Start your day with a stack of warm, fluffy banana pancakes! These pancakes are packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla, making them a family favorite. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a quick weekday treat, banana pancakes are a comforting and satisfying way to fuel your day.
Banana pancakes are not just delicious—they’re also incredibly versatile. Pair them with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent breakfast experience. Plus, they’re a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
This recipe is quick to prepare, beginner-friendly, and uses simple pantry ingredients. With a perfect golden-brown finish, each bite is soft, flavorful, and sure to leave you craving more. Let’s dive into making the ultimate banana pancakes!
2. Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
3. Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Add the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; some lumps are fine.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
- Flip and cook the other side for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings like syrup, sliced bananas, or nuts.
4. How to Prepare
Preparing these banana pancakes is simple and stress-free. Start by mashing a ripe banana until creamy to ensure the batter is smooth and naturally sweet. Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately helps prevent overmixing, which keeps the pancakes light and fluffy. Use a ladle or measuring cup to pour uniform pancakes onto the skillet. Maintaining a medium heat is key to achieving a golden-brown exterior without burning.
5. Preparation Time
- Active preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe yields about 10 pancakes, serving 4 people.
7. FAQs
1. Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s one suitable for baking.
2. What’s the best way to keep pancakes warm?
Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to serve.
3. Can I add extras like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or blueberries for extra flavor.
4. What can I use instead of milk?
You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other dairy-free alternative.
5. Can I freeze leftover pancakes?
Yes, let the pancakes cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container or bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.
8. Conclusion
Banana pancakes are a delightful way to start the day, combining the sweet, fruity goodness of bananas with the fluffy texture of a classic pancake. This simple recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a leisurely brunch, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
With their natural sweetness and endless topping options, these pancakes are as versatile as they are delicious. Enjoy them with a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a topping of fresh fruit. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for those ripe bananas every time. Happy cooking!