If you’re craving a warm, nourishing breakfast that feels like a gentle hug on a plate, then you absolutely must try this Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of sweet ripe bananas, wholesome oats, and a fluffy texture that’s both satisfying and kind to your body. Each pancake carries that subtle natural sweetness and earthy note from oats, making breakfast feel like a special moment rather than just another morning routine. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which means more time enjoying and less time stressing in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role, from the creaminess of bananas to the hearty texture that oats bring. These basics pack the flavor punch and perfect texture, all while keeping it wholesome and comforting.
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour (or use all oat flour): Adds structure and gentle rise for that classic pancake fluffiness.
- 1/2 cup oat flour: Reinforces the oat flavor and makes the pancakes tender and chewy in the best way.
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats: Provides a hearty texture with a delightful bit of bite in every mouthful.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the pancakes puff up nice and light.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances sweetness.
- 2 large bananas divided: Half mashed for smooth sweetness and half sliced for fresh bursts on top.
- 2 eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (plus more for greasing): Provides moisture and helps achieve golden, crisp edges.
- 1 cup milk (any type): Makes the batter pourable and tenderizes the pancakes for softness.
How to Make Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the all purpose flour, oat flour, old fashioned oats, baking powder, and kosher salt in a large bowl. This mix forms the foundation of your pancake batter, delivering the perfect balance of fluffiness and heartiness. Setting this aside primes you for the delicious wet ingredients next.
Step 2: Prepare the Bananas
Take one large banana, about half, and mash it thoroughly until smooth—that creamy banana paste will infuse natural sweetness and moisture throughout the batter. Then, thinly slice the remaining banana to use as a tasty topping that caramelizes beautifully when cooked on the griddle.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, whisk the eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, and milk together with the mashed banana. This mixture is where the magic happens—the wet ingredients marry the sweetness, richness, and smoothness that will bring your pancake batter to life.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet banana mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently but thoroughly until everything is just combined. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps; you want to preserve that tender oat texture. Set the batter aside for 5 minutes to let the oats soak and thicken the batter slightly.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or ghee. Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and carefully arrange 3 to 4 banana slices on top. When bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set, flip the pancake and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter, keeping pancakes warm in the oven as you go.
How to Serve Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Top these pancakes with a drizzle of pure maple syrup, a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch, or even a handful of fresh berries to brighten every bite. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a dusting of cinnamon can elevate the flavors and add an extra touch of indulgence without overpowering the wholesome taste.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crispy turkey bacon or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast. A simple smoothie or a hot cup of your favorite coffee or tea pairs beautifully, making this pancake breakfast feel both nourishing and luxurious at the same time.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe high, layering with nut butter or fruit preserves between each pancake for surprise bursts of flavor. You can also create a pancake “bar” with a variety of toppings and let everyone customize their own creation – guaranteed to delight kids and adults alike!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pancakes leftover, no worries! Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them gently in the microwave for about 30 seconds or crisp them up in a toaster oven to revive that fresh-from-the-griddle texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is your best friend. Let the pancakes cool completely, then lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for 30 minutes. After they’re solid, transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. These can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you always have a healthy and delicious breakfast at the ready.
Reheating
Reheat frozen Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy on the edges. Alternatively, microwave them covered with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture if you prefer soft pancakes. Both methods work beautifully!
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free oats and flour?
Absolutely! Using certified gluten-free oat flour and oats will make this Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe gluten-free and just as delicious. Just be sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t have oat flour?
No problem! You can easily make your own by grinding rolled oats in a blender or food processor until fine. This homemade oat flour works wonderfully in these pancakes and keeps them wholesome.
Can I substitute milk?
Yes, feel free to use any milk you prefer, whether it’s dairy, almond, oat, or coconut milk. Each will add a subtle variation in flavor but will keep the batter creamy and the pancakes tender.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better! Bananas with brown spots are sweeter and will boost the natural sweetness of your pancakes without needing extra sugar. They also mash easily, blending smoothly into the batter.
Is it okay to add sweeteners like honey or sugar?
This recipe shines with the natural sweetness of the bananas, so extra sweeteners are optional. If you love sweeter pancakes, a little honey or maple syrup in the batter is fine, but often it’s not necessary.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to start the day, not just because it’s easy and wholesome, but because it tastes like a warm, comforting breakfast hug that everyone can enjoy. When you make these, you’re not just cooking pancakes—you’re creating a morning ritual full of flavor and heart. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
Print
Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 pancakes (4 inch each)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Oat Pancakes are a wholesome and easy-to-make breakfast option featuring a hearty blend of oats, oat flour, and ripe bananas. They are fluffy, mildly sweet, and perfect for a nutritious start to your day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour (or use all oat flour)
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large bananas, divided
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter, melted then cooled, plus more for greasing pan (or ghee)
- 1 cup milk (your choice of any milk)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine all-purpose flour (or oat flour), oat flour, old fashioned oats, baking powder, and kosher salt in a large bowl and set aside.
- Prepare Bananas: In a medium bowl, mash half of one banana until smooth (about 1/3 cup). Thinly slice the remaining banana and set aside for topping the pancakes.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: To the bowl with the mashed banana, add eggs, vanilla extract, melted cooled butter, and milk. Whisk thoroughly to create a smooth mixture.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and stir until fully combined. Allow the batter to rest for 5 minutes while you preheat a skillet over medium heat.
- Heat and Grease Skillet: Add a small amount of butter or ghee to a large skillet and heat over medium until the pan is nicely greased and hot.
- Cook Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet per pancake. Gently press 3 to 4 banana slices onto the top of each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, then flip and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes or until cooked through. Multiple pancakes can be cooked at once if your skillet is large enough.
- Keep Warm: Place cooked pancakes on a plate and keep them warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the remaining batter, greasing the skillet with butter or ghee as needed.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds or warm in a toaster oven.
- Freezing: Cool pancakes completely. Spread them on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American