Easy Banana Nut Pancakes: A Delicious and Simple Breakfast Recipe

Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious breakfast recipe? Look no further than these banana nut pancakes! This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches. It requires minimal ingredients, comes together in minutes, and tastes absolutely amazing. The combination of sweet bananas, crunchy nuts, and fluffy pancakes is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter!

This blog post will walk you through each step of making these fantastic pancakes, from gathering your ingredients to serving them with your favorite toppings. We’ll also share some helpful tips and variations to customize the recipe to your liking. Get ready to enjoy a stack of warm, comforting, and utterly delicious banana nut pancakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why you’ll absolutely adore these banana nut pancakes:

* **Easy and Quick:** This recipe is incredibly simple and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of banana and nuts creates a sweet and nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible.
* **Perfect for Ripe Bananas:** Got some overripe bananas? This is the perfect way to use them up!
* **Customizable:** You can easily customize this recipe with different nuts, spices, and toppings.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Kids love these pancakes, making them a great option for family breakfasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these banana nut pancakes:

* **1 ½ cups all-purpose flour:** Provides the structure for the pancakes.
* **2 tablespoons granulated sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
* **2 teaspoons baking powder:** Creates light and fluffy pancakes.
* **½ teaspoon baking soda:** Helps the pancakes rise and become tender.
* **¼ teaspoon salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **1 ½ cups milk:** Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
* **2 large eggs:** Provide richness and structure.
* **4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted:** Adds flavor and tenderness.
* **1 teaspoon vanilla extract:** Enhances the sweetness and adds a pleasant aroma.
* **1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium):** Provides sweetness, moisture, and banana flavor.
* **½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds):** Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
* **Optional toppings:** Maple syrup, butter, whipped cream, fresh fruit, chocolate chips, etc.

Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need:

* **Large mixing bowl:** For mixing the batter.
* **Whisk or fork:** For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate measuring.
* **Griddle or large skillet:** For cooking the pancakes.
* **Spatula:** For flipping the pancakes.
* **Ladle or measuring cup:** For pouring the batter onto the griddle.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part: making the pancakes! Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect banana nut pancakes every time.

**Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients**

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.

**Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients**

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

**Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough pancakes. A few lumps are okay!

**Step 4: Add Bananas and Nuts**

Gently fold in the mashed bananas and chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

**Step 5: Cook the Pancakes**

Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large skillet over medium heat. You can use cooking spray or a small amount of butter to grease the surface. To test if the griddle is hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If the water sizzles and evaporates quickly, it’s ready.

Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s time to flip when bubbles start to form on the surface of the pancakes and the edges begin to set.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!**

Serve the banana nut pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, butter, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chocolate chips. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

Here are a few tips to help you make the best banana nut pancakes:

* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry about a few lumps.
* **Use Ripe Bananas:** Ripe bananas are sweeter and easier to mash, resulting in better-tasting pancakes.
* **Adjust the Heat:** If the pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat. If they’re not browning enough, increase the heat.
* **Use a Non-Stick Griddle:** A non-stick griddle will prevent the pancakes from sticking and make them easier to flip.
* **Keep Pancakes Warm:** If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked pancakes warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until ready to serve.

Variations and Additions

Want to add a little twist to your banana nut pancakes? Here are a few variations and additions to try:

* **Chocolate Chips:** Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra sweetness.
* **Spices:** Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for a warm and comforting flavor.
* **Different Nuts:** Experiment with different types of nuts, such as macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, or pecans.
* **Oatmeal:** Add ½ cup of rolled oats to the batter for a heartier texture.
* **Blueberries:** Add ½ cup of blueberries to the batter for a burst of fruity flavor.
* **Peanut Butter:** Swirl a spoonful of peanut butter into each pancake while it’s cooking for a delicious peanut butter banana flavor.
* **Vegan Pancakes:** Substitute the milk with plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk), use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use vegan butter or oil.
* **Gluten-Free Pancakes:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour.

Serving Suggestions

These banana nut pancakes are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

* **Maple Syrup:** A classic topping for pancakes.
* **Butter:** Adds richness and flavor.
* **Whipped Cream:** A light and fluffy topping.
* **Fresh Fruit:** Sliced bananas, berries, or peaches.
* **Chocolate Sauce:** For a decadent treat.
* **Nutella:** A hazelnut spread that pairs perfectly with bananas.
* **Powdered Sugar:** A simple and elegant topping.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftover pancakes, you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer.

* **Refrigerator:** Store the pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or toaster.
* **Freezer:** Store the pancakes in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave. Then, reheat them in the microwave, oven, or toaster.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per pancake)

* Calories: 200-250
* Protein: 5-7g
* Fat: 8-12g
* Carbohydrates: 25-35g
* Fiber: 1-2g
* Sugar: 8-12g

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen bananas?**

A: Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.

**Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?**

A: It’s best to make the batter fresh, as it can become thick and dense if left to sit for too long. However, you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately ahead of time and combine them just before cooking.

**Q: Can I freeze the pancakes?**

A: Yes, you can freeze the pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or toaster.

**Q: What if I don’t have baking soda?**

A: Baking soda helps the pancakes rise and become tender. If you don’t have any, you can try using a little extra baking powder (about ½ teaspoon more).

**Q: What can I use instead of butter?**

A: You can use melted coconut oil or vegetable oil instead of butter. However, butter adds a richer flavor.

**Q: My pancakes are sticking to the griddle. What am I doing wrong?**

A: Make sure your griddle is properly preheated and lightly oiled. You may also need to adjust the heat. If the heat is too low, the pancakes will stick. If the heat is too high, they will burn.

Conclusion

These easy banana nut pancakes are a delightful way to start your day. They’re quick to make, incredibly delicious, and customizable to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a simple breakfast recipe or a fun weekend brunch option, these pancakes are sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your griddle, and get ready to enjoy a stack of warm, fluffy, and utterly irresistible banana nut pancakes!

Enjoy cooking and happy eating!