Banana Pancakes have been my go-to for a quick and satisfying breakfast for years. I distinctly remember my mom making them on lazy weekend mornings, the sweet scent of ripe bananas filling our kitchen. She always made these so effortlessly, turning simple ingredients into a stack of golden perfection. These aren’t just any pancakes; they’re truly easy banana pancakes that taste like a special treat but are perfect for any day of the week. The fluffy texture and sweet, comforting flavor make them an instant favorite. Ready to whip up a batch of deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Pancake Recipe
You’re going to absolutely adore making these pancakes. They’re incredibly simple and deliver fantastic results every single time. Here’s why they’ll become your new favorite breakfast staple:
- Incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.
- The natural sweetness of banana means less added sugar.
- They create wonderfully fluffy banana pancakes that are light and airy.
- Perfect for a busy morning needing a quick fix.
- These homemade banana pancakes taste far better than any mix.
- The aroma of warm bananas and pancake batter is pure comfort.
- A fantastic way to use up overripe bananas.
- They’re a crowd-pleaser for the whole family!
Ingredients for Homemade Banana Pancakes
Gathering your banana pancake ingredients is the first step to a delicious breakfast. You’ll need just a few simple items from your pantry to create these delightful treats. Using a very ripe banana is key for maximum sweetness and that signature flavor. I’ve found that the 1 ripe banana, mashed provides moisture and natural sweetness, reducing the need for extra sugar. For that classic pancake texture, we use 1 cup all-purpose flour, which gives us a great base. The 2 tablespoons sugar adds just a touch more sweetness, while 2 teaspoons baking powder is crucial for achieving those wonderfully fluffy banana pancakes. A pinch of 1/2 teaspoon salt balances the flavors. You’ll also need 1 egg for binding and richness, 1 cup milk for moisture, and 2 tablespoons butter, melted for that lovely golden-brown finish and a hint of richness. These are the essential components for perfect homemade banana pancakes!
How to Make Easy Banana Pancakes
Whipping up a batch of these easy banana pancakes is a breeze, and the results are always worth it. This simple banana pancake recipe is perfect for any morning when you crave something warm and comforting. Let’s get started on this delightful banana pancake batter recipe!
- Step 1: Start by mashing your 1 ripe banana, mashed in a large bowl until it’s smooth. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your pancakes will be, so don’t shy away from those speckled ones!
- Step 2: Add the dry ingredients to the bowl with the mashed banana: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly.
- Step 3: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 1 egg, 1 cup milk, and 2 tablespoons butter, melted. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot so it doesn’t cook the egg.
- Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mashed banana. Stir gently until everything is *just* combined. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine; overmixing can lead to tough pancakes, and we want them light and fluffy!
- Step 5: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or non-stick frying pan over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates quickly.
- Step 6: Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. You can fit a few on at a time, just make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Step 7: Cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look set. Then, carefully flip your banana pancake and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 8: Serve your delicious, homemade banana pancakes warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup or your favorite toppings. Enjoy this simple banana pancake recipe!
Pro Tips for the Best Fluffy Banana Pancakes
Want to elevate your pancake game? These simple tricks will ensure your banana pancakes are always light, fluffy, and incredibly delicious. I’ve found these tips make all the difference in achieving that perfect breakfast experience.
- Use very ripe bananas – the spottier, the better! They’re sweeter and mash more easily, contributing to a better texture and flavor in your banana pancake recipe.
- Don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are actually good! Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tougher, less fluffy pancakes. Stir until just combined.
- Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the baking powder to activate and the flour to hydrate, resulting in lighter, fluffier pancakes.
- Control your heat. Medium heat is ideal. Too high, and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low, and they won’t get that beautiful golden color.
What’s the secret to perfect fluffy banana pancakes?
The biggest secret to achieving perfectly fluffy banana pancakes is not to overmix the batter and to let it rest for a few minutes before cooking. This allows the leavening agents to work their magic, creating air pockets for that light, airy texture. These steps are crucial for the best banana pancakes.
Can I make banana pancakes ahead of time?
You can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately for your banana pancake recipe ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, combine the wet and dry, add the mashed banana, and proceed with the recipe. This makes for a super speedy morning!
