There’s something undeniably comforting about pancakes, especially when they are infused with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Pancakes can often be seen as a guilty pleasure, but with this Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipe, you can indulge without the worry! Made with wholesome ingredients, these pancakes are fluffy, delicious, and packed with nutrients, making them perfect for breakfast any day of the week.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly cooked pancakes wafting through your kitchen, the golden-brown discs stacked high, ready to be topped with your favorite fruits, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of yogurt. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about nourishing your body while enjoying a beloved breakfast classic. With a delightful blend of whole wheat flour, oats, and chia seeds, these pancakes are a wholesome way to start your day.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it incorporates whole grains and oats, providing fiber that will keep you feeling full longer. The addition of chia seeds adds a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants. Plus, the natural sweetness of bananas means you can use less sugar overall, allowing the flavors to shine through without being overly sweet. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some nutrition while enjoying a classic breakfast favorite!

What You’ll Need

1 cup whole wheat flour
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup rolled oats
2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon fine grain salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 medium bananas)
2 eggs
1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled

Setup & Equipment

Large mixing bowl – for combining dry ingredients.
Medium mixing bowl – for the wet ingredients.
Whisk – for mixing until smooth.
Non-stick skillet or griddle – for cooking the pancakes.
Spatula – for flipping the pancakes.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurement of ingredients.

Cook Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipe Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, chia seeds, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed, which is key for perfectly fluffy pancakes.

Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Add the eggs, plain whole milk yogurt, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture together until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your pancakes light and fluffy.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of melted butter to coat the surface lightly.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

For each pancake, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve the pancakes warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt. Enjoy your healthy treat!

Healthier Substitutions

For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk.
Substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar for a natural sweetener.
Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan alternative.
Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free fat option.

Learn from These Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense pancakes. Mix until just combined!
Cooking on too high heat can burn the pancakes on the outside while leaving the inside raw. Keep the heat at medium.
Not letting the skillet heat properly can result in pancakes that stick. Ensure it’s hot and lightly greased.
Using unripe bananas will lead to less sweet pancakes. Always opt for ripe bananas for the best flavor.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To cool, place the pancakes on a wire rack to prevent steaming. Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To rewarm, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave until heated through.

Quick Q&A

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and nutritional content.

How can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

To make gluten-free pancakes, substitute the whole wheat and all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or even berries for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add extra ingredients.

How can I make these pancakes sweeter without adding sugar?

You can increase the amount of mashed banana or add unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness without added sugar.

One Pan, More Ideas

That’s a Wrap

Now that you have this Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipe in your arsenal, breakfast will never be the same! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these delightful pancakes in no time. They’re perfect for lazy weekend mornings or busy weekday breakfasts. Remember, the key to perfect pancakes lies in the balance of your ingredients and the love you put into cooking them!

So gather your ingredients, turn on your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a breakfast that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Happy cooking!