There’s something undeniably comforting about starting your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes, especially when they’re packed with wholesome ingredients! These Banana Oatmeal Pancakes are the epitome of a nourishing breakfast that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Made with old-fashioned rolled oats and ripe bananas, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also packed with nutrients to fuel your day. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or an indulgent weekend treat, these pancakes will surely become a favorite in your household.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Banana Oatmeal Pancakes truly special is their wholesome nature. By incorporating oats and Greek yogurt, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also adding protein and fiber to your meal. Plus, the natural sweetness from the bananas means you can cut back on added sugars without sacrificing taste. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize your toppings and mix-ins to suit your preferences. They’re gluten-free if you opt for gluten-free oats, making them a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.

What’s in the Bowl

To create these fluffy pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats or quick oats (gluten-free if needed)
1 ½ cups mashed banana (about 2 very large bananas)
¾ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt plus 2 tablespoons
¾ cup nonfat milk plus 2 tablespoons (or substitute milk of choice)
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon honey
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (aluminum-free recommended)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

You can also personalize your pancakes with optional toppings such as maple syrup, butter, honey, Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, peanut butter, or any other pancake topping you love.

Must-Have Equipment

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential tools needed to make these delightful pancakes:

Blender or Food Processor: For blending the oats into a flour-like consistency.
Mixing Bowl: To combine all your pancake ingredients.
Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: For cooking the pancakes evenly.
Spatula: To flip the pancakes without breaking them.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.

Cooking Banana Oatmeal Pancakes: The Process

Making these Banana Oatmeal Pancakes is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stack.

Step 1: Prepare the Oats

Start by blending the rolled oats in a blender or food processor until they reach a flour-like consistency. This will be the base of your pancake batter, giving it a wholesome texture.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended oats with the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, eggs, honey, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 3: Preheat the Skillet

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can lightly grease it with a bit of oil or non-stick spray if needed.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

Once the skillet is hot, pour about ¼ cup of the pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface. Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the pancakes from the skillet and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Maple syrup, fresh fruit, and a dollop of Greek yogurt work beautifully!

What to Use Instead

If you’re looking for alternatives or substitutions for certain ingredients, consider the following options:

Oats: You can use quick oats instead of rolled oats, but avoid steel-cut oats and instant oats.
Greek Yogurt: Substitute with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
Milk: Any non-dairy milk (like almond milk or oat milk) works well in this recipe.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a sweetener.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues while making your Banana Oatmeal Pancakes, here are some helpful tips:

If the batter seems too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
For fluffier pancakes, let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking.
Make sure your skillet is adequately preheated to prevent the pancakes from sticking.
Adjust the heat as needed; too high can burn the pancakes while leaving the inside raw.

Prep Ahead & Store

These pancakes can be prepared ahead of time for a quick breakfast option during the week. Here’s how:

Make the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooked pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, pop them in the toaster or microwave until warmed through.

Quick Questions

Can I make these pancakes vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a dairy-free yogurt and milk alternative.

How do I know when the pancakes are done cooking?

The pancakes are done when they are golden brown on both sides and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I add extra ingredients to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or berries for added flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover pancakes?

Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

See You at the Table

As you stack your Banana Oatmeal Pancakes high, don’t forget to take a moment to savor the aroma wafting through your kitchen. The combination of bananas, oats, and warm spices will fill your home with a sense of comfort and joy. These pancakes are not only good for the body but also for the soul, making them a perfect addition to your breakfast rotation. So gather your loved ones, pour some maple syrup, and enjoy a delightful meal together!

With every bite of these Banana Oatmeal Pancakes, you’ll appreciate the simple yet satisfying flavors that come together in perfect harmony. Whether you enjoy them on a lazy Sunday morning or as a quick weekday breakfast, they are sure to bring a smile to your face and energy to your day. Happy cooking!