5-Ingredient Banana Egg Pancakes: Quick, Healthy & Delicious Breakfast

Fluffy, nutrient-packed stacks that make healthy mornings feel like a treat.

By Medha deb
Created on

5-Ingredient Banana Egg Pancakes

If you’re searching for a breakfast that’s healthy, naturally sweet, gluten-free, and incredibly quick to prepare, these 5-ingredient banana egg pancakes are your perfect solution. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, you can have a stack of fluffy, nutritious pancakes on the table in just 15 minutes. Ideal for busy mornings, these pancakes deliver both flavor and nourishment without hassle.

Why You’ll Love These Pancakes

  • Quick & Easy: Just 15 minutes from start to finish.
  • Naturally Sweet: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness—no refined sugar needed.
  • Gluten-Free: No wheat or processed flours.
  • Protein & Fiber-Rich: Perfect for fueling your morning.
  • Minimal Ingredients: Only five basic items required.

Ingredients

This pancake recipe features just five easy-to-find ingredients:

  • Ripe Bananas: The base of the recipe—provides natural sweetness and moisture.
  • Eggs: Add structure, protein, and help create fluffiness.
  • Baking Powder: Ensures the pancakes turn out light and airy.
  • Cinnamon: Provides warmth and depth of flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the taste and aroma.

Optional Add-Ins

  • Oats or Almond Meal: For a thicker, heartier texture.
  • Pinch of Salt: To enhance flavors.
  • Maple Syrup or Honey: For serving, should you prefer a sweeter stack.
  • Fresh Fruit or Nut Butter: For extra nutrition and flavor variety.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your pancakes:

  1. Mash the Bananas: In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly mash your ripe bananas until smooth without lumps.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Crack in the eggs and whisk into the bananas until well combined.
  3. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Add baking powder, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir to incorporate. (If using oats or almond meal, add them now.)
  4. Preheat & Grease Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with coconut oil, butter, or a neutral cooking spray.
  5. Scoop & Cook: Using a 1/4 cup or heaping tablespoon, scoop the batter onto the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Flip With Care: Because the batter is delicate, flip carefully using a thin spatula. If the pancakes break, gently nudge them back together in the pan—they will still taste amazing.
  7. Serve: Plate the pancakes and enjoy warm, topped as desired with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or nut butter.

Recipe Tips for Success

  • Choose Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and easier to mash it will be.
  • Keep Pancakes Small: Smaller pancakes are easier to flip and less likely to break apart.
  • Use a Nonstick Pan: This batter can be sticky—using a good-quality nonstick skillet and a bit of oil helps prevent sticking.
  • Let Them Set: Allow pancakes to set in the pan before flipping to keep them intact.

Batch Cooking & Storing

  • These pancakes stay fluffy for hours, making them excellent for meal prep.
  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the toaster, microwave, or a pan over low heat.
  • You can even freeze cooked pancakes: layer with parchment paper and freeze for up to a month, reheating as needed.

Nutrition Overview

Compared to traditional pancakes, this recipe is:

  • Low in refined carbohydrates
  • Rich in dietary fiber (from bananas)
  • High in protein (from eggs)
  • Free from dairy and gluten
  • Lower in calories and sugar

Here’s a general comparison table for a single serving (about 2 pancakes):

Banana Egg PancakesTraditional Pancakes
Calories100–120180–220
Protein5–6g3–4g
Fiber2–3g0.5–1g
Added Sugar0g4–8g
Gluten-FreeYesNo (unless gluten-free flour used)

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes are delicious on their own, but here’s how you can elevate your breakfast:

  • Fresh Fruit: Top with berries, banana slices, or diced apples.
  • Yogurt: Add a dollop of Greek or coconut yogurt for creaminess.
  • Nut Butter: Drizzle with almond, peanut, or cashew butter for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Maple Syrup: For those who love a touch of sweetness.
  • Granola or Chopped Nuts: Add crunch and an extra dose of protein and healthy fats.

Variations

  • Chocolate Chip Banana Pancakes: Fold in a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips before cooking for a sweet twist.
  • Berry Burst: Add fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries to the batter.
  • Nutty Crunch: Stir in finely chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
  • Spiced Up: Try a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom along with the cinnamon.
  • Savory Option: Omit cinnamon and vanilla, add a pinch of salt and some fresh herbs or thinly sliced vegetables for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these pancakes vegan?

Because eggs play a structural and binding role in this recipe, a direct vegan substitute is challenging. If you’d like to try, experiment with a combination of mashed banana and flaxseed ‘eggs’, but note that the results will be denser and less fluffy.

What if I don’t have baking powder?

You can try leaving it out, but the pancakes may be less fluffy; a pinch of baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar can be a substitute in a pinch.

How do I prevent the pancakes from falling apart?

Keep pancakes small, use a nonstick pan, and be gentle when flipping. Let them cook undisturbed until well-set on one side before turning.

Can I use other sweeteners?

This recipe relies on the banana for natural sweetness, but if you prefer a sweeter pancake, you can stir in a small amount of maple syrup or honey to the batter, or simply serve with sweet toppings.

Are these pancakes kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Most kids adore the natural sweetness and soft texture. They’re also a sneaky way to add nutrition to breakfast.

Related Recipes and Inspiration

  • Blender Banana Pancakes (Gluten-Free): For an even quicker prep, blend everything for ultra-smooth batter.
  • 3-Ingredient Vegan Pancakes: Try a super-simple vegan variation for plant-based eaters.
  • Oatmeal Pancakes: For those wanting extra fiber and a heartier texture.

Expert Tips & Final Thoughts

  • If you have leftover pancakes, let them cool before storing in a sealed container.
  • Mix the batter just until combined; over-mixing can make them tough.
  • For extra fluff, let the batter rest for 3–5 minutes before cooking.
  • Have fun experimenting with toppings and add-ins to personalize your pancakes!

Whether you’re after a nourishing weekday breakfast or a quick weekend brunch, these 5-ingredient banana egg pancakes offer a wholesome, satisfying, and endlessly customizable start to your day. Enjoy crafting your own perfect stack—minimal effort, maximum flavor!

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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