What Are Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes?
Banana chocolate chip pancakes are a sweet twist on classic pancakes, made with ripe bananas for natural sweetness and chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent touch. The bananas add moisture, making the pancakes soft and flavorful, while the chocolate melts into gooey bites of deliciousness.
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Fluffy Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Fluffy Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes are sweet, soft, and packed with melty chocolate chips. A perfect breakfast or brunch recipe the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- ¾ cup milk (or almond/oat milk)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (or oil)
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
- Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions
- Mash the banana in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Whisk dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt) in a separate bowl.
- Mix wet ingredients (egg, milk, vanilla, melted butter) into the mashed banana.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in chocolate chips evenly.
- Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium-low heat and grease lightly.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the pan. Cook until bubbles form on top (about 2 minutes).
- Flip carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with syrup, fresh fruit, or extra chocolate chips. Enjoy!
Notes
- For vegan pancakes, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
- For gluten-free pancakes, use oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Banana chocolate chip pancakes, fluffy banana pancakes, easy pancake recipe, homemade pancakes
Table of Contents
Why Are They So Popular?
These pancakes have gained popularity because they’re:
✅ Easy to make – Just mash bananas, mix the batter, and cook!
✅ Healthier than regular pancakes – Bananas replace some sugar and fat.
✅ A kid-friendly favorite – The mix of chocolate and fruit makes them irresistible.
✅ Perfect for using up ripe bananas – A great way to reduce food waste!
The Perfect Balance of Banana and Chocolate
The key to great banana chocolate chip pancakes is getting the balance right:
- Too much banana? Pancakes can turn mushy.
- Too many chocolate chips? They may overpower the banana flavor.
- The ideal ratio: One medium banana per 1 cup of pancake batter + ¼ cup chocolate chips.
Looking for more tasty and wholesome recipes? Sip on a refreshing Homemade Kefir to boost your gut health, or satisfy your savory cravings with these cheesy Pizza Sticks—perfect for a snack or party appetizer! And if you love a sweet treat with a healthy twist, these Blackberry Oatmeal Cookies are a must-bake. Enjoy! 🍕🍪🥛
Ingredients for the Best Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Essential Ingredients for a Fluffy Texture
To achieve light and fluffy pancakes, you need the right combination of ingredients:
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Ripe Bananas | Add natural sweetness and moisture |
| All-Purpose Flour | The base for structure and fluffiness |
| Baking Powder | Helps the pancakes rise |
| Eggs | Binds the ingredients together |
| Milk (or Buttermilk) | Adds richness and a tender texture |
| Vanilla Extract | Enhances the banana and chocolate flavors |
| Butter (or Oil) | Prevents pancakes from being dry |
| Chocolate Chips | The sweet, melty surprise in every bite |
The Best Type of Chocolate Chips to Use
Different chocolate chips can change the flavor of your pancakes:
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Best for a balanced taste
- Dark chocolate chips – For a richer, less sweet pancake
- Milk chocolate chips – Extra sweet and creamy
- Mini chocolate chips – Distribute more evenly in the batter
Healthy Alternatives & Substitutes
Want to make a healthier version? Try these swaps:
- Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour
- Oat milk or almond milk instead of dairy
- Greek yogurt instead of butter for extra protein
- Dark chocolate chips for less sugar
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes
1. Preparing the Batter Like a Pro
- Mash the bananas – Use a fork to mash them until smooth (no big chunks).
- Mix dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine wet ingredients – Mix mashed bananas with eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Gently mix – Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined (do NOT overmix).
- Add chocolate chips – Stir in chocolate chips for the perfect distribution.
2. The Right Cooking Temperature & Pan Choice
- Use a non-stick pan or griddle for even cooking.
- Heat to medium-low—too hot, and pancakes will burn outside while staying raw inside.
- Lightly grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
3. How to Get Evenly Cooked Pancakes
- Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake for uniform size.
- Wait for bubbles to form on top (about 2 minutes), then flip.
- Cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and keep warm until serving.
✅ Pro Tip: Place cooked pancakes on a wire rack instead of stacking them to prevent sogginess.
