Craving a delicious and wholesome breakfast? These Blueberry Whole Wheat Banana Pancakes offer a healthy and flavorful start to your day. You’ll love how simple and satisfying these Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipes are to create.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture. Use very ripe, spotty bananas for the best flavor in your Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipes.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Adds fiber and a nutty taste. You can substitute with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen work well. No need to thaw frozen blueberries beforehand.
- Milk: Any kind of dairy or non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat) will work.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: For a light and fluffy rise. Ensure they are fresh.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 ripe large banana, mashed
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted coconut oil (plus extra for cooking)
Optional:
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.
- A few drops of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2-3 (approximately 6-8 pancakes)
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 (without toppings)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, whisk, non-stick skillet or griddle, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Batter
In a large bowl, mash your ripe banana until smooth. Add the milk, egg, maple syrup (if using), and oil to the mashed banana and whisk until well combined. This liquid base is crucial for your Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipes.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. If you’re adding cinnamon or nutmeg, mix them in here too. This ensures even distribution of your dry ingredients.
3. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a whisk or spoon until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine; overmixing will lead to tough pancakes.
4. Fold in Blueberries
Carefully fold the blueberries into the batter. This step distributes the delicious fruit throughout your pancakes. Handle gently to prevent crushing the berries.
5. Cook Your Pancakes
Heat a lightly oiled non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Serve Warm
Remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and serve immediately. Top your Healthy Banana Pancakes Recipes with extra fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or your favorite healthy toppings.
Variation Ideas:
- Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips with the blueberries.
- Nutty: Mix in ¼ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Spiced Apple: Replace blueberries with grated apple and a pinch more cinnamon.
- Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder with the dry ingredients.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Blueberry Whole Wheat Banana Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster, microwave, or warm skillet until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can lead to tough pancakes. Stir just until combined. Also, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
What if I don’t have whole wheat flour?
You can substitute with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture, but the nutritional benefits will differ.
How do I prevent blueberries from sinking to the bottom?
Lightly toss the blueberries in a teaspoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps suspend them.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the pancakes immediately after mixing the batter for the fluffiest results. If you must prepare ahead, you can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine just before cooking.
