There’s something wonderfully comforting about waking up to the subtle sweetness of ripe bananas mingling with the wholesome heartiness of oats. My go-to Banana Oat Pancakes have become a staple for those mornings when I want a breakfast that’s both nourishing and downright delicious—without any fuss. These pancakes come together quickly, require just a handful of simple ingredients, and are perfect whether you’re fueling a busy workday or treating yourself to a leisurely weekend brunch. Plus, they’re so versatile—you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a handful of berries, or even a drizzle of maple syrup to personalize every stack. If you’ve been searching for a way to break free from boring breakfasts or tired of fast food, this recipe will feel like a breath of fresh air on your plate.
Why Choose Banana Oat Pancakes?
Simplicity at its core: made with just bananas, oats, and a few staples, these pancakes come together effortlessly. Nourishing and wholesome: packed with fiber and natural sweetness, they fuel your day the right way. Customizable delight: add cinnamon, nuts, or berries to suit your mood. Perfect for any morning: whether rushed or relaxed, they satisfy comfort cravings without fast food guilt. Crowd-pleaser: soft, fluffy, and flavorful—everyone will want seconds!
Banana Oat Pancakes Ingredients
For the Pancakes
- Ripe Bananas – use well-mashed bananas for natural sweetness and moisture in every bite.
- Rolled Oats – ground or whole, oats provide hearty texture and fiber to keep you full longer.
- Eggs – act as a binder for the batter, making the pancakes fluffy and hold together well.
- Baking Powder – a small pinch gives the pancakes a light, airy rise.
- Milk (dairy or plant-based) – adds moisture; adjust the amount to get your preferred batter consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – a splash enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas without overpowering them.
- Salt – just a pinch to balance and brighten the flavors in your Banana Oat Pancakes.
Optional Flavor Boosters
- Ground Cinnamon – a warm spice that pairs beautifully with banana’s sweetness.
- Chopped Nuts – walnuts or pecans add a satisfying crunch and extra nutrients.
- Fresh Berries – scatter into the batter or on top for a fresh, tangy burst that complements the oats.
- Maple Syrup or Honey – drizzle on top for an indulgent finish that’s pure comfort.
How to Make Banana Oat Pancakes
- Preheat Your Skillet: Warm a nonstick pan or griddle over medium heat for about 3 minutes until hot, then lightly grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking and achieve golden bottoms.
- Blend the Batter: In a blender, combine ripe bananas, rolled oats, eggs, baking powder, milk, vanilla, and salt. Blend until smooth, about 20 seconds, for a silky, lump-free pancake batter.
- Let It Rest: Transfer the batter to a bowl and let it sit for 2–3 minutes. This resting time allows the oats to soften and thicken, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
- Scoop & Cook: Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake onto the preheated skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on medium heat until bubbles appear on the edges and the bottom turns golden brown.
- Flip with Care: Gently flip each pancake using a spatula and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the other side is lightly golden and the pancakes are cooked through.
- Serve & Enjoy: Stack your warm pancakes on a plate, add toppings like fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup, and savor every comforting bite.
Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on the batter before cooking for extra warmth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Oat Pancakes
Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Wrap pancakes individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm pancakes in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until heated through. For a crispier texture, toast them lightly on a skillet.
Batch Cooking: These Banana Oat Pancakes are perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and freeze for quick breakfast options throughout the week!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Oat Pancakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the pancake batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time during busy mornings but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can cook a larger batch and keep the pancakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, simply reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep them moist. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious, homemade pancakes ready with minimal effort whenever you crave them!
Expert Tips for Banana Oat Pancakes
- Ripen Bananas Fully: Use bananas with plenty of brown spots; underripe bananas make the batter less sweet and the pancakes less flavorful.
- Blend for Smoothness: Blend the oats thoroughly to avoid gritty texture and ensure the pancake batter is silky and uniform.
- Don’t Skip Resting: Letting the batter rest thickens it and gives the oats time to absorb moisture, making the pancakes fluffier and tender.
- Use Medium Heat: Cook pancakes on medium heat to get golden crusts without burning, ensuring the inside cooks through perfectly.
