I still remember the first time I made these Mini Banana Pancake Bites – the kitchen was filled with the warm aroma of bananas and vanilla, and within minutes, the plate was completely empty. These tiny bites of joy are one of those recipes that instantly bring smiles to everyone around the table. They are soft, fluffy, and packed with natural sweetness from ripe bananas, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a quick snack during the day.
For me, this recipe represents comfort in the simplest form. It requires only a handful of everyday ingredients, comes together in no time, and the result is always rewarding. I often make them when I want something sweet and homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. They are also a fantastic way to use up bananas that are sitting on the counter, just past their prime.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love these Mini Banana Pancake Bites because they are quick, delicious, and endlessly versatile. They are naturally sweetened with bananas, which means you can cut down on sugar and still enjoy a flavorful bite. They’re bite-sized, which makes them kid-friendly, lunchbox-friendly, and perfect for sharing. The texture is tender on the inside, slightly golden on the outside, and they pair beautifully with honey, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
These little bites are also healthier compared to traditional bakery snacks, especially when cooked in small portions without excess oil. They strike the balance between indulgence and nutrition, making them a smart option for families who want to enjoy treats that don’t feel heavy.
Versatile
Mini Banana Pancake Bites adapt to any occasion. You can serve them warm with syrup for a cozy breakfast, drizzle them with melted chocolate for dessert, or pack them into a lunchbox for a midday pick-me-up. You can also add fun twists like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, simply swap regular milk with almond milk or oat milk, and they turn out just as fluffy.
Affordable
One of the best parts of this recipe is how affordable it is. You only need basic pantry staples – flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, and milk – along with ripe bananas. There’s no need for fancy ingredients, and even with a tight budget, you can prepare a batch large enough to feed the whole family. This makes it a budget-friendly treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor or presentation.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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2 ripe bananas (mashed)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on banana sweetness)
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 large egg
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1/2 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
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1 tablespoon butter or oil (for cooking)
How to Prepare Mini Banana Pancake Bites
Preparing Mini Banana Pancake Bites is simple, fun, and perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. The recipe comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or spontaneous snack cravings. The key is to mash the bananas well and gently fold the wet and dry ingredients to keep the pancakes tender and fluffy.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
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Mash the bananas: Start by peeling the ripe bananas and placing them in a medium bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth, ensuring there are minimal lumps. The bananas should be soft and creamy, which will naturally sweeten the batter.
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Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is uniform, as this will help the batter come together smoothly.
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Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Sifting helps remove any lumps and ensures an even distribution of baking powder, which is essential for fluffiness.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mashed bananas and wet mixture. Gently fold the batter using a spatula, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the pancakes dense instead of light and airy.
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Preheat the pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil and spread it evenly to prevent sticking.
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Cook the mini pancakes: Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, pour small portions of batter onto the skillet. Space them slightly apart, as they will expand while cooking. Cook for 1–2 minutes until small bubbles form on the surface. Flip carefully and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
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Serve immediately or keep warm: Once cooked, transfer the pancake bites to a plate. You can serve them immediately or keep them warm in a low oven while cooking the remaining batches.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is incredibly quick and easy because the batter comes together in just a few minutes, and the mini size of each pancake means they cook very fast. You can have a full batch ready in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for a last-minute breakfast or snack. The small size also makes portion control simple, allowing you to serve exactly what you need.
Customizable
Mini Banana Pancake Bites are highly customizable. You can fold in mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or even add chopped nuts for texture. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour, oat flour, or adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed for added nutrition. You can also experiment with toppings: peanut butter, yogurt, honey, or fresh fruit all pair beautifully with these bite-sized pancakes.
Popular with Many People
These mini bites are a crowd-pleaser. Children love them because of the fun size and natural sweetness, while adults appreciate the light texture and versatility. They are excellent for breakfast buffets, brunch gatherings, or even as finger food for casual parties. Everyone seems to enjoy the balance of flavor, softness, and simplicity in each bite, which makes them a universally loved treat.
PrintPancake Bites: Yummy Mini Banana Pancakes for Toddlers
Mini Banana Pancake Bites are soft, fluffy, and naturally sweet, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. This recipe is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and versatile, allowing for fun variations with chocolate chips, nuts, or spices. Bite-sized and kid-friendly, they are a favorite for families and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 25 1x
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Peel and mash the bananas in a medium bowl until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until uniform.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana and wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, pour small portions of batter onto the skillet, leaving space between each.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes until small bubbles form on the surface, then carefully flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer cooked pancake bites to a plate and repeat with remaining batter.
- Serve warm, or keep in a low oven until ready to serve.
Notes
Overripe bananas enhance sweetness and flavor.
Customize with chocolate chips, cinnamon, or chopped nuts.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerated for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 2 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Make sure to give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken slightly.
Q: Can I freeze the mini pancakes?
A: Absolutely. Allow the cooked pancake bites to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster, oven, or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still be soft and delicious.
Q: Can I use overripe bananas?
A: Overripe bananas are actually perfect for this recipe because they are sweeter and mash more easily, giving the pancake bites a richer flavor.
Q: Can I make them vegan?
A: Yes. Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds + 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk. Cook using oil instead of butter.
Q: How do I prevent the mini pancakes from sticking?
A: Make sure your skillet is well-preheated and lightly greased with butter or oil. Flip carefully with a thin spatula once small bubbles appear on the surface.
Q: How long do they stay fresh?
A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.