How do I avoid common mistakes with banana pancakes?
A common mistake is using underripe bananas; opt for very ripe ones for sweetness and moisture. Another pitfall is overmixing the batter, which makes pancakes dense. Ensure your griddle is heated to the right temperature (medium heat) to avoid burning the outside before the inside is cooked.
Best Ways to Serve Banana Pancakes
Once your stack of golden-brown delights is ready, the fun really begins! Serving these banana pancakes is all about adding your favorite toppings. A classic choice is a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup, which complements the banana flavor beautifully. For a richer experience, try a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a healthy twist. These are also fantastic for banana pancakes for kids; they love them with a sprinkle of chocolate chips or fresh berries mixed into the batter or scattered on top. A side of crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad makes for a complete and satisfying breakfast.
Nutrition Facts for Banana Pancakes
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a single serving of these delightful banana pancakes. These figures are based on the standard recipe, providing a good idea of what you’re consuming with this quick banana pancake breakfast.
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Banana Pancakes
Leftover banana pancakes are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick banana pancake breakfast later on. Firstly, make sure your delicious pancakes are completely cooled on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents any condensation from making them soggy. For refrigeration, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap individual pancakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the toaster oven or a regular oven at around 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm and slightly crisp. You can also microwave them for a super speedy reheat, though they might lose some of their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pancakes
What are banana pancakes?
Banana pancakes are a delightful breakfast staple made by incorporating mashed ripe bananas into a traditional pancake batter. This simple addition not only adds a natural sweetness and moist texture but also a wonderful banana flavor. They’re a step up from plain pancakes, offering a more wholesome and flavorful start to your day. Many people love them because they’re a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas.
Are banana pancakes healthy?
Generally, banana pancakes can be considered a healthier option compared to many other breakfast choices, especially when made with whole wheat flour or oats, and with less added sugar. The bananas themselves provide potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness. However, the overall healthiness depends on the other ingredients used and the toppings you add. Our simple banana pancake recipe focuses on wholesome ingredients to make them a good choice for a nutritious breakfast.
Can I make vegan banana pancakes?
Absolutely! To make vegan banana pancakes, you’ll need to make a few simple substitutions. Instead of milk, use a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer. The rest of the ingredients in our banana pancake recipe remain the same, and you’ll still get wonderfully fluffy results!
What are the best toppings for banana pancakes?
The beauty of banana pancakes is their versatility with toppings! Classic choices include maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar for sweetness. For a richer treat, consider whipped cream, yogurt, or a dollop of peanut butter or almond butter. Fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, add great texture and flavor. They’re especially popular for banana pancakes for kids with chocolate chips or a dusting of powdered sugar!
Variations of Banana Pancakes You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic banana pancake recipe, it’s fun to experiment with different twists! These variations offer new flavors and cater to various dietary needs, making sure there’s a perfect pancake for everyone.
- Banana Protein Pancakes: Boost the protein content by adding a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the dry ingredients. This makes for a more filling and muscle-friendly breakfast, perfect after a workout.
- Vegan Banana Pancakes: Easily make these pancakes vegan by swapping the milk for plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). This ensures you get that wonderful texture without any animal products.
- Banana Pancakes with Oats: For added fiber and a slightly different texture, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with rolled oats. You can pulse them in a food processor first for a finer texture, or leave them whole for a chewier bite.
- Gluten-Free Banana Pancakes: Create delicious gluten-free banana pancakes by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This ensures your pancakes still hold together beautifully and have a great texture.
Banana Pancakes: 1 Simple Trick for Fluffy Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 pancakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious and easy homemade banana pancakes. This simple banana pancake recipe yields fluffy banana pancakes perfect for a quick breakfast. Discover the best banana pancakes that are healthy and tasty.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe banana.
- Add flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each banana pancake.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve your fluffy banana pancakes warm.
Notes
- Ensure your banana is very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- For healthier banana pancakes, you can use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar.
- Add chocolate chips or berries to your banana pancake batter for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Griddling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Banana Pancakes, banana pancake recipe, easy banana pancakes, fluffy banana pancakes, homemade banana pancakes, simple banana pancake recipe
