banana cinnamon pancakes

Published on November 07, 2025
4.8 (245 reviews)

There’s something magical about the way a ripe banana melds with a pinch of cinnamon, turning an ordinary pancake breakfast into a comforting, aromatic experience. This recipe captures that balance in

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banana cinnamon pancakes
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
15 min
Servings
4

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✓ Quick Morning Boost: The natural sweetness of ripe bananas eliminates added sugar, while cinnamon adds a warm, comforting aroma that awakens the senses.
✓ Fluffy Yet Hearty: A simple batter creates pancakes that are airy inside, with a tender crumb that holds the banana‑cinnamon flavor perfectly.
✓ Family‑Friendly Flexibility: Easily adaptable for gluten‑free, dairy‑free, or protein‑boosted versions, making it a crowd‑pleaser for every diet.

There’s something magical about the way a ripe banana melds with a pinch of cinnamon, turning an ordinary pancake breakfast into a comforting, aromatic experience. This recipe captures that balance in just a few minutes, delivering fluffy, golden discs that are sweet enough without extra sugar. Perfect for lazy weekend brunches or quick weekday mornings, these pancakes provide a warm, satisfying start that keeps you smiling all day long.

2 tsp baking powder Ensures fluffy rise.
½ tsp ground cinnamon Freshly ground for best aroma.
1 large ripe banana, mashed Provides natural sweetness.
1 cup milk (dairy or plant‑based) Adjust thickness as needed.
2 tbsp melted butter or oil Adds richness; can use coconut oil.
¼ tsp salt Balances sweetness.
Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts Adds crunch and omega‑3.

Instructions

banana cinnamon pancakes
1

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl whisk together whole‑wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spice, preventing pockets of raw flour.

Pro Tip: Sift the flour for an extra‑light batter.
2

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mash the banana until smooth, then whisk in milk, melted butter, and a splash of vanilla if using. The banana’s moisture will help bind the batter.

Pro Tip: Add a tablespoon of yogurt for extra fluffiness.
3

Create the Batter

Make a well in the dry mixture, pour in the wet ingredients, and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. A few lumps are fine; over‑mixing will make pancakes tough.

Pro Tip: Let the batter rest 5 minutes for the flour to hydrate.
4

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non‑stick skillet over medium heat, brush with a little oil, and pour ¼‑cup portions. Cook 2‑3 minutes per side, watching for golden bubbles before flipping.

Pro Tip: Keep a warm oven (200 °F) to hold finished pancakes.
5

Serve & Enjoy

Stack the pancakes, drizzle with maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt, and sprinkle extra cinnamon or toasted nuts for texture. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Expert Tips

Tip #1: Use Over‑ripe Bananas

The darker the spots, the sweeter and more flavorful the banana, which reduces the need for added sugar and gives the pancakes a moist crumb.

Tip #2: Adjust Consistency

If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk; if too runny, sprinkle a tablespoon of flour. Aim for a pourable but not watery texture.

Tip #3: Keep Heat Moderate

Medium heat prevents the exterior from burning while the interior stays undercooked, yielding perfectly golden pancakes with a tender center.

Storage & Variations

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a toaster or skillet. Freeze individual pancakes on a tray, then bag for up to 2 months. Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice in autumn, or fold in blueberries for a fruity twist.

Nutrition

Per serving (1 pancake)

Calories
120 kcal
Protein
4 g
Carbs
18 g
Fat
3 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes—swap the whole‑wheat flour for an equal amount of certified gluten‑free oat or rice flour. The texture stays light, and the banana’s moisture compensates for any slight difference.

Lightly oil the skillet with a neutral oil or use a non‑stick spray. Heat the pan first, then add the oil;

Absolutely. Replace up to ¼ cup of flour with an unflavored or vanilla whey/plant protein powder. Adjust milk slightly to keep the batter pourable.

Recipe Summary

Prep
30 min
Cook
3 min
Total
33 min
Servings
3
Category: Breakfast and Brunch
Cuisine: International
Difficulty: Easy
Course: Main
Quick Tips
  • Make ahead friendly
  • Freezer safe 3 months
  • Easily doubled
  • Customizable

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups whole‑wheat flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 large ripe banana, mashed
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant‑based)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

1
Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl whisk together whole‑wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spice, preventing pockets of raw flour....

2
Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mash the banana until smooth, then whisk in milk, melted butter, and a splash of vanilla if using. The banana’s moisture will help bind the batter....

3
Create the Batter

Make a well in the dry mixture, pour in the wet ingredients, and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. A few lumps are fine; over‑mixing will make pancakes tough....

4
Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non‑stick skillet over medium heat, brush with a little oil, and pour ¼‑cup portions. Cook 2‑3 minutes per side, watching for golden bubbles before flipping....

5
Serve & Enjoy

Stack the pancakes, drizzle with maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt, and sprinkle extra cinnamon or toasted nuts for texture. Serve immediately for the best flavor....

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