Moist, light, and fluffy Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are a delightful breakfast treat that everyone can enjoy. Sweetened with brown sugar and infused with rich vanilla flavor, these pancakes are perfect for cozy mornings, brunch gatherings, or even a special occasion. Their irresistible combination of taste and texture makes them the best banana pancakes EVER!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have delicious pancakes in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The use of brown sugar adds depth and sweetness that elevates these pancakes above ordinary ones.
- Versatile Toppings: Top with butter, maple syrup, sliced bananas, walnuts, or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, freeze them, and reheat for a fast breakfast option later.
- Healthy Twist: Using ripe bananas not only sweetens the pancakes but also adds nutrients for a healthier start to your day.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start whipping up these delicious Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick griddle or large skillet
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick griddle or large skillet: Ensures pancakes cook evenly without sticking.
- Whisk: Helps combine wet ingredients smoothly for better batter consistency.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for gently folding ingredients together without overmixing.
Ingredients
To create these delightful Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, gather the following 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, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of dry ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Mix Batter
Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Gently stir with a rubber spatula until combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are some lumps.
Step 4: Heat the Griddle
Preheat your griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. Grease it lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook Pancakes
Drop approximately 1/3 cup portions of batter onto the heated surface. Spread slightly to form even circles. Cook until bubbles form on top before flipping.
Step 6: Flip & Finish Cooking
Carefully flip each pancake and cook for another couple of minutes until golden brown on both sides. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve your warm Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes immediately with butter and maple syrup or your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your homemade pancakes!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Serving Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes is an opportunity to enhance their already delightful flavor. You can elevate your pancake experience by adding various toppings and sides that complement the sweetness of the brown sugar and bananas.
Classic Toppings
- Butter: A dollop of melted butter on top adds richness and flavor, making each bite heavenly.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the pancakes for a delicious contrast.
Fruity Additions
- Sliced Bananas: Fresh banana slices on top provide extra flavor and texture.
- Berries: Strawberries or blueberries can add a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with the pancakes.
- Almonds: Sliced almonds can also be sprinkled for added crunch and healthy fats.
Decadent Extras
- Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, sprinkle chocolate chips on top or mix them into the batter before cooking.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can make your pancakes feel extra special for any occasion.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Making perfect Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes involves a few simple tips to ensure they turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter they will be, enhancing the flavor of your pancakes.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements prevent overly thick or thin batter, which affects pancake texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
- Control Heat: Cook on medium-low heat to ensure even cooking without burning the outside.
- Let Batter Rest: Allowing the batter to sit for a few minutes helps create fluffier pancakes by letting bubbles form.
- Grease Griddle Properly: Use enough butter on your griddle to prevent sticking but avoid excess oil that could fry rather than cook.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes can create a well-rounded breakfast experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Bacon: Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast to sweet pancakes, creating a perfect balance.
- Greek Yogurt: A side of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making your meal more filling.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers bright flavors and textures that complement the pancakes beautifully.
- Eggs: Scrambled or poached eggs add protein and make for a hearty breakfast option.
- Cottage Cheese: This creamy side can add protein while also being mildly flavored to not overpower the pancakes.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch alongside sweet pancakes for texture variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes truly exceptional. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough pancakes. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
- Using unripe bananas – Unripe bananas lack the sweetness needed. Always use ripe or overripe bananas for better flavor.
- Skipping the resting time – Not letting the batter rest can yield dense pancakes. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before cooking to improve texture.
- Cooking at too high heat – High heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Use medium-low heat for even cooking.
- Not greasing the griddle properly – Failing to grease can cause sticking. Make sure to lightly grease your griddle or skillet before cooking.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- For longer storage, freeze pancakes in layers separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pancakes on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place pancakes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add a little butter. Warm pancakes on each side for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with almond milk or any non-dairy milk of your choice.
What toppings go well with Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes?
You can serve them with butter, maple syrup, sliced bananas, walnuts, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
How do I store leftover Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour, but this may alter the texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. You can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try and enjoy fluffy pancakes that everyone will love!

Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Indulge in the ultimate breakfast delight with Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes! These moist, light, and fluffy pancakes are sweetened with rich brown sugar and infused with vanilla, making them a perfect choice for cozy mornings or special occasions. With their irresistible flavor and texture, these pancakes will quickly become your go-to recipe. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast in no time. Top them off with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh bananas, or even chocolate chips for a delightful twist. Serve them for brunch gatherings or as a quick weekday breakfast that everyone will love!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 pancakes (serves about 4 people) 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup mashed ripe banana (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, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine mashed banana, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined (lumps are okay).
- Preheat skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Pour approximately 1/3 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on top; flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness. Don’t overmix the batter; it’s fine if there are lumps. Allow batter to rest for a few minutes to enhance fluffiness.