These Banana Oatmeal Pancakes are a healthy and delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they are rich in nutrients from ripe bananas and oats, offering a naturally sweet flavor. With the addition of cocoa powder, these pancakes have a deliciously rich and indulgent taste, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or snack. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed start to your day or a treat that both kids and adults will love, these pancakes are the perfect solution.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings (about 6 pancakes)
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup oatmeal (quick oats or rolled oats)
- 25g (2 tablespoons) cocoa powder
- 5g (1 teaspoon) baking powder (optional)
- Banana slices or nuts for decoration (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Mash the Bananas: Start by mashing the ripe bananas in a large bowl until they form a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Whisk the Eggs: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and whisk until fully combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the mashed bananas, eggs, oatmeal, cocoa powder, and baking powder (if using) into the same bowl. Stir until everything is well incorporated into a smooth batter.
Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
4. Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. If necessary, lightly grease it with a small amount of oil or butter.
5. Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the batter into a round shape. Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Flip carefully when small bubbles form on the surface.
6. Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining pancakes, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
7. Serve the Pancakes: Stack the pancakes on a plate. Optionally, decorate with banana slices or nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
8. Enjoy: Serve warm, and enjoy these healthy and indulgent pancakes with your favorite syrup or a dollop of yogurt!
Serving Suggestions
- For Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with maple syrup, honey, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
- Toppings: Add fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
- Side Pairing: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for extra protein and creaminess.
- Perfect for Pre-Workout: These pancakes are great to fuel you before a workout as they provide a healthy balance of carbs and protein.
Cooking Tips
- Consistency: If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk (dairy or plant-based) to thin it out. If it’s too runny, add a bit more oatmeal.
- Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe!
- Non-Stick Pan: Ensure you’re using a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned griddle to prevent sticking and to get that golden brown finish.
- Texture: You can blend the oatmeal in a food processor to make a smoother batter, or leave it as is for a bit of texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Bananas: High in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, bananas help support heart health and digestive function.
- Oatmeal: Oats are rich in soluble fiber, which helps to lower cholesterol and improve digestion. They’re also a good source of iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
- Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein, eggs provide essential amino acids and are a great source of vitamins D and B12, which support bone health and energy production.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides antioxidants and adds a rich, indulgent flavor to the pancakes without extra sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like oats, bananas, and eggs, this recipe is not only delicious but also good for you.
- Quick and Easy: These pancakes come together quickly, making them an excellent choice for a weekday breakfast or lazy weekend brunch.
- Customizable: You can make this recipe your own by adding extra ingredients like chocolate chips, peanut butter, or even a scoop of protein powder for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweetness from the bananas and the rich taste from the cocoa powder makes these pancakes irresistible to kids. They won’t even realize they’re eating something healthy!
Health Benefits of Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
- Balanced Breakfast: These pancakes provide a great balance of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, helping you stay full and energized throughout the morning.
- Gut Health: The fiber in the oats and bananas aids in digestion, promoting a healthy gut and preventing constipation.
- Boosts Immunity: With vitamin C from the bananas and antioxidants from the cocoa powder, these pancakes help support a strong immune system.
- Heart Health: The high potassium content from bananas, combined with the fiber from the oats, supports healthy blood pressure and heart function.
Conclusion
These Banana Oatmeal Pancakes are a fantastic way to start your day on a nutritious and delicious note. With their natural sweetness, hearty oats, and the indulgent flavor of cocoa, they are sure to become a breakfast favorite for your whole family. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert, these pancakes offer a nourishing way to fuel your body. Enjoy them topped with fresh fruits, a drizzle of syrup, or a dollop of yogurt for a complete and satisfying meal!
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can make the pancakes and freeze them. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or toaster oven.
2. Can I make these pancakes dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the milk or cream with a plant-based alternative such as almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Also, use a dairy-free version of cheese if desired.
3. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! You can fold in some dark chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
4. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats provide a bit more chewiness and texture.
5. How can I make these pancakes fluffier?
If you want fluffier pancakes, you can separate the eggs, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, and fold them into the batter before cooking. This will make the pancakes extra light and airy.