If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a warm, cozy hug, these Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are the answer. Fluffy and fragrant, each bite is a perfect marriage of sweet banana, caramel-like brown sugar, and a hint of spice. They’re simple enough for busy mornings but special enough to turn an ordinary day into something memorable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is about to become your go-to for mornings that need a little extra love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need many ingredients to whip up these pancakes, but every single one plays an important part in creating that irresistible flavor, tender crumb, and mouthwatering aroma. Here’s what you’ll need to bring your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes to life:
- Mashed ripe bananas: Ensure your bananas are deeply speckled for maximum natural sweetness and a rich banana flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure while keeping your pancakes soft and fluffy.
- Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a lush caramel undertone that truly sets these pancakes apart.
- Baking powder: This is the magic ingredient for lift and airy texture.
- Salt: Just a touch balances the sweetness and deepens the other flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses every bite with gentle warmth and homey aroma.
- Milk: Loosens the batter for tender pancakes; whole, skim, or a favorite non-dairy option all work beautifully.
- Large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to that golden finish.
- Melted butter or oil: Adds richness and keeps the pancakes luxuriously moist.
- Vanilla extract: A little vanilla turns these sweet pancakes into something truly irresistible.
- Butter or oil for the skillet: Guarantees crisp, golden edges and an easy flip.
How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Begin by grabbing your largest mixing bowl. Whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures the brown sugar gets evenly distributed and prevents any bitter clumps of baking powder later. You’ll start catching the scent of cinnamon right away—always a good sign.
Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mash your ripe bananas until mostly smooth—a few tiny lumps are just fine and will add texture. Whisk in the milk, egg, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract. This creamy, fragrant mixture is where the signature banana flavor really comes alive.
Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry, then gently stir everything together. Stop the moment you see the last streak of flour disappear—overmixing can make pancakes tough. The batter should be slightly lumpy and thick, promising extra fluff in your final stack.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium and brush it with a little butter or oil. When it’s hot but not smoking, scoop a quarter cup of batter for each pancake. Watch for bubbles forming on the surface and for the edges to look set, about 2 to 3 minutes, then flip. Cook another 1 to 2 minutes until both sides are deeply golden and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your pancakes to a plate, ideally keeping them warm in a low oven as you go. Pile them high and serve straight away with your choice of butter, syrup, sliced bananas, or nuts. Get ready for compliments on these Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Garnishes
Sometimes, it’s the little touches that turn a good breakfast into a breakfast to remember! Pile your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes with slices of fresh banana, a shower of chopped pecans or walnuts, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of pure maple syrup. For a decadent twist, mini chocolate chips or caramel sauce can be delightful on top.
Side Dishes
These pancakes are wonderful with classic breakfast sides. Try crispy bacon or savory sausage links to balance the natural sweetness. A bowl of fresh berries or a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt adds a bright, refreshing contrast no one can resist.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your brunch guests, stack your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes in a tall tower, tucked with banana slices between each layer. Or try making silver dollar pancakes for a playful, kid-friendly version. For special occasions, garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon across the top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap cooled pancakes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll still taste soft and delicious for a few quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. This keeps them from sticking together. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months, and simply pull out single servings whenever you crave Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen pancakes in a toaster for those crisp edges, or warm in the microwave for 15–30 seconds per pancake if you’re in a hurry. If reheating several at once, cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour adds a nutty depth and extra fiber. Substitute up to half the white flour with whole wheat; just note your pancakes may be slightly denser but just as delicious.
What type Breakfast
The riper, the better. Bananas with plenty of brown spots deliver maximum sweetness and mash easily, creating the best flavor for your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes.
Can I make these pancakes dairy-free?
Yes! Use your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond, soy, or oat) and swap the butter for oil or plant-based margarine. They’ll still be soft, fluffy, and full of flavor.
How can I make the pancakes extra fluffy?
A gentle hand is key; stir the batter only until combined and cook on medium heat. Letting the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking can also give your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes more lift.
Is it possible to add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chocolate chips, blueberries, or toasted nuts are all tempting additions. Toss them into the batter at the end to avoid overmixing and let your imagination run wild.
Final Thoughts
So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a stack of Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes tomorrow morning? They’re cozy, endlessly customizable, and genuinely simple to make. Once you’ve tasted the warm, caramelized magic of these pancakes, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Happy cooking!
Print
Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these fluffy and flavorful Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes for a delightful breakfast treat. These easy homemade pancakes are infused with sweet mashed bananas and a hint of cinnamon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Top them with butter, syrup, or your favorite toppings for a scrumptious morning meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- butter or oil for the skillet
Instructions
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter will be slightly lumpy.
- Cook Pancakes: Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Repeat with remaining batter. Serve warm with butter, syrup, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts.
Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add mini chocolate chips or toasted pecans to the batter.
- These pancakes freeze well—just reheat in a toaster or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
