Healthy Banana Pancakes Delight

This simple banana oat pancake recipe transforms overripe bananas into a delicious breakfast that feels indulgent while being surprisingly nutritious. Made with just three core ingredients, these pancakes offer the perfect balance of natural sweetness and hearty texture that will keep you satisfied all morning.

I discovered this recipe during a pantry clean out day when I had spotty bananas threatening to go bad. What started as a kitchen experiment has become our Sunday morning tradition, with my kids requesting these pancakes weekly.

Ingredients

• Ripe bananas: The riper the better for natural sweetness and easy blending
• Eggs: Provide structure and protein to make these pancakes more filling
• Oats: Old fashioned rolled oats work best for texture although quick oats will work in a pinch
• Optional mix ins: Add vanilla extract for depth, cinnamon for warmth, or fold in berries, nuts, or chocolate chips for variety

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the skillet:

Preheat your skillet over low to medium low heat. The key is starting with a properly heated pan. Too hot and the pancakes will burn before cooking through, too cool and they'll become soggy.

Blend the batter:

Place the peeled ripe bananas, eggs, and oats in a blender. Pulse on low speed until just combined and smooth. Avoid overblending which can make the pancakes tough. The consistency should be slightly thicker than traditional pancake batter but still pourable.

Prepare the cooking surface:

Lightly grease your preheated skillet with cooking spray, a small amount of neutral oil, or a pat of butter. Use just enough to prevent sticking without making the pancakes greasy.

Pour the batter:

Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to portion approximately 1/6 of the batter per pancake onto the hot skillet. Keep pancakes on the smaller side about 3 4 inches in diameter for easier flipping.

Cook first side:

Allow pancakes to cook undisturbed for 2 3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear set. This is the ideal time to add any mix ins by gently pressing them into the top of the cooking pancake.

Flip and finish cooking:

Using a thin spatula, carefully flip each pancake and cook for an additional 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. The second side typically cooks faster than the first.

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The bananas are truly the star ingredient here. While I've tried many variations over the years, I keep coming back to the simplicity of using perfectly spotty bananas with brown speckles covering most of the peel. These bananas create that ideal natural sweetness that eliminates the need for any added sugar.

Storage Tips

These pancakes refrigerate beautifully for quick weekday breakfasts. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They'll keep fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster for a quick warming that restores their texture better than microwave reheating.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your pancakes are difficult to flip, they likely need more time on the first side. Wait until the edges appear dry and bubbles form on the surface. Another common issue is pancakes that are too thick or too thin. If too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to thin the batter. If too runny, add an extra tablespoon of oats and let the batter rest for 5 minutes to thicken.

Serving Suggestions

While traditional maple syrup is always delicious, these pancakes pair wonderfully with creative toppings that complement their banana flavor. Try a spread of almond or peanut butter for extra protein, a dollop of Greek yogurt with honey, or fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar. For a special treat, top with a few dark chocolate chips while the pancakes are still warm so they melt slightly.

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The next time you're wondering what to do with overripe bananas, give these pancakes a try. They're guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use rolled oats instead of blended oats?

Yes, rolled oats can be used instead of blending them, but the texture of the pancakes will be chunkier. For a smoother batter, blending the oats is recommended.

→ What are some alternative mix-ins for the batter?

You can add vanilla extract, cinnamon, berries, nuts, or chocolate chips to enhance the flavor of the pancakes. Customize as per your preference!

→ Can these pancakes be made dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes, these pancakes are naturally dairy-free and gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. They’re perfect for a variety of dietary needs.

→ How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking to the skillet?

Make sure to preheat and grease the skillet well before pouring the batter. Use nonstick cooking spray, oil, or butter for best results.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Let the pancakes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster for a quick meal.