Craving a delicious and wholesome start to your day? These Fluffy Banana Oat Pancakes are a perfect addition to your Healthy Brunch Recipes repertoire, offering a sweet and satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a stack of these golden beauties.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture. Use very ripe, spotty bananas for the best flavor.
- Rolled Oats: Provide a hearty texture. You can use quick oats if you prefer a smoother pancake.
- Eggs: Act as a binder. For an egg-free option, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
- Milk: Any plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat) works wonderfully.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, sliced bananas, chopped nuts.
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (without toppings)
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, fork or potato masher, whisk, non-stick skillet or griddle, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Batter
In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly with a fork until smooth. You want a consistent, lump-free base for your fluffy pancakes.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined and the mixture is uniform.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make your pancakes tough. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the oats to soften.
4. Heat Your Pan
Lightly grease a non-stick skillet or griddle and heat it over medium heat. A good temperature ensures even cooking without burning.
5. Cook the Pancakes
Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles form on the surface.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate. Serve immediately with your favorite Healthy Brunch Recipes toppings!
Variation Ideas:
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter for a warm spice flavor.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips during the last step of batter preparation.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate a tablespoon of finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- Blueberry Burst: Gently fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw) into the batter.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Fluffy Banana Oat Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a toaster, microwave, or warm them gently in a dry skillet until heated through. These also freeze well for up to a month; simply separate layers with parchment paper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you make these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
- Do you have to use very ripe bananas?
For the best sweetness and moisture, very ripe, spotty bananas are ideal. They are easier to mash and provide more natural sugar.
- Can you prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before and combine them in the morning for fresh pancakes.
- What if the batter seems too thick or thin?
If the batter is too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, stir in a tablespoon or two of extra oats.
- Are these pancakes suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, these are excellent for meal prepping! Cook a large batch and store them for quick, healthy breakfasts throughout the week.
- Can you bake these instead of frying?
While traditionally pan-cooked, you can bake them in a muffin tin at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes for a pancake-muffin hybrid.