Banana Bread Griddle Cakes: A Breakfast Classic Reinvented
Warm, fluffy bites that bring comfort and flavor to busy mornings.
Banana Bread Griddle Cakes: Breakfast’s Coziest Twist
If you are searching for an irresistible breakfast that blends the homey charm of banana bread with the weekend delight of pancakes, it’s time to discover banana bread griddle cakes. This unique recipe brings together the robust flavors and moist crumb of classic banana bread with the golden, crispy edges and fluffy centers characteristic of expertly griddled pancakes. Whether you’re gearing up for a casual family brunch or simply seeking to treat yourself on an ordinary morning, these griddle cakes are a simple way to elevate your breakfast routine.
Why Banana Bread Griddle Cakes?
Banana bread is beloved for its nostalgic aroma, moist crumb, and classic flavor, while pancakes win hearts for their golden, tender stacks. Griddle cakes occupy a delicious middle ground: they are quick like pancakes but evoke the richness and complexity of banana bread in every bite. This makes them perfect for moments when you have overripe bananas and crave comfort food without waiting for a loaf to bake.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings—prep and cook in less than 30 minutes.
- Flavorful: Deep banana flavor, hints of cinnamon, and a touch of nutty richness.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, ideal for casual breakfast or special occasions.
- Versatile: Serve as a stack or individually for brunch, snacks, or even dessert with creative toppings.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
The ingredients marry classic banana bread basics with pancake essentials. Here’s a breakdown:
- Bananas: Overripe is best for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Buttermilk: Lends tenderness and a subtle tang.
- All-Purpose Flour: The structural foundation for fluffiness.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramel notes.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Ensures lightness and helps the batter rise.
- Eggs: Bind the mixture and add richness.
- Unsalted Butter: For moistness and flavor.
- Cinnamon: The classic spice of banana bread.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt: Enhances and balances all other flavors.
- Optional Mix-ins: Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or mini chocolate chips for a treat.
Recipe: Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-low to medium heat for an even, golden result.
- If desired, set the oven to warm so you can keep finished cakes hot as you cook batches.
- Mash the Bananas:
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mash the overripe bananas until almost smooth. A few lumps add character.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Add eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla, and brown sugar to the bananas. Whisk well to combine.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Make the Batter:
- Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir together gently—just until combined. Avoid overmixing for tender cakes.
- Fold in nuts or chocolate if using.
- Griddle the Cakes:
- Lightly grease the hot griddle with butter or nonstick spray.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per cake onto the griddle, spacing well apart. Cook 2-3 minutes until small bubbles appear on the surface.
- Flip with a spatula and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until cakes are golden and cooked through.
- Serve Warm:
- Transfer griddle cakes to a baking sheet in the oven while you finish remaining batches.
Topping Ideas & Serving Suggestions
These versatile cakes pair beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings. Consider these ideas:
- Maple Syrup: Classic, warm, and always a hit.
- Cream Cheese or Whipped Cream: Slight tang balances the banana’s sweetness.
- Fresh Sliced Bananas: For a double banana punch.
- Walnuts, Pecans, or Toasted Coconut: Add crunch and flavor variation.
- Berries and Fruit Preserves: Blueberries, raspberries, or a quick compote brighten the dish.
- Honey or Brown Sugar Butter: Especially if serving as brunch or dessert.
- Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle over hot cakes to melt slightly, transforming breakfast into a decadent treat.
Tips for The Perfect Griddle Cakes
- Use Overripe Bananas: They mash more smoothly and provide deeper flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix: For light griddle cakes, stir the batter just until dry streaks disappear.
- Preheat the Skillet: Hot, evenly heated pan ensures golden, evenly cooked cakes every batch.
- Test Batter Consistency: The batter should be slightly thick but pourable. If too thick, add a splash more buttermilk.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If griddle cakes brown before cooking through, reduce heat slightly.
- Keep Warm in the Oven: Avoid stacking hot cakes on a plate; layer on a baking sheet in a low oven for best texture.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 210 | 2 cakes |
| Fat | 8g | |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | |
| Protein | 4g | |
| Sugar | 10g | |
| Fiber | 2g | |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Please note: Nutritional values vary based on mix-ins, toppings, and serving size.
Banana Bread Griddle Cakes vs. Classic Pancakes
| Feature | Banana Bread Griddle Cakes | Classic Pancakes |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Deep banana, cinnamon, subtle caramel | Mild, with buttery or plain base |
| Texture | Moist, fluffy, and hearty | Light, spongy, airy |
| Best Mix-ins | Pecans, walnuts, chocolate chips | Berries, chocolate chips |
| Occasion | Brunch, lazy weekends, special breakfasts | Everyday breakfast |
What others are reading
Recipe Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Omit pecans or walnuts, or use sunflower seed butter.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based milk with a splash of apple cider vinegar in place of buttermilk; use coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend and check baking powder/baking soda labels for gluten content.
- Vegan Griddle Cakes: Replace eggs with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg and use plant-based milk. Increase baking powder slightly for fluffiness.
Make Ahead, Freeze & Store
- Make Ahead: Prepare the batter (without baking powder/soda) the night before; stir in leaveners right before cooking.
- Freezing: Cool cakes completely and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Rewarm in a toaster or low oven for best texture.
Delicious Pairings and Meal Ideas
- Brunch Board: Pair with fresh fruit, yoghurt, crisp bacon, and maple syrup for a brunch spread.
- Kids’ Breakfast: Top with chocolate chips and banana slices for a breakfast treat.
- Grown-Up Gathering: Add toasted nuts, whipped mascarpone, or bourbon-infused maple syrup.
- Quick Snack: Spread with nut butter and honey for a mid-day energy boost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bananas that aren’t overripe?
A: For best flavor and sweetness, use deeply speckled or brown-skinned bananas. If you only have yellow bananas, try roasting them in the oven at 300°F for 15–20 minutes until the skins blacken—this will intensify their flavor.
Q: Can the batter be made in advance?
A: The batter can be mixed, minus the leaveners (baking powder and baking soda), and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Stir in the leaveners just before griddling for the fluffiest results.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let sit for 5 minutes before using.
Q: Can I omit the nuts or add other mix-ins?
A: Absolutely. Nuts are optional, and mix-ins like mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or blueberries can be folded in for variety.
Q: Are griddle cakes freezer-friendly?
A: Yes. Cool cakes completely before freezing in a single layer. Once frozen, stack in a freezer bag and reheat as needed.
Final Thoughts: The New Comfort Breakfast
Banana bread griddle cakes capture the magic of homemade banana bread and the convenience of pancakes, making them a must-try for breakfast lovers. From weekday treats to weekend feasts, they offer warm, satisfying flavor with a simple recipe and plenty of room for creativity. Grab those overripe bananas and let your next breakfast shine!
References
- https://www.wholenourishment.net/blog/2016/6/banana-bread-griddle-cakes
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juIy3GRDtdo
- https://heatherchristo.com/2016/03/09/banana-bread-griddle-cakes-with-caramelized-bananas-and-walnuts/
- https://www.businessinsider.com/trying-the-best-banana-bread-recipes-from-favorite-chefs
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a84237/banana-bread-griddle-cakes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11721/just-a-recipe-banana-bread/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/a84763/national-pancake-day-hooray/
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