops as the ingredients bake together, creating caramelized edges and a soft center. Often enjoyed during gatherings or as an afternoon snack with tea, these bites represent the resourceful and flavorful cooking style of the Caribbean, where simple ingredients are elevated through time-honored techniques. Each bite delivers notes of caramel, spice, and tropical fruit that transport you straight to sun-drenched island kitchens.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or oil.

  2. Peel the very ripe plantains and grate them using a box grater into a large mixing bowl.

  3. Add the grated sweet potato to the bowl with the plantains and mix to combine.

  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

  5. Add the brown sugar, molasses, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk to the plantain mixture and stir well.

  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

  8. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

  9. Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then cut into 12 square portions.

  10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Plantain Pone Bites

3.8 (15)

Sweet Caribbean plantain pone bites with warming spices, perfect as a traditional snack. These dense, caramelized treats blend ripe plantains with molasses and aromatics for authentic island flavor.

easy
1h 5m
12 servings

Ingredients

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main

  • 4 pieces plantain, very ripe, peeled and grated
  • 1 pieces sweet-potatoes, peeled and grated

dry

  • 1 1/2 cups flour, all-purpose
  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

wet

  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1/2 cups milk, whole milk
  • 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract

spices

  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground
  • 1 teaspoons nutmeg, ground

Chef Tips

expert advice
For best results, use plantains that are completely black on the outside - they should be very soft and sweet.
You can substitute coconut milk for regular milk to add extra Caribbean flavor.
If you prefer a less dense texture, add an extra beaten egg to the batter.
These bites are even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a special presentation.
Plantain Pone Bites | Cuisinao