Craving a delicious and wholesome breakfast? You can easily whip up a batch of Cinnamon Apple Banana Pancakes, a delightful twist on healthy banana pancakes recipes. These fluffy pancakes are naturally sweet and packed with flavor, making them perfect for a satisfying morning meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for natural sweetness and binding. You can use slightly overripe bananas for a sweeter taste.
- Apple: Adds a lovely texture and tartness. Pears work well as a substitute.
- Cinnamon: The star spice! Nutmeg or apple pie spice can be used if you prefer a different warm spice profile.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides fiber and a hearty texture. All-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend can be used instead.
- Egg: Acts as a binder. For an egg-free option, use a “flax egg” (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes).
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 small apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or coconut oil, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 (approximately 12 small pancakes)
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal (without toppings)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, whisk, non-stick skillet or griddle, masher or fork.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This ensures all the dry components are evenly distributed for consistent pancakes. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, mash your ripe banana until smooth. Add the unsweetened applesauce, milk, egg, and optional maple syrup, and whisk them all together until well combined. This creates a flavorful and moist base for your healthy banana pancakes recipes.
3. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough pancakes.
4. Fold in the Apple
Gently fold in the finely diced apple into the pancake batter. Distribute the apple pieces evenly throughout the mixture. Now your batter is ready for cooking!
5. Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or coconut oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and serve immediately. Top your Cinnamon Apple Banana Pancakes with extra apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a perfect breakfast.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of rolled oats for added texture and fiber.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a festive twist.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
Storage Instructions:
You can store leftover Cinnamon Apple Banana Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a toaster oven, microwave, or on a skillet until heated through. They also freeze well for up to 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are these pancakes genuinely healthy?
Yes, they are! Using whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners, and fruit makes these a healthier option compared to traditional pancakes, fitting perfectly into healthy banana pancakes recipes.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
My pancakes are sticking to the pan. What’s wrong?
Ensure your skillet is properly heated and you’ve used enough butter or oil. A non-stick pan also helps considerably.
How do I know when to flip the pancakes?
Look for small bubbles forming on the surface of the pancake and slightly dry edges. This indicates they are ready to flip.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately the night before. Combine them just before cooking for the best results.
What kind of apples work best?
Sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are excellent choices for their flavor and texture.