Tips for Achieving Fluffy & Non-Mushy Pancakes
Common Mistakes That Make Pancakes Mushy
Mushy pancakes can ruin the perfect breakfast experience. Here’s why it happens and how to fix it:
| Mistake | Why It Happens | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Using too much banana | Excess moisture makes the batter too wet | Stick to one medium banana per 1 cup of flour |
| Overmixing the batter | Develops too much gluten, making pancakes dense | Gently fold ingredients until just combined |
| Cooking on high heat | Cooks outside too fast while inside stays raw | Use medium-low heat and be patient |
| Flipping too soon | Pancakes need time to set before flipping | Wait for bubbles to form before flipping |
How to Keep Pancakes from Being Sticky
If your pancakes stick to the pan, try these fixes:
✅ Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned cast iron skillet
✅ Lightly grease the pan with butter or oil before each batch
✅ Make sure the pan isn’t too hot—high heat burns pancakes before they cook through
The Secret to Perfect Pancake Texture
To get light, fluffy pancakes:
✔ Use buttermilk – The acidity reacts with baking powder for a better rise
✔ Let the batter rest – A 5-minute rest allows the flour to absorb liquid
✔ Don’t press pancakes down – This makes them dense instead of fluffy
Variations & Fun Twists on Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Want to put a unique spin on your banana chocolate chip pancakes? Here are some fun variations to try!
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
For those with dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy delicious, fluffy banana chocolate chip pancakes by making a few ingredient swaps:
| Diet | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Replace eggs with flaxseed or chia egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg). Use almond, soy, or oat milk instead of dairy milk. Choose dairy-free chocolate chips. |
| Gluten-Free | Use oat flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free pancake mix instead of regular flour. Add an extra ½ tsp baking powder for fluffiness. |
Adding Nuts, Cinnamon, or Peanut Butter
Enhance your pancakes with extra flavors and textures:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans – Add a nutty crunch
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg – Brings warmth and depth to the flavor
- Peanut butter or almond butter – Swirl into the batter or drizzle on top for a protein boost
Turning Your Pancakes into a Dessert
Want to turn breakfast into a sweet treat? Try these dessert-style upgrades:
✔ Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of melted chocolate
✔ Sprinkle crushed cookies (Oreos or graham crackers) for a fun twist
✔ Make a pancake stack cake by layering pancakes with Nutella or cream cheese frosting
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Banana chocolate chip pancakes are delicious on their own, but the right toppings and pairings can take them to the next level! Here’s how to serve them for the ultimate breakfast experience.
The Best Syrups and Toppings
Looking for the perfect finishing touch? Here are the best syrups and toppings to complement the banana and chocolate flavors:
| Topping | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Maple syrup | Classic, rich, and slightly smoky, balancing the sweetness of bananas and chocolate |
| Honey | A natural sweetener that enhances the fruitiness of bananas |
| Whipped cream | Light and airy, adding a creamy texture |
| Nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew) | Adds protein and a nutty contrast to the sweet flavors |
| Caramel sauce | A rich, buttery addition for an indulgent treat |
| Fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) | Adds freshness and a slight tartness to balance the chocolate |
| Shredded coconut | Gives a tropical twist to your pancakes |
| Greek yogurt | Adds creaminess with a protein boost |
What Drinks Pair Well With Banana Pancakes?
To make your meal complete, pair your pancakes with these drinks:
✔ Fresh orange juice – The citrus cuts through the sweetness
✔ Coffee or espresso – A bold contrast to the creamy, sweet flavors
✔ Milk (dairy or non-dairy) – Classic combo, especially for kids
✔ Smoothies (banana-strawberry, peanut butter-chocolate) – A fun way to add extra nutrients
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Want to enjoy your pancakes later? Here’s how to store them properly:
| Storage Method | How to Do It | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Place pancakes in an airtight container with parchment paper between them | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Lay pancakes on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag | Up to 2 months |
How to Reheat:
✅ Microwave: Heat in 15-20 second intervals until warm
✅ Oven: Bake at 300°F for 5-7 minutes
✅ Toaster: Gives pancakes a crispy edge while keeping them soft inside
The Science Behind Chocolate and Banana Flavor Combination
Ever wonder why chocolate and banana taste so amazing together? It turns out, there’s real science behind this perfect pairing!
Why Do Chocolate and Banana Taste So Good Together?
The combination of chocolate and banana works because of flavor chemistry and contrasting textures:
✔ Natural sweetness vs. bitterness – Bananas are naturally sweet, while chocolate (especially dark chocolate) has a slight bitterness. This contrast enhances both flavors.
✔ Creamy and smooth textures – Bananas have a creamy consistency that blends perfectly with melted chocolate.
✔ Shared aromatic compounds – Both bananas and chocolate contain esters and pyrazines, which give them their signature fruity and roasted notes.
