Banana Pancakes

Banana Pancakes Recipe - Easy-to-Make Fruit Shake and Appetizer

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Banana pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, infusing the sweet, aromatic flavors of ripe bananas into fluffy, golden-brown pancakes. This recipe elevates the traditional pancake experience with the addition of a rich, peanut butter syrup, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Ideal for leisurely weekend mornings or special brunch occasions, these banana pancakes are sure to impress both family and friends with their comforting warmth and inviting flavors.

History

The concept of pancakes dates back thousands of years, with variations found in nearly every culture around the world. The addition of bananas to pancakes is a relatively modern innovation, likely inspired by the popularity of bananas in the United States and Europe during the 20th century. This recipe combines the classic American pancake with the tropical flavor of bananas, creating a dish that is both familiar and excitingly different.

Ingredients

2 cups biscuit mix (2 cups reduced fat bisquick)
1 cup buttermilk (1 cup low-fat milk)
1 cup mashed banana
2 large eggs
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp butter
0.75 cup maple syrup (0.75 cup lite syrup)
0.25 cup peanut butter (0.25 cup reduced fat Skippy peanut butter crunchy style)
strawberry syrup (optional)

How to prepare

In a large bowl, whisk together the first five ingredients until the dry ingredients are moistened.
Melt one tablespoon of butter on a hot griddle and pour about 0.25 of the batter for each pancake onto the griddle.
Cook the pancakes until the tops are covered with bubbles and the edges look done. Then, turn them over and cook the other side.
Repeat the previous step until all the pancake batter is used.
Whisk together the maple syrup and peanut butter until smooth.
Serve the pancakes with the peanut butter mixture and strawberry syrup.

Variations

1. Chocolate Chip Banana Pancakes: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
2. Nutella Banana Pancakes: Swirl Nutella into the peanut butter syrup for a decadent chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
3. Vegan Banana Pancakes: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs, use almond milk instead of low-fat milk, and opt for vegan butter.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

2. Ensure the griddle or pan is fully heated before pouring the batter to achieve an even cook and golden-brown exterior.

3. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.

4. Experiment with the thickness of the pancakes by adjusting the amount of batter used for each one to find your preferred texture.

5. Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the banana pancakes hot, topped with the creamy peanut butter syrup and a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or bananas, for added freshness and a boost of vitamins.

Cooking Techniques

For perfectly cooked pancakes, use a non-stick griddle or pan and cook on medium heat. Allow the pancakes to form bubbles on the surface before flipping them to ensure they are ready and to achieve an even golden-brown color on both sides.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Almond milk or oat milk can replace low-fat milk for a dairy-free option.

2. Gluten-free bisquick can be used for a gluten-free version.

3. For a lower-fat version, use cooking spray instead of butter for cooking the pancakes.

Make Ahead Tips

Pancake batter can be made the night before and stored in the refrigerator, tightly covered. This allows the flavors to meld and can save time in the morning. Simply give the batter a gentle stir before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Stack the pancakes high on a plate and drizzle generously with the peanut butter syrup. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a few banana slices, and a dollop of whipped cream for an eye-catching presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair banana pancakes with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk to complement the richness of the dish. For a lighter option, a citrusy mimosa or a fresh fruit smoothie can provide a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster or a warm oven until heated through. The peanut butter syrup can be stored separately in the refrigerator and gently warmed before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of banana pancakes, including the peanut butter syrup, typically contains between 400 and 500 calories. This makes it a substantial breakfast option that can provide energy for the morning's activities.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of banana pancakes primarily provides energy through carbohydrates. The bisquick mix, bananas, and syrup contribute to the total carbohydrate content, which is essential for energy production. A typical serving may contain approximately 60-70 grams of carbohydrates, varying with modifications to the recipe or serving size.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the butter, peanut butter, and low-fat milk. These ingredients contribute to the dish's overall richness and mouthfeel. A serving of banana pancakes might contain around 15-20 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Proteins in this dish are provided by the eggs, milk, and peanut butter. These ingredients help make the pancakes more satisfying and nutritionally balanced. Each serving could offer approximately 10-15 grams of protein, supporting muscle health and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana pancakes are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium from the bananas, calcium and vitamin D from the milk, and various B vitamins from the eggs and bisquick mix. These nutrients support a range of bodily functions, from bone health to energy metabolism.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the bisquick), eggs, dairy (from the milk and butter), and peanuts (from the peanut butter). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should consider appropriate substitutions.

Summary

Overall, banana pancakes offer a delicious and energy-rich breakfast option. While they provide essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals, they are also relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. Enjoying them in moderation as part of a balanced diet is recommended.

Summary

Banana pancakes with peanut butter syrup offer a delightful and satisfying breakfast option that combines the comforting flavors of classic pancakes with the sweet, tropical taste of bananas. With tips for making, serving, and customizing, this recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether for a special brunch or a cozy morning meal, these pancakes are sure to become a cherished favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Banana Pancakes. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who lived in a charming little cottage just outside of town. Margaret was known for her delicious baked goods, and she had a knack for creating recipes that were both simple and incredibly tasty.

As soon as I walked into Margaret's kitchen, I was greeted by the heavenly aroma of ripe bananas and cinnamon. Margaret was at the stove, flipping golden pancakes with a practiced hand. "Come sit down, dear," she said with a smile. "I'm just finishing up a batch of my famous Banana Pancakes. Would you like to try some?"

I eagerly accepted her offer and watched as she plated the pancakes and drizzled them with maple syrup. With the first bite, I was hooked. The pancakes were light and fluffy, with just the right amount of sweetness from the bananas. I couldn't believe how delicious they were.

"How did you come up with this recipe?" I asked Margaret, amazed at her culinary skills.

Margaret chuckled and poured me a cup of tea. "Oh, it's nothing special, really. I just combined a few different recipes I found in old cookbooks and added my own twist. Bananas are such a versatile fruit, and they add a wonderful flavor and texture to pancakes."

I was intrigued by Margaret's creativity and asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. She agreed without hesitation and even wrote it down on a little index card for me to take home. I thanked her profusely and promised to make the pancakes for my family the following weekend.

True to my word, I whipped up a batch of Banana Pancakes the next Saturday morning. The smell of ripe bananas and cinnamon filled the kitchen as I mixed the batter and poured it onto the griddle. My family gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting their breakfast.

As soon as I served the pancakes, my husband and children dug in with gusto. Their eyes widened in delight as they savored the first bite. "These are amazing!" my husband exclaimed between mouthfuls. "You have to make these again!"

I beamed with pride, knowing that I had stumbled upon a winning recipe. From that day on, Banana Pancakes became a regular fixture on our weekend breakfast menu. I even began to experiment with different variations, adding nuts, chocolate chips, or a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about the delectable pancakes. I became known as the "Banana Pancake Queen" among my circle of loved ones, and I wore the title with pride. Whenever someone needed a pick-me-up or a special treat, they knew they could count on me to whip up a batch of Banana Pancakes.

As time went on, I continued to refine the recipe, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until I had perfected it to my liking. I even entered a local cooking competition and walked away with the first-place prize for my Banana Pancakes. It was a proud moment for me, knowing that I had created something truly special.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of cinnamon and bananas, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous moment when I stumbled upon this recipe. It has brought joy and deliciousness into my life and the lives of those I love. And for that, I will always cherish the memory of that warm summer day at Margaret's cottage, where the magic of Banana Pancakes first began.