Deliciously Easy Banana Pancake Recipe

Looking for a quick, healthy breakfast idea that’s perfect for the whole family? Banana pancakes are an excellent choice, combining the natural sweetness of bananas with a soft, fluffy texture. Not only are these pancakes delicious, but they’re also a great way to use up overripe bananas. Follow this easy recipe to whip up a tasty breakfast treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients
●    1 large ripe banana (overripe works best)
●    1 large egg
●    ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives)
●    1 cup all-purpose flour
●    1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
●    1 teaspoon baking powder
●    ¼ teaspoon baking soda
●    ¼ teaspoon salt
●    ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
●    1 tablespoon melted butter or oil (plus extra for the skillet)
Optional Toppings
●    Fresh banana slices
●    Maple syrup or honey
●    A sprinkle of cinnamon
●    Chocolate chips or nuts (for added texture)

Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Banana Base
1.    In a mixing bowl, peel and mash the ripe banana using a fork until it becomes smooth with minimal lumps. The banana acts as a natural sweetener and binder for the pancakes.
2.    Add in the egg and milk, whisking well to combine. If you want extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract at this stage.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
1.    In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar (if desired), baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2.    Stir the dry ingredients with a spoon to evenly distribute the baking powder and baking soda, which help make the pancakes light and fluffy.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
1.    Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the banana mixture.
2.    Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula, stirring just until there are no visible streaks of flour. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the pancakes dense and tough.

Step 4: Preheat the Pan
1.    Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
2.    Let the pan heat until the butter is fully melted and begins to bubble. This step ensures your pancakes won’t stick to the pan.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
1.    Scoop ¼ cup of the batter onto the pan for each pancake.
2.    Let each pancake cook for about 2–3 minutes, or until small bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set.
3.    Flip the pancake with a spatula and cook the other side for an additional 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
4.    Remove from the pan and place onto a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding a little more butter or oil to the pan if necessary.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
1.    Top your stack of pancakes with fresh banana slices, a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like.
2.    Serve warm, and enjoy a comforting, homemade breakfast.

Tips for the Perfect Banana Pancakes
1.    Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your pancakes will be. Overripe bananas mash more easily and add extra moisture and flavor to the batter.
2.    Don’t Over-Mix the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense pancakes. Gently fold the ingredients together just until combined.
3.    Add Extras for Texture: For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or berries into the batter before cooking. These add-ins create bursts of flavor and texture.
4.    Keep Pancakes Warm: If you’re cooking for a crowd, keep cooked pancakes warm by placing them on a baking sheet in an oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve.

Health Benefits of Banana Pancakes
Banana pancakes are not only tasty but also pack a few health benefits:
●    Natural Sweetness: Bananas add natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars.
●    Potassium Boost: Bananas are high in potassium, which is essential for muscle function and heart health.
●    Fiber: With fiber from both bananas and flour, these pancakes help support digestion and provide lasting energy.
●    Protein: The egg and milk in this recipe offer a decent amount of protein, making it a more balanced breakfast.

Variations
1.    Gluten-Free Banana Pancakes: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Oat flour also works well and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
2.    Vegan Banana Pancakes: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk like almond or soy.
3.    Protein-Packed Pancakes: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredients for an extra protein boost, ideal for post-workout breakfasts.

Final Thoughts
Banana pancakes are the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. Whether you're looking for a quick morning treat, a wholesome breakfast, or even a fun weekend brunch idea, this banana pancake recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Serve with your preferred toppings and enjoy the delicious, comforting taste of homemade pancakes with a healthy twist!