- Gentle Flipping: Flip pancakes carefully after bubbles form at the edges to avoid tearing and keep them fluffy and intact.
- Customize Thoughtfully: Add cinnamon or nuts to the batter, not just on top, to infuse every bite—just avoid overloading, which can disrupt texture.
What to Serve with Banana Oat Pancakes?
Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the wholesome charm of these pancakes.
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Fresh Fruit Medley: A mix of berries and sliced bananas adds vibrant color and brightens the plate, enhancing the pancakes’ natural sweetness.
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Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, a dollop of Greek yogurt provides a refreshing contrast while adding protein to your morning meal.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic choice that complements the pancakes’ flavor; the warm syrup seeps into the fluffy layers for perfect sweetness.
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Scrambled Eggs: For a savory touch, soft scrambled eggs add a rich, protein-packed counterpoint to the sweetness, rounding out your breakfast.
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Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans bring satisfying crunch and depth, balancing the fluffy texture of the pancakes with a nutty richness.
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Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon offer a warm, spiced flavor that pairs wonderfully with the banana oats.
For drinks, consider a warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee to cozy up your breakfast. Each element enhances the delightful comfort of these pancakes!
Banana Oat Pancake Variations
Feel free to get creative with your pancake experience—each twist can elevate your breakfast to new heights!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond milk or oat milk for a creamy yet lactose-free option. You’ll love the slight nutty flavor!
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Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make these pancakes accessible for all. The texture remains delightful and fluffy!
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Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of crushed walnuts or almonds to the batter for added texture and healthy fats. The extra crunch creates a fun contrast with the softness of the pancakes.
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Berry Bliss: Fold in fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries right before scooping onto the skillet for bursts of fruity freshness. Topped with a dollop of yogurt, they become a colorful breakfast treat!
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Chocolate Delight: Sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet twist that is sure to please kids and adults alike. Who doesn’t love a bit of chocolate for breakfast?
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Spiced Variation: Toss in a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for a warm spice kick that pairs beautifully with the bananas. You’ll instantly feel the cozy vibes!
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Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder to the batter for an extra nutritional kick. It’s a great way to energize your morning routine while keeping it delicious.
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Savory Option: Swap the sweet ingredients for shredded zucchini and a pinch of cheese for a unique savory pancake version. Perfect topped with avocado or a poached egg!
Banana Oat Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How ripe should the bananas be for the best flavor and texture?
For the sweetest, most flavorful Banana Oat Pancakes, use bananas that are very ripe — ideally with dark spots all over the peel. These bananas are softer, sweeter, and blend smoothly into the batter, giving your pancakes natural sweetness without needing extra sugar.
Can I store leftover Banana Oat Pancakes in the refrigerator? How long will they stay fresh?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just reheat gently in a microwave or lightly toast them in a skillet to bring back their fluffy texture.
What’s the best way to freeze Banana Oat Pancakes so they keep their taste and texture?
Freezing is a game-changer for quick breakfasts! Let the pancakes cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped pancakes in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in a toaster or skillet for a crispy, fresh-made feel.
My pancakes sometimes turn out dense or gummy — how can I fix that?
This is a common hurdle! Make sure to blend the oats thoroughly so the batter is smooth, and don’t skip the 2–3 minute resting step before cooking, which allows the oats to absorb moisture and the batter to thicken. Also, cook on medium heat and flip only once bubbles form on the edges. These tricks help make your Banana Oat Pancakes tender, fluffy, and perfectly cooked.
Are Banana Oat Pancakes safe for pets or people with allergies?
While this recipe is wholesome for humans, avoid sharing with pets, especially dogs, because bananas and oats in large amounts might not suit their digestion. For those with egg allergies, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) as a vegan binder alternative. Always double-check ingredients for personal allergies before serving!

Easy Banana Oat Pancakes That Bring Comfort to Your Morning
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a nonstick pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes and lightly grease it.
- In a blender, combine ripe bananas, rolled oats, eggs, baking powder, milk, vanilla, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Transfer the batter to a bowl and let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles appear on the edges.
- Gently flip each pancake and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Serve warm with toppings like berries, nuts, or syrup.