How Different Chocolate Types Affect the Flavor
Not all chocolates taste the same in banana pancakes! Here’s how different types of chocolate change the overall flavor:
| Chocolate Type | Flavor Profile with Bananas | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Milk Chocolate | Extra sweet, creamy, and smooth | Kid-friendly, dessert-style pancakes |
| Dark Chocolate (70% cacao or more) | Rich, slightly bitter, and intense | A more sophisticated, deep flavor |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate | Balanced sweetness and depth | Classic banana chocolate chip pancakes |
| White Chocolate | Buttery and extra sweet | A unique, dessert-like variation |
The Role of Banana’s Natural Sweetness
Bananas get sweeter as they ripen, thanks to their high natural sugar content. The riper the banana, the smoother and sweeter your pancakes will taste.
Pro Tip: For the best banana chocolate chip pancakes, use ripe bananas with brown spots—they’re sweeter and easier to mash!
Celebrity & Royal Pancake Recipes – Kylie Jenner & Queen Elizabeth’s Styles
Banana pancakes are loved by everyone—including celebrities and royalty! Let’s take a look at how Kylie Jenner and Queen Elizabeth II make their pancakes, and how you can try their versions at home.
How to Make Kylie Jenner’s Banana Pancakes
Kylie Jenner’s banana pancakes went viral for being super simple and healthy. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana (mashed)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup oat flour (or blended oats)
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Mash the banana in a bowl.
- Add the egg, oat flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Heat a non-stick pan and lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Pour small amounts of batter onto the pan and cook on medium-low heat.
- Flip once bubbles form, cook for another 1-2 minutes, then serve warm!
✔ Why people love it: This version is gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened!
Queen Elizabeth’s Pancake Recipe vs. Banana Pancakes
Did you know that Queen Elizabeth had a famous royal pancake recipe? While it’s different from banana pancakes, you can add bananas to give it a fun twist!
Queen Elizabeth’s Pancake Recipe (Original):
- 4 cups flour
- 4 tbsp sugar
- 2 cups milk
- 3 eggs
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 3 tsp cream of tartar
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Mix all the ingredients into a smooth batter.
- Heat a pan and lightly grease it with butter.
- Cook pancakes on medium heat, flipping once bubbles form.
- Serve with jam, syrup, or lemon juice.
How to Make It a Banana Pancake:
✔ Mash 2 ripe bananas into the batter
✔ Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a modern twist
This way, you get the royal-approved texture but with the sweet, creamy taste of banana and chocolate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about banana chocolate chip pancakes!
1. How do you make Kylie Jenner’s banana pancakes?
Kylie Jenner’s banana pancakes are made with just a few simple ingredients—banana, egg, oat flour, baking powder, and vanilla. The batter is mixed and cooked on medium-low heat for fluffy, healthy pancakes.
2. Are banana pancakes healthier than regular pancakes?
Yes! Banana pancakes are generally healthier than traditional pancakes because:
✔ They use bananas for natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.
✔ Bananas add fiber, potassium, and vitamins.
✔ Many recipes use oat flour or whole wheat flour instead of refined flour.
3. Why are my banana pancakes mushy?
Mushy banana pancakes happen when:
❌ Too much banana is added—stick to 1 banana per cup of flour.
❌ The batter is overmixed, making it dense.
❌ Pancakes are flipped too soon—wait for bubbles to form before flipping!
4. Why does chocolate and banana go together?
Chocolate and banana pair well because they have complementary flavors:
✔ Bananas are naturally sweet and creamy, balancing the slight bitterness of chocolate.
✔ Both contain flavor compounds (esters and pyrazines) that enhance each other’s taste.
✔ The contrast in textures (soft banana, melty chocolate) makes them irresistible!
5. How to make Queen Elizabeth pancakes?
Queen Elizabeth’s royal pancake recipe includes flour, sugar, milk, eggs, baking soda, and butter. To turn them into banana chocolate chip pancakes, simply add mashed bananas and chocolate chips to the mix.
6. Why are my banana pancakes sticky?
Sticky pancakes can happen because:
❌ The pan isn’t properly greased—use butter or oil before each batch.
❌ The heat is too low, causing the pancakes to steam rather than brown.
❌ Too much banana was added, making the batter extra moist.
✅ To fix it: Use a non-stick pan, cook on medium-low heat, and grease the surface lightly before cooking!
Final thoughts
Banana chocolate chip pancakes are a delicious, easy-to-make treat that combines sweet, creamy bananas with rich, melty chocolate. By using the right ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavor pairings, you can make fluffy, non-mushy pancakes every time.
Tips for Perfect Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes:
✔ Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
✔ Let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking.
✔ Cook on medium-low heat and flip when bubbles form.
✔ Experiment with healthy swaps, fun add-ins, and toppings!
Now it’s time to grab your ingredients and start flipping the best banana chocolate chip pancakes ever!