Are you craving a delicious and satisfying breakfast but short on time? Look no further! This Banana Pancake Recipe using pancake mix is your answer. It's a simple, healthy, and incredibly tasty way to start your day, perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. This recipe takes homemade cooking to a new level of easy, making it an ideal choice for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick and delicious meal. Let's get started on this journey to pancake perfection!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups pancake mix (your favorite brand will do!)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 egg
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for enhanced flavor
- Toppings of your choice: maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, chocolate chips, nuts
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix and milk until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are okay.
Add the banana:
- Stir in the mashed banana, egg, and melted butter. If using, add the vanilla extract now. Gently mix until everything is well incorporated.
Cook the pancakes:
-
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake.
-
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip when bubbles start to appear on the surface and the edges look set.
Serve and enjoy:
- Serve your delicious banana pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough pancakes. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking allows the gluten to relax, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
- Adjust the heat: If your pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat. If they're taking too long to cook, increase the heat slightly.
- Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas are sweeter and will give your pancakes a better flavor.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Pancakes: Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips to the batter before cooking.
- Nutty Banana Pancakes: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Blueberry Banana Pancakes: Fold in ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries.
Nutritional Information (per pancake, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 4-5 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 5-7 grams
This easy banana pancake recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that's sure to become a family favorite. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend mornings. Enjoy!