Banana Pancakes Recipe

These Banana Pancakes Recipe are a delightful way to start your day! Soft, fluffy, and packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, these pancakes are perfect for holidays or a cozy weekend brunch. With the added crunch of walnuts and a hint of cinnamon, you’ll find this recipe not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast or as a sweet treat, these banana pancakes will surely impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy warm pancakes in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with bananas and walnuts, these pancakes offer a healthy twist on your traditional breakfast.
• Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite toppings like maple syrup or fresh fruits for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for brunches, gatherings, or simply a special morning at home.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the sweet taste and soft texture of these pancakes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference!

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Non-stick skillet or griddle

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing wet ingredients smoothly and ensuring everything is well combined.
• Non-stick skillet or griddle: Ensures that pancakes cook evenly and don’t stick, making flipping easier.

Ingredients

These banana pancakes are soft and fluffy buttermilk pancakes packed with bananas, walnuts, and a pop of cinnamon. It’s a great idea for holidays or a weekend brunch.

For the Pancakes

• 2 medium ripe bananas
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/4 cups low fat buttermilk
• 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour (+2 tbsp of flour if using larger bananas)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

How to Make Banana Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

Break apart the bananas in a mixing bowl and mash them with a fork until smooth.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk in the eggs, oil, brown sugar, and buttermilk until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients into the bowl – flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. If you want some extra texture, mix in the chopped walnuts at this stage. Remember to adjust flour if using larger bananas.

Step 4: Let Batter Rest

Let the batter sit on the counter for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps activate the baking powder and baking soda for fluffier pancakes.

Step 5: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium to medium-low heat. A little oil may be needed to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Cook Pancakes

Pour a dollop of pancake batter onto the hot pan. Cook until bubbles appear on top; this indicates it’s time to flip them over.

Enjoy your homemade banana pancakes with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Banana Pancakes Recipe

Serving banana pancakes can elevate your breakfast experience. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch, here’s how to make the most of your delicious pancakes.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Top your banana pancakes with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a colorful and nutritious boost.
• Sliced Bananas: Enhance the banana flavor by adding extra slices on top before serving.
• Kiwi or Mango: For a tropical twist, add sliced kiwi or mango, bringing a refreshing taste to the dish.

With Syrups and Sauces

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup over your pancakes for that classic sweet touch.
• Honey: A lighter alternative, honey adds natural sweetness and pairs well with nuts.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added richness and protein.

With Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Whip up some cream to dollop over your stacks; it adds an indulgent layer of flavor.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream which complements the bananas beautifully.

Garnished with Nuts

• Chopped Walnuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for crunch and extra nutrition.
• Pecans: Sautéed pecans can add warmth and depth to your banana pancakes.

How to Perfect Banana Pancakes Recipe

Perfecting your banana pancakes is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve fluffy and delightful results every time.

• Boldly Mash Bananas: Ensure bananas are fully mashed for an even distribution of flavor throughout the batter.
• Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale if possible to get perfect proportions.
• Boldly Let Batter Rest: Allow the batter to sit for about 15 minutes before cooking; this helps activate the leavening agents for fluffier pancakes.
• Boldly Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding batter; this ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
• Boldly Flip at the Right Time: Wait until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake before flipping; this indicates they’re ready for their second side.
• Boldly Keep Warm in Oven: If making multiple batches, keep cooked pancakes warm in an oven set at low heat (around 200°F) until serving.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Pancakes Recipe

To complement your banana pancakes, consider these delightful side dishes. They can add variety and balance to your breakfast spread.

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that provides protein and pairs well with fruits.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and nutrition.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer hearty protein and balance out sweetness.
4. Turkey Sausage Links: These provide savory flavors that contrast nicely with sweet pancakes.
5. Cottage Cheese: A protein-packed side that adds creaminess without overpowering flavors.
6. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread offers healthy fats and pairs well with sweet dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana pancakes can be simple, but it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can result in dense or flat pancakes. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.
• Bold over-mixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough pancakes. Stir until just combined for light and fluffy results.
• Bold skipping the resting time: Neglecting to let the batter sit can affect texture. Allowing it to rest for about 15 minutes helps create air bubbles, leading to fluffier pancakes.
• Bold cooking on high heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Use medium heat and watch pancakes closely.
• Bold using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas won’t provide enough sweetness and flavor. Choose medium ripe bananas for the best taste and texture.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store banana pancakes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Banana Pancakes Recipe

• Freeze banana pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label bags with the date for future reference.

Reheating Banana Pancakes Recipe

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place pancakes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Place pancakes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook pancakes for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my banana pancakes fluffier?

You can make your banana pancakes fluffier by allowing the batter to rest for about 15 minutes before cooking, which activates the leavening agents properly.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in this Banana Pancakes Recipe?

Yes, using whole wheat flour is possible, but it may yield denser pancakes. Consider mixing it with all-purpose flour for lighter results.

What toppings pair well with Banana Pancakes Recipe?

Popular toppings include fresh fruit, maple syrup, nut butter, or whipped cream. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!

Can I make banana pancake batter ahead of time?

While it’s best to cook immediately, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to one day before cooking. Mix gently again before use.

Conclusion

These banana pancakes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding chocolate chips or swapping walnuts with pecans. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful breakfast that everyone will love!