Moist, light, and fluffy Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are the perfect way to start your day. They combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavor of brown sugar and a hint of vanilla. These pancakes are not only delicious but also versatile, making them suitable for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dessert. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
- For Serving
- How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients
- Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Heat the Griddle
- Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
- Step 6: Serve Warm
- How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Classic Toppings
- Fruity Additions
- Nutty Crunch
- Decadent Extras
- 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?
- How do I make my Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes healthier?
- What toppings go well with Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes?
- Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of pancakes in no time!
- Flavorful: The combination of brown sugar and ripe bananas creates a rich, sweet flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Toppings: Serve these pancakes with butter, maple syrup, sliced bananas, walnuts, or chocolate chips for added deliciousness.
- Perfect Texture: Achieve light and fluffy pancakes that are a delight to eat.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Incorporate wholesome ingredients like bananas and buttermilk for a healthier breakfast option.
Tools and Preparation
To make your pancake-making experience smooth and enjoyable, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick griddle or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick griddle or skillet: This prevents the pancakes from sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to separate wet and dry ingredients easily, simplifying the mixing process.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for gently folding ingredients without overmixing the batter.
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
For Serving
- Butter
- Maple syrup
- Sliced banana
- Walnuts
- Chocolate chips

How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
Step 4: Heat the Griddle
Preheat your griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. Grease it lightly with butter.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Drop approximately 1/3 cup portions of batter onto the griddle. Spread out slightly to form even circles. Cook until bubbles form on top (it may be hard to see), then flip carefully. Cook for an additional couple of minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes hot with toppings of your choice such as butter and syrup. Enjoy!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Serving Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you prefer a classic approach or want to add some creative flair, there are plenty of options to enhance your breakfast.
Classic Toppings
- Butter – A pat of creamy butter melts beautifully on warm pancakes, adding richness.
- Maple Syrup – Drizzling real maple syrup provides a sweet and natural flavor contrast.
Fruity Additions
- Sliced Bananas – Fresh banana slices amplify the banana flavor and add freshness.
- Berries – Strawberries or blueberries offer a tartness that complements the sweetness of the pancakes.
Nutty Crunch
- Walnuts – Chopped walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- Almonds – Sliced almonds can also be sprinkled on top for extra texture.
Decadent Extras
- Chocolate Chips – For a sweet twist, sprinkle chocolate chips on top or mix them into the batter.
- Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and indulgence to your serving.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Perfecting your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes takes just a little practice. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out fluffy and delicious every time.
- Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your pancakes will be.
- Don’t Overmix Batter – Stir the batter until just combined; lumps are okay. This keeps pancakes fluffy.
- Cook at Medium-Low Heat – Cooking at lower temperatures ensures even cooking without burning the outside.
- Grease the Griddle Properly – Use enough butter to prevent sticking but not so much that they become greasy.
- Let Batter Rest – Allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes can help create fluffier pancakes.
- Adjust Consistency if Needed – If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of buttermilk for easier pouring.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement their flavors well.
- Scrambled Eggs – Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein and balance out the sweetness of pancakes.
- Bacon Strips – Crispy bacon adds a savory touch that contrasts nicely with sweet flavors.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and healthiness to your breakfast table.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side full of texture and flavor.
- Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie bowl packed with nutrients complements pancakes perfectly while keeping it light.
- Breakfast Sausage Links – Savory sausage links provide hearty protein that pairs well with syrupy pancakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Avoid these pitfalls for the best pancakes ever.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the pancakes tough. Stir just until combined for light and fluffy results.
- Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas won’t provide the sweetness and flavor you need. Use fully ripe bananas for the best taste.
- Cooking at too high a temperature: High heat can burn the outside before the inside cooks. Keep your griddle on medium-low for even cooking.
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your cooking surface may cause sticking. Always use butter or non-stick spray to prevent this issue.
- Not letting the batter rest: Skipping this step can lead to dense pancakes. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps create a lighter texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure pancakes are completely cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place pancakes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place pancakes on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add pancakes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute eggs with applesauce or mashed banana for a similar texture.
How do I make my Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes healthier?
Try using whole wheat flour or adding oats to increase fiber content without sacrificing taste.
What toppings go well with Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes?
Popular choices include maple syrup, sliced bananas, walnuts, or even chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
While you can substitute regular sugar, brown sugar adds moisture and flavor that enhances these pancakes uniquely.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are not only moist and fluffy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon. Whether it’s breakfast or brunch, give this recipe a try for delicious results that everyone will love!
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Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings (8 pancakes) 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, the perfect breakfast choice that balances comfort and flavor. These pancakes are light, fluffy, and infused with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and rich brown sugar. With a hint of vanilla, they offer a warm embrace for your taste buds any time of day—whether it’s a cozy breakfast, leisurely brunch with friends, or even a sweet dessert. The versatile nature of this recipe allows for endless topping combinations, from classic maple syrup to decadent chocolate chips.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas (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, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined; lumps are okay.
- Preheat a non-stick griddle over medium-low heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Pour about 1/3 cup portions of batter onto the griddle. Cook until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook for an additional couple of minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Griddling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes (150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg