Few desserts capture the comforting flavors of Latin American home cooking quite like Sweet Plantain Empanadas. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with naturally sweet ripe plantains and often enhanced with cinnamon, vanilla, brown sugar, or creamy cheese for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Sweet Plantain Empanadas are perfect for breakfast, dessert, afternoon snacks, holiday celebrations, or special family gatherings. They combine the rich sweetness of caramelized plantains with the irresistible texture of freshly baked or fried empanada dough.

Whether you're exploring traditional Mexican-inspired desserts or searching for a unique sweet pastry recipe, these Sweet Plantain Empanadas deliver authentic flavor and unforgettable texture in every bite.

What Are Sweet Plantain Empanadas?

Sweet Plantain Empanadas are pastry turnovers filled with mashed ripe plantains and sweet seasonings. Popular throughout various regions of Latin America, they can be baked or fried and are often served dusted with powdered sugar or accompanied by coffee, hot chocolate, or ice cream.

The filling is naturally sweet thanks to ripe plantains, which develop deep caramel-like flavors as they mature. Combined with a buttery pastry shell, they create a dessert that's both rustic and elegant.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich natural sweetness
  • Perfect balance of crispy and creamy textures
  • Easy to customize
  • Great for holidays and celebrations
  • Can be baked or fried
  • Family-friendly dessert
  • Authentic Latin-inspired flavors
  • Freezer-friendly

Ingredients

For the Plantain Filling

  • 3 very ripe plantains
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Filling Additions

  • ½ cup cream cheese
  • ¼ cup raisins
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut
  • 2 tablespoons dulce de leche

For the Empanada Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup cold water

Egg Wash

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Garnishes

  • Powdered sugar
  • Cinnamon sugar
  • Honey drizzle
  • Caramel sauce

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Yield

Makes 12 empanadas

How to Make Sweet Plantain Empanadas

Step 1: Prepare the Plantains

Peel the ripe plantains and slice them into rounds.

The riper the plantains, the sweeter and more flavorful the filling will be.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Add:

  • Plantains
  • Brown sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Salt

Cook for 8–10 minutes until soft and caramelized.

Stir in vanilla extract.

Mash the mixture until smooth.

Allow it to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a large bowl combine:

  • Flour
  • Salt

Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add:

  • Egg
  • Cold water

Mix until a dough forms.

Shape into a disk, wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.

Cut into 5-inch circles using a round cutter or bowl.

Step 5: Fill the Empanadas

Place 1–2 tablespoons of plantain filling in the center of each dough circle.

Avoid overfilling.

Step 6: Seal the Empanadas

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.

Press edges firmly with a fork to seal.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

Whisk together:

  • Egg
  • Milk

Brush over each empanada.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

Optional Frying Method

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

Fry empanadas for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Drain on paper towels.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Dust with:

  • Powdered sugar
  • Cinnamon sugar

Serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Plantain Empanadas

Use Very Ripe Plantains

Plantains with dark or nearly black skins provide the sweetest flavor.

Cool the Filling

Warm filling can soften the dough and make assembly difficult.

Seal Thoroughly

Press edges firmly to prevent leaks during baking or frying.

Don't Overfill

Too much filling can cause empanadas to burst.

Delicious Filling Variations

Plantain and Cream Cheese

Add a spoonful of cream cheese for a creamy contrast.

Plantain and Dulce de Leche

A rich caramel filling that takes the dessert to another level.

Plantain Coconut Empanadas

Mix shredded coconut into the filling.

Plantain Raisin Empanadas

Add raisins for extra sweetness and texture.

Plantain Nut Empanadas

Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts.

What to Serve with Sweet Plantain Empanadas

These pastries pair wonderfully with:

  • Mexican hot chocolate
  • Coffee
  • Café de olla
  • Espresso
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Cinnamon ice cream
  • Caramel sauce
  • Fresh fruit

Make-Ahead Instructions

Prepare the empanadas and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours.

Bake when ready to serve.

Freezing Instructions

Freeze Unbaked

Arrange on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

Transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months.

Bake from Frozen

Add 5–7 extra minutes to the baking time.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat

Warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bananas instead of plantains?

Yes, but plantains provide a richer, more traditional flavor and texture.

Should I bake or fry them?

Both methods are delicious. Baking is lighter, while frying creates a crispier shell.

How ripe should the plantains be?

Very ripe, with dark brown or black skins, for maximum sweetness.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes. They are excellent for preparing in advance and freezing.

What dough works best?

A traditional buttery empanada dough provides the best flavor and texture.

Why Sweet Plantain Empanadas Are So Popular

These pastries combine:

  • Sweet caramelized plantains
  • Flaky pastry
  • Warm spices
  • Endless filling options

into a dessert that feels both comforting and festive.

The balance of natural sweetness and buttery dough makes them irresistible.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Plantain Empanadas are a delicious celebration of Latin-inspired flavors. Filled with caramelized ripe plantains and wrapped in a golden pastry shell, they offer a wonderful combination of sweetness, texture, and tradition.

Whether served as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat, these empanadas are guaranteed to impress family and friends. Pair them with coffee or hot chocolate, and enjoy a pastry that brings warmth and comfort to every bite.