Ghanaian-Inspired Sweet Plantain Brioche

Ingredients

In this Ghanaian-inspired adaptation, the traditional French brioche is enhanced with the addition of ripe plantains, a staple ingredient in Ghanaian cuisine. The plantains bring a unique sweetness and caramelized flavor to the brioche, creating a delightful fusion of Ghanaian and French flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Brioche Vendéenne, so you can check it out.

• 2 ripe plantains, mashed 2 ripe plantains, mashed
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 47g (18g sugars)
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed plantains, flour, sugar, salt, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. 3.
   Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into a round loaf or desired shape.
7. 7.
   Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
8. 8.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
9. 9.
   Bake the brioche for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Ensure that the plantains are ripe, with a yellow skin and slightly soft to the touch. This will ensure a natural sweetness and easier mashing.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle some granulated sugar on top of the brioche before baking.
• Serve the brioche warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• If you prefer a more pronounced plantain flavor, you can add an additional mashed plantain to the dough.

Serving advice

Enjoy the Ghanaian-inspired Sweet Plantain Brioche as a delightful breakfast or brunch treat. Serve it warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a truly satisfying experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the baked brioche with powdered sugar before serving. You can also garnish it with thin slices of caramelized plantains for an elegant touch.