Moist, light, and fluffy, Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are a delightful way to start your day. These pancakes are sweetened with brown sugar and infused with vanilla, making them perfect for cozy breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself on a lazy Sunday morning, these pancakes will surely impress. Enjoy them warm with butter and syrup, topped with your choice of fruit or nuts for an extra touch!

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 (Optional):
- How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
- Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Classic Toppings
- Nutty Additions
- Decadent Treats
- 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 use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
- How do I make these pancakes gluten-free?
- What toppings go well with these pancakes?
- Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Deliciously Sweet: The brown sugar adds a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with ripe bananas.
- Fluffy Texture: With a few simple tips, you’ll achieve the lightest pancakes ever.
- Customizable Toppings: Enjoy these pancakes with maple syrup, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make your pancake-making experience even smoother, gather essential tools before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Griddle or skillet
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your dry and wet ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter, ensuring it turns out light and fluffy.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for gently folding ingredients together without overmixing.
- Griddle or skillet: Provides an even cooking surface for perfectly browned pancakes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 small bananas)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing)
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Serving (Optional):
- Butter
- Maple syrup
- Sliced bananas
- Walnuts
- Chocolate chips

How to Make Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the mashed banana, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mix and stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes fluffy.
Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-low heat. Grease it lightly with butter. Pour ⅓ cup portions of batter onto the griddle. Spread slightly to form even circles. Cook until bubbles form on the surface—this may take a moment due to the thickness of the batter. Flip each pancake carefully and cook for another couple of minutes until fully cooked through. Ensure not to use high heat to guarantee even cooking.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your pancakes warm with butter and maple syrup. You can add optional toppings like sliced bananas, walnuts, or chocolate chips based on your preference!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Serving Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes can be as delightful as making them. You can elevate your breakfast experience by adding various toppings and sides that complement their sweet, banana-y flavor.
Classic Toppings
- Butter – A pat of softened butter melts beautifully on warm pancakes, enhancing their flavor.
- Maple Syrup – Drizzle pure maple syrup for a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with bananas.
- Sliced Bananas – Adding fresh banana slices on top brings out the pancake’s natural flavor and adds texture.
Nutty Additions
- Walnuts – Chopped walnuts add a crunchy texture and a nutty taste that balances the sweetness.
- Pecans – Similar to walnuts but with a slightly sweeter flavor, pecans make a great topping choice.
Decadent Treats
- Chocolate Chips – Sprinkle some chocolate chips on top for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Whipped Cream – Light and airy whipped cream can make these pancakes feel even more indulgent.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
To achieve the ultimate fluffy and flavorful Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, follow these simple tips.
- Use ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your pancakes will be.
- Don’t overmix – Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the pancakes light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
- Let batter rest – Allowing the batter to sit for 5-10 minutes before cooking helps create fluffier pancakes.
- Preheat your pan properly – Make sure your skillet is at medium-low heat before pouring in the batter for even cooking.
- Use fresh baking powder – Check your baking powder’s expiration date; fresh baking powder ensures maximum fluffiness.
- Adjust thickness with buttermilk – If your batter seems too thick, you can add a splash of buttermilk for better consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes can enhance your breakfast spread. Here are some great options:
- Bacon – Crispy bacon adds a savory contrast to the sweet pancakes, making every bite delicious.
- Sausage Links – Juicy sausage links provide a hearty addition that complements the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the pancakes.
- Greek Yogurt – A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt can cut through the sweetness and adds creaminess.
- Cottage Cheese – High in protein, cottage cheese offers a mild flavor that pairs well with fruit toppings.
- Smoothies – A refreshing smoothie made with spinach or berries can lighten up the meal while providing nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough pancakes. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
- Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas lack the sweetness needed. Always use ripe, spotty bananas for the best flavor.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make pancakes dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
- Cooking on high heat: This may burn the pancakes outside while leaving them raw inside. Cook on medium-low heat for even cooking.
- Skipping toppings: Toppings enhance flavor and texture. Don’t skip butter or syrup; they elevate your pancake experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between pancakes if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Wrap individual pancakes in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat pancakes on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a pancake on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and warm each pancake for 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute regular sugar, but brown sugar adds moisture and a richer flavor.
How do I make these pancakes gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
What toppings go well with these pancakes?
You can top your pancakes with butter, maple syrup, sliced bananas, nuts, or even chocolate chips for added indulgence.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, they provide a comforting start to your day. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or add-ins!
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Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings (6 pancakes) 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Brown Sugar Banana Pancakes, where each bite offers a sweet, comforting flavor. These pancakes are exceptionally moist and fluffy, thanks to the combination of ripe bananas and brown sugar. Infused with a hint of vanilla, they make for a perfect breakfast or brunch option that can elevate any occasion. Serve them warm with butter and pure maple syrup, and don’t forget the toppings! Whether you prefer fresh fruit, crunchy nuts, or rich chocolate chips, these pancakes can be tailored to your taste. Quick and easy to whip up, they are an ideal choice for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Enjoy the warmth of homemade pancakes that promise to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 small bananas)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the mashed banana, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, brown sugar, and vanilla until combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined—do not overmix.
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Pour about ⅓ cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake; spread slightly into even circles.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg