Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe
If you are looking for a breakfast treat that feels like a warm hug on your plate, this Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe is going to become your new weekend favorite. These pancakes are fluffy with a tender crumb, enriched by the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and a subtle caramel undertone from the brown sugar. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful aroma and a flavor profile that balances sweetness and warmth perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in a cozy solo brunch, this Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe promises comfort and deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these pancakes lies in their simplicity, with everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each element has a purpose: from the lightness brought by baking powder to the rich sweetness of brown sugar, every bite reflects a thoughtfully balanced mix.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to the pancakes and a tender texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the pancakes rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- ¾ cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 small bananas): Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a lovely banana flavor.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for greasing: Adds richness and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the fluffy texture.
- ¾ cup buttermilk: Adds tangy depth and reacts with the baking powder for lift.
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar (dark brown preferred): Infuses a deep caramel flavor and moistness.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- Butter, maple syrup, sliced banana, walnuts, chocolate chips: Perfect toppings to customize your pancakes.
How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed, which is key for pancakes that rise perfectly every time.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth, then add melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix gently until everything is just combined—you want to keep the batter light and airy without overmixing.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, folding them together carefully. It’s fine to have a few little lumps; overmixing can make the pancakes tough instead of fluffy and soft.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-low heat and grease it with butter. Use a ⅓ cup measure to drop batter onto the pan, gently spreading the batter into circles if needed. Cook until you see bubbles forming on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown and cooked through. This step is where the scent of brown sugar and banana starts to fill your kitchen—pure magic.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Top your pancakes with a pat of butter that melts delightfully over the warm stack, then drizzle with maple syrup to add a sweet, sticky finish. Fresh sliced banana adds a fresh burst of flavor, while toasted walnuts give a crunchy, nutty contrast. For a little indulgence, sprinkle chocolate chips that gently melt over the warm pancakes.
Side Dishes
These pancakes make a hearty centerpiece, but pairing them with crispy bacon or savory sausage adds a wonderful balance of salty and sweet. A simple fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt can also lighten the meal while complementing the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the pancakes high for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece and add a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. For a fun twist, layer the pancakes with cream cheese or mascarpone and fruit between each layer. You can even drizzle caramel sauce in a pretty spiral for a café-style presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them fresh by storing your pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them moist without becoming soggy.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is your best friend. Lay cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then stack with parchment paper between each pancake in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months.
Reheating
To reheat, pop frozen pancakes straight into a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy at the edges. This way, you get that freshly made feel even days later.
FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
While regular sugar will work, brown sugar adds a rich, molasses-like flavor that truly complements the bananas. Using brown sugar is what makes this recipe special.
Do I have to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk creates a tender, fluffy texture and adds subtle tanginess, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick fix.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg, replace buttermilk with almond or oat milk plus an acid, and use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative instead of butter.
What’s the best banana to use?
Ripe bananas with brown spots are ideal because they’re sweeter and softer, which enhances both flavor and moisture in the pancakes.
How do I know when to flip the pancakes?
Look for small bubbles forming on the surface and edges that start to look set. That’s the signal to flip for a golden finish without breaking or undercooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about making a batch of Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe—it’s comfort, flavor, and a bit of sweet nostalgia all in one. Whether you’re crafting a breakfast for loved ones or treating yourself to a delicious start, this recipe is approachable, satisfying, and utterly delicious. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and enjoy the warm smiles that come with every bite.
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Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are fluffy and flavorful, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich taste of brown sugar. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these pancakes are topped with butter, maple syrup, and optional walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 small bananas)
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for greasing griddle
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Toppings (optional)
- Butter
- Maple syrup
- Sliced banana
- Walnuts
- Chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure they are evenly mixed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add in the melted unsalted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine all the wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet banana mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Gently fold together until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep pancakes light and fluffy.
- Preheat Griddle: Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-low heat. Grease the surface lightly with butter to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
- Cook Pancakes: Scoop approximately ⅓ cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Spread the batter gently to form circles. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the pancakes with a spatula and cook an additional 2 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes hot topped with butter and maple syrup. Add optional sliced bananas, walnuts, or chocolate chips as desired for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Adjust heat as necessary to ensure pancakes cook through without burning.
- Do not overmix batter; lumps are fine and help keep pancakes tender.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
