Fluffy Banana Pancakes Recipe

Transform your overripe bananas into deliciously fluffy banana pancakes that are both healthy and satisfying. This versatile recipe uses simple ingredients you likely have in your kitchen right now. Perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches, these banana pancakes offer the ideal balance of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors.

The Story Behind These Banana Pancakes

Banana pancakes have become a breakfast staple for good reason. They're not just a clever way to use up browning bananas – they're also naturally sweet, meaning you can reduce or eliminate added sugars. This Banana Pancakes recipe brings together the heartiness of oats, the protein power of eggs, and the natural sweetness of bananas to create a breakfast that's both nutritious and delicious.

Jump to:

Ingredients
Instructions
Equipment
Variations & Substitutions
Storage
Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
Top Tip
FAQ
Related
Pairing
Fluffy Banana Pancakes Recipe

Ingredients

For the basic 3-ingredient version:

2 ripe medium bananas (the riper, the sweeter)
1 cup rolled oats (or oat flour)
2 large eggs

Optional add-ins for extra flavor and nutrition:

¼ cup Greek yogurt for extra protein and fluffiness
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon baking powder for extra lift
Pinch of salt to enhance flavors

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

Mash the ripe bananas in a medium bowl until smooth and no large chunks remain
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl until well combined
If using whole rolled oats, blend them in a food processor until they reach a flour-like consistency
Combine the mashed bananas, beaten eggs, and oat flour in a large bowl Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but avoid overmixing

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat
Lightly coat the surface with cooking spray or a small amount of butter
Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake
Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes)
Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown

Equipment

Non-stick skillet or griddle
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula for flipping
Food processor or blender (if using whole oats)
Potato masher or fork for bananas

Variations & Substitutions

Keto version: Replace oats with almond flour and add a teaspoon of coconut flour
Extra protein: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the batter
Vegan option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg)
Flavor variations: Add cocoa powder, peanut butter, or blueberries to the batter

Storage

These pancakes keep well in an airtight container:
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Up to 3 months
To reheat, pop them in the toaster or microwave for 30 seconds.

Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions

These banana pancakes are naturally gluten-free (when using certified gluten-free oats), dairy-free, and contain no added sugars. They're rich in fiber, potassium, and protein, making them an excellent choice for a balanced breakfast. Serve them with:

Fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup
A dollop of Greek yogurt and honey
Nut butter and sliced bananas
A sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra protein

Top Tip

The key to perfect banana pancakes is using very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. They're sweeter and easier to mash, resulting in better-tasting pancakes with no added sugar needed.

Hints and Tips

For the fluffiest banana pancakes, let your batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking. This allows the oats to absorb some moisture and results in a better texture. If your bananas aren't quite ripe enough, you can quickly ripen them by placing them in a paper bag with an apple overnight.

FAQ

What is the secret to fluffy pancakes?

The key is not overmixing the batter and using fresh baking powder. Also, let your batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking to allow the oats to absorb moisture.

How do you make Kylie Jenner's banana pancakes?

Kylie's version uses mashed bananas, eggs, and oats - similar to our base recipe! She adds cinnamon and vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Why are IHOP pancakes so fluffy?

While IHOP's exact recipe is secret, they likely use both baking powder and baking soda, plus whipped egg whites to create their signature fluffiness.

Why are my banana pancakes so mushy?

Mushy pancakes usually mean either too much banana, too low cooking temperature, or flipping too early. Use medium heat and wait for bubbles to form before flipping.

How do I keep my pancakes fluffy?

Don't stack hot pancakes - the steam will make them soggy. Place them in a single layer on a cooling rack until ready to serve.

Can bananas be too ripe for pancakes?

No! The riper the banana, the sweeter and better for pancakes. Just avoid bananas that show signs of mold or fermentation.

Ready to Make Your Own?

These healthy banana pancakes are proof that nutritious breakfast options can be both delicious and easy to make. With just three basic ingredients and endless possibilities for customization, they're sure to become your new favorite breakfast recipe. Give them a try this weekend and let us know how they turn out in the comments below!
Check out our Ultimate Smoothie Bowl Recipe for more Healthy Breakfast meal prep ideas.

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with this recipe: