Banana Pancakes
Banana Pancakes cook into fluffy breakfast cakes with tender centers and lightly golden edges.
About This Recipe
Banana Pancakes should be fluffy inside and lightly golden outside.
Rest the batter briefly and cook over steady heat so the centers finish without burning.
Ingredients
- ✓1 cup all-purpose flour
- ✓1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
- ✓½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ✓¼ teaspoon salt
- ✓¾ cup mashed overripe banana (about 1 ½ large)
- ✓1 large egg
- ✓¾ cup milk
- ✓Cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
- ✓Banana (sliced, for serving)
- ✓Maple syrup (for serving)
Ingredient Notes
- Batter: A few small lumps are fine and help keep pancakes tender.
- Leavening: Fresh baking powder gives pancakes lift.
- Pan heat: Medium heat cooks the center before the outside gets too dark.
- Butter or oil: A light coating helps browning without greasiness.
Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another, larger bowl, beat the banana and egg together until blended. Whisk in the milk until combined, then whisk in the dry ingredients. The batter will be slightly lumpy.
- 2
Heat a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- 3
Using a ⅓-cup measuring cup, pour 3-4 circles of batter into the pan. Cook until the pancakes are puffed on top and golden brown on the bottom, 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook on the other side until risen and cooked through, 1-2 minutes more. Makes 8 pancakes.
- 4
Serve with banana slices and maple syrup.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Preheat the pan or griddle first.
- Mix batters only until combined.
- Cook in batches without crowding.
- Keep finished portions warm while the rest cook.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb finish: Add fresh herbs before serving.
- Spicy version: Add chili or hot sauce.
- Lighter option: Serve with salad or vegetables.
- Make ahead: Prepare components early and finish fresh.
What to Serve With Banana Pancakes
Serve Banana Pancakes with fruit, yogurt, eggs, bacon, sausage, coffee, or maple syrup.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for best quality.
Reheat gently, adding a small splash of liquid if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Pan too hot: The outside browns before the center cooks.
- Overmixing batter: A few lumps are better than tough batter.
- Flipping too often: Let the first side set before turning.
- Serving too late: Breakfast dishes are usually best warm.
FAQ
Can I make Banana Pancakes ahead?
Some parts can be measured ahead, but cook close to serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Many pancakes, muffins, and casseroles freeze well after cooling.
Why did it turn tough?
Overmixing or using too much heat can make the texture tough.
How do I reheat it?
Warm gently in the oven, toaster, skillet, or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 199 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 52 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Sugar: 7 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.4 g
- Trans Fat: 0.01 g