When I think about weekend mornings, the first thing that pops into my mind is the smell of something delightful frying up in the kitchen – something like Mini Banana Pancake Bites. These little treats are a family favorite, and they hold a special place in my heart. You see, growing up, my mom would whip up a batch of these on lazy Sundays when we’d gather around the breakfast table, still in our pajamas, ready to dive into a stack of warm, comforting bites. There was nothing like the joy of waking up to the sweet aroma of bananas and maple syrup mingling in the air, enticing everyone from their sleep.
Now, as a mom myself, I love to recreate these memories with my own family. There’s something magical about the simplicity of banana pancake bites – they’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and bring everyone together with smiles on their faces. Plus, they’re a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Little hands can help with mashing bananas, whisking batter, or carefully flipping these mini bites in the pan. It’s a recipe that turns breakfast into an experience filled with laughter and togetherness.
These pancake bites are not only delicious but also quite versatile. You can enjoy them plain, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, or even paired with a dollop of whipped cream. They’re perfect for those mornings when you want something a little extra special but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. The secret to these delicious bites lies in the perfect blend of bananas, cinnamon, and vanilla, creating tiny morsels of heaven with every bite.
So, the next time you find yourself with a bunch of bananas and a craving for something sweet yet simple, give these Mini Banana Pancake Bites a whirl. They’re bound to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire, just like they have in mine. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
How to Make Mini Banana Pancake Bites
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Ingredients:
- 4 bananas, sliced into 1/3 inch thick medallions
- 1 cup oat or almond milk
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp vegan butter, for frying
Directions:
- Begin by cutting your bananas into 1/3 inch thick pieces, setting them aside for later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine oat or almond milk with maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Whisk together until well blended.
- Gradually add the flour into the mixture, stirring until you have a smooth pancake batter.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1/2 tbsp of vegan butter, making sure to coat the skillet evenly with the melted butter.
- Using a fork, dip each banana slice into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated, and place them immediately in the hot skillet, keeping some space between each slice.
- Cook until the bottom is golden brown, then flip each pancake bite to cook the other side.
- Once both sides are golden, remove the pancake bites from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining banana slices and batter. Serve warm and enjoy!
Don’t Have a Specific Ingredient? Here’s What to Use Instead
If you’re out of oat or almond milk, any non-dairy milk will do just fine, such as soy or coconut milk. You can replace vegan butter with coconut oil or margarine if needed. And if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Mini Banana Pancake Bites
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or crisp them up in a skillet. They also freeze well; just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Perfect Pairings for Mini Banana Pancake Bites
These delightful bites pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can enhance the sweetness. Pair with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a hot cup of coffee for a complete breakfast.
Secrets to Perfecting Mini Banana Pancake Bites
Make sure your bananas are ripe but still firm; overripe bananas can become mushy. Keep the skillet at medium heat to avoid burning. And when flipping, be gentle to maintain the shape. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
Seasonal Twists for Mini Banana Pancake Bites
In summer, add fresh blueberries or strawberries to the batter for a burst of flavor. In the fall, try using pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal twist. Winter calls for a touch of nutmeg, while springtime can embrace a hint of lemon zest for a fresh kick.
FAQs:
Can I make these banana pancake bites without a non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! If non-dairy milk is not your thing, regular milk works just as well. The key is to maintain the batter consistency, so feel free to use whatever milk you have on hand. The flavor might vary slightly, but they’ll still taste delicious.
Are these pancake bites suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, they are! These banana pancake bites can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Simply reheat them before serving, and they’ll taste just as good. They’re a great grab-and-go breakfast option, perfect for busy mornings.
How can I make these pancake bites healthier?
To make these bites healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and reduce the maple syrup if you want to cut down on sugar. Adding chia seeds or flaxseeds can also boost the nutritional content without altering the delightful taste.
Can I add other fruits to the batter?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples. They can add an exciting flavor and texture to your pancake bites. Just ensure the added fruits are small enough to cook quickly with the banana slices.
What should I do if my pancake bites keep sticking to the pan?
If sticking is an issue, ensure your skillet is non-stick and well-greased with butter or oil. Preheating the pan before adding the bites can also help. If the problem persists, try using a little more butter or oil for each batch to achieve that perfect, non-stick surface.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients might separate slightly while resting. This can be a time-saver for busy mornings or brunch preparations.
Mini Banana Pancake Bites
Equipment
- Skillet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 4 medium bananas sliced into 1/3 inch thick medallions
- 1 cup oat or almond milk
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour regular or gluten free
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter for frying
Instructions
- Start by cutting the bananas into 1/3 inch thick slices.
To Prepare the Batter:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the oat or almond milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the flour, stirring until you create a smooth pancake batter.
To Cook the Pancake Bites:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 tablespoon of vegan butter, allowing it to melt and coat the pan.
- Use a fork to dip banana slices into the pancake batter, then place them in the hot skillet, leaving space between each piece.
- Cook until each pancake bite is golden, then flip to cook the other side.
- Once cooked on both sides, transfer the pancake bites to a plate, optionally lined with paper towels to absorb extra oil.
- Repeat the process until all the banana slices and batter are used up, and serve warm.
