I’ve got a foolproof recipe that’ll make you feel like a pro in no time: Banana Pancakes.
This recipe is my go-to because it’s simple, quick, and the results are always delicious.
I’ll walk you through each step, making sure you understand exactly what to do and why.
And the best part?
You’ll pick up some essential cooking skills along the way, making this recipe not just about eating well, but also about building your confidence in the kitchen.
Let’s get started and make some amazing banana pancakes together.
Ingredients:
To serve 4 people generously, you will need:
- Flour: 250g (about 2 cups) of all-purpose flour, a staple in pancake batter for its versatility and perfect texture.
- Sugar: 50g (about 1/4 cup) of white sugar, to sweeten your pancakes just right.
- Baking Powder: 15ml (1 tablespoon), ensuring your pancakes are fluffy and light.
- Salt: A pinch, to balance and enhance the flavours.
- Milk: 375ml (about 1 and 1/2 cups) of milk, to bring your batter to the perfect consistency.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, to bind your ingredients together and add richness.
- Butter: 30g (about 2 tablespoons), melted, for a buttery, indulgent flavour.
- Bananas: 2 ripe bananas, mashed, for that unmistakable, sweet banana taste.
- Vanilla Extract: 5ml (1 teaspoon), for a hint of aromatic flavour.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Frying pan or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
Preparing the Batter:
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Whisk these together to ensure they are well mixed and to introduce air for fluffiness.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract.
- Mix these until smooth and fully integrated.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Make a well in the centre of your dry ingredients.
- Pour the wet mixture into the well.
- Gently fold everything together until just combined. Remember, a few lumps are okay; overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
Cooking the Pancakes:
- Preheat Your Pan:
- Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat.
- A drop of water should dance on the surface when it’s ready.
- Cooking in Batches:
- For each pancake, ladle about 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 1-2 minutes.
- Flip with a spatula and cook the other side until golden brown, another 1-2 minutes.
- Serving:
- Serve hot, with a knob of butter melting on top.
- Maple syrup, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar make perfect toppings.
Tips for Success:
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more pronounced the banana flavour in your pancakes.
- Batter Consistency: If your batter is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach a pourable consistency.
- Heat Management: Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning. If your pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat.
Additional Tips for Perfect Banana Pancakes
To elevate your banana pancake experience and ensure success every time, consider these extra tips:
Getting the Perfect Flip:
- Wait for Bubbles: Before flipping, ensure the surface of the pancake is bubbly and the edges look slightly dry. This indicates the bottom has set and is golden brown.
- Confident Flip: Use a wide spatula and commit to a quick, confident flip. Hesitation can lead to folded or broken pancakes.
Customization Ideas:
Banana pancakes are versatile. Here are some ideas to customize your pancakes and make them even more delightful:
- Add-Ins: Consider folding in chocolate chips, blueberries, or nuts into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Toppings: Apart from traditional butter and syrup, try topping your pancakes with whipped cream, fresh fruit slices, or a drizzle of caramel for a decadent touch.
Storing and Reheating:
If you have leftovers or want to prepare pancakes in advance:
- Storing: Cool the pancakes completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm them in a toaster or a pan for a quick and satisfying breakfast. If frozen, there’s no need to thaw; just reheat directly.
Serving Suggestions:
To make your banana pancake breakfast truly special, consider these serving suggestions:
- Sides: Serve with sides of crispy bacon, fresh fruit salad, or yogurt to balance the meal.
- Beverages: Freshly brewed coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk complements the flavors wonderfully.
Learning and Experimenting:
As you become more comfortable with making pancakes, don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe.
Adjusting the amount of sugar, trying different flours, or adding new ingredients can lead to exciting discoveries.
Cooking is as much about creativity as it is about following recipes.
Mastering the art of banana pancakes is a rewarding endeavor that brings warmth and joy to the breakfast table.
We hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to create delightful banana pancakes that impress your friends, family, and most importantly, yourself.
If there’s anything more you’d like to know or if you have specific questions, feel free to ask!