Do you ever find yourself staring at a bunch of overripe bananas, pondering what to do with them? If so, you’re not alone! Those neglected fruits are often the secret ingredient to create something delightful. If you’re searching for a quick, easy, and healthy breakfast option, look no further than these pancakes. With just three ingredients, our banana oatmeal pancakes are not only delicious but also whip up in no time. Plus, they’re perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
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3 Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
- Total Time: 15–20 mins
Description
Quick and easy banana oatmeal pancakes made with just three ingredients, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
1 ripe banana
2 eggs
1/4 cup gluten-free oats
pinch of salt
pinch of cinnamon
1 spoonful peanut butter or almond butter (optional)
coconut oil/butter for cooking
Instructions
- Mash the banana with a fork. Whisk in the eggs, oats, salt and cinnamon until smooth. Add the peanut butter and swirl into the batter.
- Heat a tablespoon or so of coconut oil/butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for about 2 minutes, until set. You’ll want to make sure the heat isn’t too high so they don’t burn. (Add a few chocolate chips if you like!) Cook on the other side for another 30 seconds.
- Serve with bananas and maple syrup. Enjoy!
Notes
Gluten-Free: I like using gluten-free oats to keep these gluten-free.
MAKE-AHEAD: These banana pancakes can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh simply microwave the pancakes individually for 5-10 seconds.
TO FREEZE: The cooked banana pancakes can cooled, then transferred to a resealable bag to freeze. Microwave the frozen pancakes for 20-30 seconds before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 10–15 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 313kcal
- Sodium: 132MG
- Fat: 11G
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 327mg
Timing
Now that you have your ingredients prepared, let’s look at the timing. The total time from prep to plate is about 15–20 minutes, breaking down as follows:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10–15 minutes
- Total: 15–20 minutes
This quick time frame makes these pancakes a perfect choice for busy mornings when you want to fuel up without endless cooking.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
These easy banana pancakes couldn’t be easier to make! They are perfect for busy mornings or anytime you have ripe or fresh bananas to use up. No wet ingredients and dry ingredients needed. All you need is one bowl!
1. First start by mashing the banana
2. Then add the eggs, oats to the banana mixture along with a pinch of salt and cinnamon.
3. Whisk the mashed banana and everything together until smooth.
4. Add a dollop of peanut butter if you like and swirl it into the batter!
5. Cook in a nonstick skillet in a little melted butter or vegetable oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes, until set. You’ll want to make sure the heat isn’t too high so they don’t burn. You don’t want a super hot skillet. (Add a few chocolate chips if you like!)
6. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds on the second side. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Top with fresh banana slices, fresh fruit, or a simple drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy!
Healthier Alternatives if Needed
If you’re looking to make these pancakes even healthier or cater to specific dietary needs, consider the following substitutions:
- For vegan pancakes, try replacing the eggs with flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce.
- If you’re concerned about the carbs, consider using almond flour or coconut flour in place of oats (though the texture will vary).
- Adding shredded zucchini or grated carrots lends moisture and extra nutrition. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid!
Serving Suggestions
Plating your pancakes doesn’t have to be boring. Drizzle them with:
- Pure maple syrup or agave nectar for a sweet finish.
- Fresh fruit like berries, slices of banana, or even grilled peaches to add a vibrant touch.
- Greek yogurt or a dollop of nut butter for creaminess and protein.
You might even consider pairing these pancakes with a refreshing smoothie or an herbal tea to complete your breakfast spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some pitfalls can lead to gummy or flat pancakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Overmixing the batter can result in dense pancakes. Stir just until combined.
- Using unripe bananas may lead to less sweetness; ripe bananas are key for flavor.
- Cooking on high heat can burn the pancakes without cooking them through. Medium heat is your friend!
Storage Tips
If you end up with more pancakes than you can eat (which can occasionally happen with such a delectable recipe), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the pancakes with a piece of parchment paper between each to prevent them from sticking. They can last up to 2 months!
- Reheat: To warm them up, pop them in the toaster, microwave, or even a skillet briefly to get that crispiness back.
FAQs
Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before cooking.
Are these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free oats, you can easily make these pancakes gluten-free!
What toppings go well with banana oatmeal pancakes?
Consider a variety of fresh fruits, nut butter, yogurt, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. The possibilities are endless!
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Throw in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet twist that kids (and adults) will love.
How do I know when my pancakes are done?
Look for bubbles to form on the surface, and once flipped, they should be golden brown on both sides. Enjoy your delightful stack of pancakes!
Conclusion
These pancakes are an easy and wholesome treat that answers the question of what to do with those overripe bananas. They’re quick to make, versatile, and absolutely scrumptious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or seeking a healthy breakfast option, give this recipe a try! You might find it becoming a regular feature in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share the joy of these pancakes with your friends and family, or explore related recipes for a full breakfast experience.