Easy Banana Pancake Bites Recipe

Banana Pancake Bites are the perfect way to combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the fluffiness of pancakes, creating a delicious and healthy breakfast that the entire family can enjoy. These mini pancake bites are simple to make, and they can easily be adapted to fit various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free diets.

What You’ll Need for Easy Banana Pancake Bites

Before you begin, let’s gather all the ingredients. You may already have most of these items in your kitchen!

Essential Ingredients:

• Bananas: You’ll need 3-4 ripe bananas. The riper the banana, the sweeter and softer it will be, which is perfect for this recipe.

• Plant-Based Milk: We recommend oat or almond milk, but you can use any milk of your choice. If you aren’t vegan, regular milk works as well.

• Maple Syrup: Maple syrup adds natural sweetness to the batter. You can also use agave nectar or honey for a different twist.

• Baking Powder: Baking powder is essential for making the pancake bites light and fluffy around the edges.

• Vanilla Extract: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. A little goes a long way!

• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and enhances the flavor of the banana. Feel free to leave it out if you don’t like it.

• Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten.

• Butter: You can use either regular butter or vegan butter, depending on your preference. Butter is used to cook the pancake bites and give them a golden, crispy exterior.

How to Make Easy Banana Pancake Bites

The process for making banana pancake bites is simple, and the results are always delicious. Follow these easy steps to whip up this tasty treat:

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

Begin by slicing the bananas into 1/3-inch thick medallions. The slices should be thick enough to hold up in the pancake batter but not so thick that they don’t cook evenly.

Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Once everything is well combined, slowly add the flour and stir until you get a smooth pancake batter. If you like a thicker batter, feel free to add a little more flour until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 3: Cook the Pancake Bites

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, add 1-2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan evenly.

Using a fork, dip each banana slice into the pancake batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Carefully place each coated banana slice into the skillet, ensuring there’s space between each piece so they don’t stick together. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once all the banana pancake bites are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. You can line the plate with paper towels to absorb any excess oil or butter.

Now, you’re ready to serve! These pancake bites are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a fun treat for kids.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Banana Pancake Bites

Banana Pancake Bites are versatile, and you can serve them in a variety of delicious ways. Whether you prefer to keep things simple or get creative with toppings, there’s an option for everyone. Here are a few ideas to elevate your pancake bites:

1. Classic Maple Syrup

For the traditional breakfast experience, drizzle warm maple syrup over the pancake bites just before serving. The combination of the sweetness from the bananas and the syrup is always a crowd-pleaser.

2. Coconut Whipped Cream

For an indulgent treat, top your pancake bites with whipped coconut cream. Its light, fluffy texture pairs beautifully with the warm pancakes, adding richness without overpowering the natural flavors of the bananas.

3. Berries and Nuts

Add some fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to your plate for a fruity burst of flavor. Top with a handful of crushed nuts such as walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and a dose of healthy fats.

4. Vegan Yogurt

Serve the pancake bites alongside your favorite dairy-free yogurt. It’s a great way to add some protein and creaminess to your meal. You can even drizzle a little honey or agave syrup for added sweetness.

5. Powdered Sugar and Cinnamon

For a lighter, more festive option, dust the pancake bites with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This simple touch brings out the warm flavors of the cinnamon and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Store Leftover Pancake Bites

While these Easy Banana Pancake Bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers to enjoy later.

Refrigerating

Let the pancake bites cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat them in a pan over low heat to restore some of their crispy texture.

Freezing

To store your pancake bites for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in a skillet or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions on Easy Banana Pancake Bites

Can I make these pancake bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just give the batter a quick stir and follow the recipe instructions.

What other fruits can I use instead of bananas?

You can easily swap bananas with other fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or apple slices. However, keep in mind that different fruits may affect the cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

Can I make these pancake bites without maple syrup?

Absolutely! If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute it with honey, agave syrup, or even a bit of brown sugar. The syrup is primarily for sweetness, so feel free to experiment with alternatives.

How can I make these banana pancake bites fluffier?

For fluffier pancakes, make sure you’re using enough baking powder in the batter. If you want an even fluffier texture, you can add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk to create a buttermilk-like effect.

Nutritional Breakdown of Easy Banana Pancake Bites

These Easy Banana Pancake Bites not only taste delicious but are also packed with essential nutrients. Below is a detailed nutritional breakdown for each serving (based on 1 serving of 4-5 pancake bites):

These pancake bites offer a good balance of carbs and healthy fats from the banana and plant-based milk. They’re also rich in potassium and fiber, which are beneficial for heart health and digestion. With only 148 calories per serving, these mini pancakes are a guilt-free treat that can easily fit into your breakfast routine.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious breakfast that everyone will love, these Easy Banana Pancake Bites are a must-try. Whether you’re a busy parent, someone looking for a fun brunch idea, or just a fan of pancakes, these little bites will never disappoint.

• Quick and Easy: In just about 25 minutes, you can make a batch of these pancake bites.

• Customizable: The recipe can be easily tailored to your dietary preferences—vegan, gluten-free, or even dairy-free!

• Kid-Approved: These mini pancakes are easy for kids to eat and can be packed with hidden nutrients like fruits and nuts.

Make these Easy Banana Pancake Bites for your next family breakfast or as a snack that will impress your guests!

Conclusion on Easy Banana Pancake Bites

Easy Banana Pancake Bites are a delightful, fun, and healthy breakfast or snack option that’s perfect for everyone in the family. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a weekend treat, these mini pancake bites offer a great balance of sweetness and fluffiness, with the added goodness of bananas.

Feel free to get creative with toppings, experiment with different ingredients, and adjust the recipe to your taste preferences. With the tips and tricks in this guide, you’re sure to make perfect banana pancake bites every time.

Recipe Card: Easy Banana Pancake Bites

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas, sliced into 1/3-inch thick medallions

• 1 cup oat or almond milk (or regular milk)

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or agave syrup)

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

• 2 tablespoons butter (regular or vegan for frying)

Instructions

1. Slice the bananas into 1/3-inch thick medallions.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Add flour and stir until the batter forms.

3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and coat the pan.

4. Dip each banana slice into the pancake batter and place it into the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; leave some space between each pancake bite.

5. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side.

6. Once golden and crisp on both sides, remove the pancake bites from the skillet and place them on a plate. Optionally, line the plate with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

7. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, or berries.

Notes

• Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the sweetest and softest texture.

• Flour: You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.

• Pan: For best results, use a non-stick pan or griddle.

• Keep Warm: If making multiple batches, keep the pancakes warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven on a baking sheet.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 148 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 4g

  • Saturated Fat: 1g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 2g

• Sodium: 181mg

• Potassium: 225mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugars: 11g

• Vitamin A: 163 IU

• Vitamin C: 5mg

• Calcium: 117mg

• Iron: 1mg

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Method: Pan-Fry

Cuisine: American

Servings: 8

Calories: 148 kcal per serving

Yield: 8 servings