Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes Recipe

If you’re looking for a pancake that’s soft, fluffy, and utterly bursting with banana flavor and caramel-y sweetness, these Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are your new go-to! Every bite features the perfect blend of ripe banana and rich brown sugar, delivering a decadent breakfast treat that’s quick and unbelievably easy to whip up—no fancy ingredients required.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing fancy here—you’re likely to have everything you need already in your kitchen. Each ingredient earns its place in this recipe, coming together to make pancakes that are soft in the middle, golden outside, and irresistibly flavorful.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and bulk for thick, satisfying pancakes; measure carefully for the best texture!
• Baking powder: This is your lift—ensuring your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are fluffy and light, never dense.
• Salt: A pinch brings out all the sweet and savory notes, balancing the flavors.
• Ripe bananas: The riper, the better—think deep yellow with brown speckles—for sweets, flavor, and that signature banana aroma.
• Melted unsalted butter: Lends richness and moisture, making each pancake melt in your mouth.
• Egg: Binds everything together and helps pancakes hold their shape while staying tender.
• Buttermilk: Its tangy note adds depth and a delicate crumb; try a homemade substitute if you’re out.
• Packed brown sugar: I love dark brown sugar for max flavor, but light works too; this sets these pancakes apart with its molasses warmth.
• Pure vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out all the sweet flavors—don’t skip it!
• For serving: Think butter, maple syrup, fresh banana slices, walnuts, or chocolate chips—these give endless room for personalization.

Variations

The beauty of Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes is just how adaptable they are. You can simply swap, add, or tweak ingredients so they suit your dietary needs, use what you have, or bring in your favorite flavors!

• Chocolate chip twist: Sprinkle chocolate chips onto each pancake right after you add the batter to the pan for a melty, dessert-inspired treat.
• Nutty delight: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy, heartier pancake.
• Dairy-free version: Swap the buttermilk for any plant-based milk plus a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar, and use melted coconut oil for richness.
• Whole wheat option: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a wholesome spin—just expect slightly denser pancakes (but still delicious!).

How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large bowl and whisking together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This simple step makes sure the leavening and salt are perfectly distributed throughout the batter for even rising and flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your mashed ripe banana, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla. The mashed banana should be as smooth as possible to blend seamlessly with the other wet ingredients, ensuring lovely banana flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour your wet ingredients over the dry and gently fold with a rubber spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix—lumps are totally fine! Overmixing leads to tough pancakes, so just fold until you don’t see any more streaks of flour.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low, and add a little butter for that golden crust. Drop the batter in about 1/3 cup portions and gently spread each into a thick circle. Cook until little bubbles form (though with this thick batter, bubbles may be subtle)—about 2-3 minutes—then flip and cook until set. Watch your heat and take it slow for perfectly cooked centers.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes hot off the griddle, stacked tall and topped with butter, warm maple syrup, and a scattering of fresh banana slices or walnuts. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a sprinkle of chocolate chips does wonders!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes

Garnishes

Your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes absolutely shine with just a little butter and maple syrup, but to really take breakfast to the next level, pile on sliced bananas, toasted chopped walnuts, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. For dessert vibes, a scatter of mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of caramel sauce makes every stack extra-special.

Side Dishes

For a classic breakfast spread, try serving these pancakes alongside salty bacon or sausage (that sweet + savory combo is out of this world!). Fresh fruit salad or a quick smoothie rounds out the meal and balances the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your pancake breakfast into a brunch party by layering pancakes with whipped cream and banana slices for a pancake “cake.” Or cut them into fun shapes for kids using cookie cutters before stacking and drizzling with syrup—perfect for birthdays or special mornings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover pancakes can be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes ideal for meal-prepped breakfasts during busy weeks—just reheat and go!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze stacked pancakes with parchment between each layer, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for 2-3 months and are perfect for quick mornings or snacks—just grab what you need and warm them up as cravings strike!

Reheating

To reheat, pop pancakes in the microwave (covered with a damp paper towel), or warm them in a toaster or low oven until heated through. They’ll taste nearly as fresh and fluffy as the day you made them!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made homemade Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, now’s the time! They’re a true family favorite—impossibly fluffy, cozy, and always crowd-pleasing. I hope you whip up a batch soon and fill your kitchen with all that incredible banana-and-brown-sugar aroma. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to add your own special touch!

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