These caramelised banana pancakes are a delightful treat, featuring warm, fluffy pancakes topped with sweet, golden-brown caramelized bananas. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert, they are easy to prepare and sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas
• 100g self-raising flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 egg
• 150ml milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
• 50g brown sugar
• A pinch of salt

Directions

1. Slice the bananas into rounds.
2. In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat, add the sliced bananas, and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with a bit of butter.
7. Pour small dollops of batter into the skillet, cooking the pancakes for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
8. Stack the pancakes on plates, then top with the caramelised bananas and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approx. 300-350 per serving (based on 2 pancakes with banana topping)
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 25g

The Perfect Pancake Texture

Achieving the perfect pancake texture is key to a delicious breakfast. The pancake batter should be thick but pourable. It’s important to not overmix the batter, as this can result in tough pancakes. Lumpy batter is actually better since it helps create a fluffier texture, so it’s best to mix just until combined. The self-raising flour and baking powder work together to provide lift and softness.

Selecting the Right Bananas

Bananas are the star of this dish, so choosing the right bananas is crucial. Opt for ripe but not overripe bananas, as they provide the ideal balance of sweetness and firmness. Overripe bananas, while sweeter, can become too mushy during caramelization, making it harder to get that lovely golden color.

Caramelizing the Bananas

Caramelizing bananas is a simple process, but it requires a watchful eye. The key is to use medium heat and allow the sugar in the bananas to slowly brown without burning. Brown sugar works particularly well in caramelization as it gives the bananas a deeper, richer flavor. When done right, the caramelized bananas will have a beautiful, glossy sheen that adds both texture and flavor to your pancakes.

Choosing the Right Pan for Pancakes

The right pan can make or break your pancakes. A non-stick skillet is ideal as it helps prevent sticking and ensures that your pancakes cook evenly. Additionally, a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet works wonders for achieving that perfect golden brown color. Make sure to preheat your pan before adding the batter to avoid uneven cooking.

The Secret to Even Cooking

Even cooking is essential for pancakes. To achieve this, always cook your pancakes over medium heat. If the heat is too high, the pancakes will burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. A moderate heat allows the batter to cook through, giving you the light, fluffy pancakes you crave.

Using Butter for Cooking

Butter not only adds flavor but also helps in achieving a nice, golden exterior on your pancakes. When melting the butter, be sure to not let it brown or burn before adding the pancake batter. If you want to avoid excess grease, you can wipe off any excess butter with a paper towel after greasing the pan.

Flavor Enhancements

Although this recipe is fantastic as is, there are various ways to enhance the flavor. You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pancake batter for a warm, spicy kick. For those who prefer a tropical twist, coconut milk can be used instead of regular milk, infusing the pancakes with a light, fragrant coconut flavor.

Serving Suggestions

While caramelized bananas are the star of the show, these pancakes can be served with a variety of toppings. A drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can elevate the dish further. Fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add freshness and balance the sweetness of the bananas.

The Importance of Freshness

Freshness plays a significant role in how the pancakes taste. Using fresh milk and eggs will enhance the overall flavor and texture. If you want to take it a step further, you can use freshly ground flour for even better results. Fresh ingredients not only improve the taste but also provide a more enjoyable eating experience.

How to Make Pancakes Ahead of Time

Pancakes can be made in advance and stored for later use. Simply cook the pancakes as per the recipe, allow them to cool, and then store them in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in the microwave or heat them up in a pan for a few seconds on each side. Although freshly made pancakes are the best, reheated pancakes can still be quite tasty when paired with freshly caramelized bananas.

Ideal Pancake Thickness

The thickness of the pancake is important when it comes to texture. A thick pancake will be fluffier and more satisfying, but it must also cook properly all the way through. If you prefer thinner pancakes, you can add a little more milk to the batter to achieve a smoother, runnier consistency.

The Role of Baking Powder

Baking powder is essential in making the pancakes rise and become fluffy. It creates bubbles within the batter, helping it expand as it cooks. The baking powder also ensures that the pancakes are light and airy, rather than dense and heavy. Always check the expiration date on your baking powder to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Tips for Flipping Pancakes

Flipping pancakes can be tricky, but there’s a simple trick to make it easier. Wait until bubbles start forming on the surface of the pancake before flipping it. This ensures that the batter is set enough to hold its shape. Use a wide spatula to lift the pancake gently, and flip with a quick, confident motion to avoid breaking it.

Serving Pancakes for Special Occasions

These caramelized banana pancakes make a fantastic dish for special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday breakfast, an anniversary brunch, or a cozy family gathering, this dish can bring a sense of occasion to any morning. For extra flair, consider dusting the pancakes with powdered sugar or arranging the bananas in a creative pattern.

Making the Pancakes Healthier

For a healthier version of this recipe, you can make some simple swaps. Use whole wheat flour instead of self-raising flour to add fiber. You can also substitute the butter with coconut oil or use less sugar when caramelizing the bananas. These changes will make the pancakes slightly lighter without sacrificing too much flavor.

Perfect Pancakes for Beginners

If you’re new to cooking pancakes, this recipe is a great starting point. The process is simple and doesn’t require too many ingredients, making it easy to follow. The key is to not rush the cooking process. Take your time with the caramelization of the bananas, and remember that perfect pancakes come with practice.

Pairing Pancakes with Drinks

To complement the sweetness of the pancakes, consider pairing them with a hot drink. Freshly brewed coffee or a rich cup of hot chocolate goes wonderfully with the warm, caramelized bananas. If you prefer something lighter, a cup of green tea can offer a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dish.

Freezing Pancakes for Later

If you want to make pancakes in bulk for a future meal, freezing them is an excellent option. Stack the pancakes with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply heat them in a toaster or oven, and top them with fresh caramelized bananas for a quick and tasty meal.

Elevating the Dish with Sauces

Adding a sauce can take your caramelized banana pancakes to the next level. A warm chocolate sauce or a rich butterscotch sauce can complement the flavors of the bananas. For a lighter option, you could drizzle a little honey or agave syrup over the top for extra sweetness.

Cultural Influence on Pancakes

Pancakes are enjoyed worldwide, with each culture putting its own spin on the dish. In the U.S., pancakes are a traditional breakfast item, often served with maple syrup and butter. In France, crêpes are a thin variation that can be filled with both sweet and savory fillings. This recipe combines the American pancake style with the French concept of sweet fruit toppings, creating a perfect fusion.

The History of Pancakes

Pancakes have a long history and have been a part of many cultures for centuries. In ancient times, pancakes were made with simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and water, and cooked on flat stones. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with modern versions including leavening agents and a variety of flavorings, such as the caramelized bananas in this dish.

Conclusion

Caramelized banana pancakes are a perfect combination of sweetness, fluffiness, and warmth, making them an ideal dish for any occasion. The process of caramelizing the bananas brings out their natural sweetness, creating a rich topping that enhances the pancakes’ flavor and texture. Whether enjoyed as a weekend breakfast or served as a special treat, this dish offers a versatile and delicious way to satisfy your sweet cravings. By mastering the techniques of pancake making and caramelization, you can easily recreate this delightful recipe at home. With the flexibility to customize the pancakes with different toppings or variations, it’s a recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes and preferences, ensuring a satisfying experience for everyone.