Ingredients:
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ cup toasted wheat germ
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup reduced-fat buttermilk
• 1 overripe banana, mashed (for easier mashing and extra sweetness)
• ¼ cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips
• Vegetable oil cooking spray
Substitution:
• If buttermilk is unavailable, you can make your own by adding 1 teaspoon of unflavored vinegar to a cup of low-fat or non-fat milk. Stir gently to mix.
Directions:
1. Preparation:
• Wash your hands thoroughly.
• In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, wheat germ, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and mashed banana.
2. Mix ingredients:
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined.
• Fold in the chocolate chips.
3. Cook the pancakes:
• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and spray with vegetable oil cooking spray.
• Test if the skillet is ready by sprinkling a few droplets of water on it; if the water sizzles, the skillet is preheated.
• For each pancake, pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet. Cook until bubbles appear in the center, then flip and cook until both sides are golden brown.
Cooking Note:
• Use an overripe banana for easier mashing and added natural sweetness.
Food Trivia:
• Pancakes are one of the oldest forms of bread across cultures. Thickness and flavor vary widely—Americans typically enjoy thicker pancakes, while the French prefer thinner crépes.
Nutrition Nugget:
• Chocolate is rich in phytochemicals that help boost serotonin levels in the body. Choose semisweet chocolate for fewer additives like milk fat and sugar.
Nutrition Information Per Serving (3 small pancakes):
• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
FAQs
1. What are banana chocolate chip pancakes?
Banana chocolate chip pancakes are fluffy breakfast treats made with mashed bananas mixed into pancake batter and studded with chocolate chips for sweetness and flavor.
2. Are banana chocolate chip pancakes healthy?
Yes, when made with whole-grain or oat flour and minimal added sugar, these pancakes can be a balanced breakfast option with fiber from bananas and slow-energy carbohydrates.
3. Can these pancakes help with digestion?
Absolutely! Bananas are rich in dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and regularity, helping you feel full and satisfied longer.
4. Can I make them gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, for gluten-free pancakes, use certified gluten-free flour or oat flour. For vegan, swap the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and vegan chocolate chips.
5. Are these pancakes good for kids?
Yes! They’re soft, naturally sweet, and kid-friendly especially when you use mini chocolate chips and mild spices like cinnamon.
6. How long does it take to make banana chocolate chip pancakes?
Most banana pancake recipes take about 15–25 minutes from start to finish quick enough for weekday breakfasts or relaxed weekend brunches.
7. What toppings go well with these pancakes?
Popular toppings include fresh banana slices, maple syrup, peanut or almond butter, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of extra mini chocolate chips.
8. Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, you can mix the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day to save time in the morning.
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