Moist, light, and fluffy Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are the perfect treat for breakfast or brunch. Sweetened with brown sugar and flavored with vanilla, these pancakes are a delightful way to start your day. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or simply craving a comforting breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress. With their irresistible flavor and easy preparation, you’ll want to make these pancakes again and again.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
- To Serve
- How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Step 3: Combine Mixtures
- Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
- Step 5: Serve Hot
- How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Classic Toppings
- Nutty Additions
- Sweet Treats
- How to Perfect Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Reheating Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes without eggs?
- What can I use instead of buttermilk?
- How do I store leftover Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes?
- Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Deliciously Sweet: The combination of ripe bananas and brown sugar creates a naturally sweet flavor that everyone will love.
- Customizable: Serve them with butter, maple syrup, sliced bananas, walnuts, or chocolate chips for a personalized touch.
- Fluffy Texture: The buttermilk ensures these pancakes are incredibly fluffy and light.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy them on lazy weekends, special occasions, or even as a fun breakfast-for-dinner option.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious pancake recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick griddle or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick griddle or skillet: Ensures that the pancakes cook evenly without sticking.
- Mixing bowls: Allow you to prepare dry and wet ingredients separately for better mixing.
- Rubber spatula: Helps gently fold ingredients without overmixing, keeping pancakes fluffy.

Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 small bananas)
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (plus more for greasing griddle)
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (I prefer dark brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
To Serve
- (butter, maple syrup, sliced banana, walnuts, and/or chocolate chips)
How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly mixed.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat your non-stick griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. Grease it lightly with butter. Pour approximately 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. Spread out slightly to form even circles. Cook until bubbles begin to form on top (this might be hard to see due to thick batter). Flip carefully and cook until golden brown on both sides (about another couple of minutes).
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve your pancakes hot with butter and maple syrup. Feel free to add extra toppings like sliced bananas or walnuts for added texture!
Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Serving Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes can elevate your breakfast experience. These pancakes are delightful on their own, but adding toppings can enhance their flavor and texture.
Classic Toppings
- Butter: A pat of butter melts beautifully over warm pancakes, adding richness.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup for a sweet and sticky finish.
- Sliced Bananas: Add fresh banana slices for extra banana flavor and texture.
Nutty Additions
- Chopped Walnuts: Sprinkle on top for a crunchy contrast to the fluffy pancakes.
- Almonds: Thinly sliced almonds can add a delightful nutty flavor.
Sweet Treats
- Chocolate Chips: Mix in or sprinkle on top for a sweet indulgence.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes the pancakes feel more decadent.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Achieving perfect Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out light and fluffy every time.
- Use Ripe Bananas: Choose very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense pancakes.
- Moderate Heat: Cook on medium-low heat to allow even cooking without burning.
- Rest the Batter: Letting the batter sit for about 5 minutes helps it thicken and improve texture.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy complement.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and savory contrast.
- Crispy Hash Browns: Golden hash browns offer a crunchy side that pairs well with pancakes.
- Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl can be a healthy addition to your breakfast spread.
- Cottage Cheese with Pineapple: This combination adds protein and tropical flavor, balancing the sweetness of pancakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, avoid these common mistakes.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much leads to tough pancakes. Stir just until combined for light and fluffy results.
- Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas lack sweetness and flavor. Choose ripe bananas with brown spots for the best taste.
- Incorrect heat settings: Cooking on high heat can burn the outside before the inside is done. Use medium-low heat for even cooking.
- Skipping the resting time: Not letting the batter rest can yield dense pancakes. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to enhance texture.
- Neglecting to grease properly: An ungreased griddle can cause sticking. Always use butter or oil to ensure easy flipping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure they are completely cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pancakes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual pancakes on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes on each side, adding a little butter if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes.
Can I make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana to maintain moisture and fluffiness.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I store leftover Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage as described above.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, walnuts, or other favorites into the batter for added flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or even dairy-free options. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful breakfast treat that everyone will love!
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Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, a perfect combination of sweetness and fluffiness. Made with ripe bananas and brown sugar, these pancakes are an ideal start to your day—whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast. The buttermilk gives them an incredibly light texture, while the rich flavor of vanilla ties everything together beautifully. Customize your stack with toppings like fresh banana slices, walnuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup to elevate your breakfast experience. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, you’ll be making these pancakes again and again!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 small bananas)
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, blend flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients using a rubber spatula; mix until just combined.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it. Pour about 1/3 cup of batter for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake (approximately 90g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg