Plátanos en Gloria
A sweet and decadent dessert made from ripe plantains simmered in a rich, spiced syrup with cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes a touch of rum. It's a beloved treat often served warm.

🧂 Ingredients
- 4 large Ripe plantains(peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rounds)
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 2 medium Cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Rum (optional)
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch (optional)(mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel the ripe plantains and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
💡 Tip: Ensure plantains are very ripe (blackened skin) for maximum sweetness and soft texture. - 2
In a large skillet or pot, combine water, brown sugar, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
💡 Tip: Use a wide pan to ensure even cooking of the plantains. - 3
Carefully add the sliced plantains to the simmering syrup. Ensure they are mostly submerged.
💡 Tip: Arrange plantains in a single layer if possible. - 4
Simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, turning the plantains occasionally, until they are tender and have absorbed some of the syrup. The syrup should start to thicken.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking. - 5
Stir in the vanilla extract and butter. If using rum, add it now and let it simmer for another minute.
- 6
If a thicker syrup is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.
💡 Tip: Add cornstarch slurry gradually to achieve desired consistency. - 7
Remove cinnamon sticks before serving. Serve warm, spooning the syrup over the plantains.
💡 Tip: Plátanos en Gloria are delicious on their own or served with a dollop of fresh cream or vanilla ice cream.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The riper the plantains, the sweeter and softer the final dish will be.
- ✓Adjust the amount of brown sugar and cinnamon to your preference.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a splash of dark rum can be added towards the end of cooking.
- ✓This dish is best served warm, shortly after preparation.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a few cloves to the syrup for a more complex spice profile.
- Incorporate a few strips of orange zest while simmering for a citrusy note.
- Serve with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture.