Indulge in Bliss: The Ultimate Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Pancakes for a Perfect Weekend Breakfast
There’s something uniquely magical about Sunday mornings, especially the lazy ones where the world seems to slow down just for you. It’s a day traditionally dedicated to rest, relaxation, and perhaps, a delicious, comforting breakfast that makes the whole house smell inviting. This morning, those perfect elements converged in my kitchen, inspiring a creation that brought together a trifecta of my all-time favorite ingredients: chocolate, peanut butter, and banana. The result? A stack of incredibly satisfying and utterly delectable pancakes that are not just a meal, but an experience.
This recipe yielded five generously sized pancakes, each one a testament to wholesome indulgence, leaving me feeling perfectly content. When incorporating mashed banana into pancakes, or indeed any baked good, it naturally transforms the texture. These aren’t your typical light and fluffy diner-style pancakes; instead, they boast a wonderfully moist and dense consistency. If you appreciate a pancake that’s rich and satisfying rather than airy, you are absolutely going to adore these. For those new to using natural fruit purees like banana or applesauce as a binder and sweetener, the texture might take a moment to adjust to. I confess, it took me a little while when I first transitioned to these healthier alternatives, but now I wholeheartedly prefer them. Not only do they add fantastic flavor and nutrients, but they also significantly reduce the “points” or caloric density, making them a smart choice for mindful eating.
Double chocolate peanut butter banana pancakes
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup white flour
- 2 T cocoa powder
- 1 t baking soda
- 1 large mashed banana
- 1 t vanilla
- 1/3 cup almond milk, I use unsweetened original
- 1 T light peanut butter, melted (you could probably use PB2 as a replacement, I just don’t use it)
- 1/2 T mini chocolate chips
Instructions
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Mash up your banana and melt your peanut butter in the microwave, usually 2- 35 second rounds will do it.
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Mix your dry together then add your wet, including your banana and melted peanut butter. Leave just a small amount of peanut butter aside to drizzle pancakes with.
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Fold in your chocolate chips. I like to make my pancake mix up in a large measuring cup for easy pouring.
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Cook on your stove top on a sprayed griddle, flipping over when bubbles start to appear.Makes 5 large pancakes. drizzle with remaining peanut butter, 9sp or 7pp for all 5.
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Nutritional info (not incl banana) for all 5 pancakes.. Calories 281…Fat 10.2g… Saturated fat 3.2g… Carbs 41.4g… Fiber 6.2g… Sugars 5.8g… Protein 8.7g
Additional Info
Why You’ll Love These Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Pancakes
This recipe isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s about crafting a harmonious flavor profile that delights the palate. The rich, slightly bitter notes of cocoa powder are perfectly balanced by the natural sweetness of ripe banana. Then, the creamy, savory essence of peanut butter weaves through, adding a layer of depth and indulgence that is simply irresistible. This trio isn’t just a classic for a reason – they enhance each other, creating a breakfast that feels decadent yet is surprisingly wholesome.
The beauty of these pancakes also lies in their nutritional benefits. By utilizing mashed banana, we’re incorporating natural sugars and fiber, reducing the need for excessive added sweeteners and fats. Bananas are packed with potassium and essential vitamins, contributing to a healthier start to your day. The light peanut butter provides a good source of protein and healthy fats, keeping you feeling fuller for longer. Even with the delightful addition of mini chocolate chips, this recipe manages to be a smart choice for those watching their caloric intake or “points,” proving that delicious and satisfying can indeed go hand-in-hand with healthy eating.
Mastering the Moist Texture of Banana Pancakes
As mentioned earlier, the texture of these pancakes is a distinctive characteristic that sets them apart. If you’re accustomed to airy, cloud-like pancakes, these might initially feel different. The mashed banana acts as a natural binder and humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture. This results in a pancake that is wonderfully moist, dense, and almost cake-like in its consistency. It’s a hearty pancake that truly satisfies, especially on a cool morning. Instead of thinking of them as “not fluffy,” embrace their rich, substantial quality. This moistness also means they reheat beautifully, making them excellent for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.
For those who initially find the texture unusual, I encourage you to give it a few tries. Just like acquiring a taste for new foods, sometimes a slight shift in expectations is all that’s needed. You might find, as I did, that you come to prefer the dense, satisfying chewiness of banana-infused pancakes over their fluffier counterparts. It’s a testament to how natural ingredients can transform familiar dishes into something new and exciting, often with added health benefits.
Tips for Pancake Perfection
Achieving the best results with these double chocolate peanut butter banana pancakes is straightforward with a few key tips:
- Choose Your Bananas Wisely: For optimal sweetness and ease of mashing, use ripe bananas. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots on their peel – these are the sweetest and mash effortlessly, lending the perfect flavor and moisture to your pancakes.
- Don’t Overmix: After combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tougher pancakes. We want these to be tender and moist.
- Perfect Your Griddle Temperature: Heat your griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. A good test is to sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate within a second or two, it’s ready. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too cool, and they won’t brown properly.
- Know When to Flip: Patience is key. Wait until you see bubbles forming on the surface of the pancake and the edges start to look set. This indicates that the bottom is cooked and browned, and it’s time to flip. A single, confident flip is all you need for beautifully cooked pancakes.
- Consistent Sizing: For uniform pancakes, use a 1/4 cup measuring cup or an ice cream scoop to portion out your batter onto the griddle. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions and Customizations
While these Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Pancakes are phenomenal on their own, a few additions can elevate your breakfast experience even further:
- Extra Drizzle: Don’t forget that little bit of reserved melted peanut butter for drizzling! For an extra touch of decadence, a sprinkle of additional mini chocolate chips or a light dusting of cocoa powder can also be lovely.
- Fresh Fruit: Complement the banana flavor with slices of fresh banana, berries, or other seasonal fruits. The tartness of berries, in particular, can provide a wonderful contrast to the rich flavors of the pancakes.
- Sweeteners: A light drizzle of maple syrup or honey is always a classic choice. If you’re managing your points, a sugar-free syrup can be a great alternative.
- Protein Boost: For an even more substantial meal, serve alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or a side of scrambled eggs.
- Nutty Crunch: A sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful textural contrast.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings and make these pancakes truly your own. You could even stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for an extra layer of warmth.
Understanding the Nutritional Aspects
The nutritional information provided for all five pancakes (excluding the banana itself, which contributes natural sugars and fiber) gives a clear picture of this wholesome breakfast choice:
- Calories: 281 – This makes for a very reasonable and satisfying breakfast, especially considering you get five sizable pancakes.
- Fat: 10.2g (Saturated fat: 3.2g) – The fat primarily comes from the light peanut butter, which contains healthy fats essential for energy and nutrient absorption.
- Carbs: 41.4g – A good source of energy to start your day, with a significant portion coming from the banana and flour.
- Fiber: 6.2g – This is an excellent amount of fiber for a single meal, crucial for digestive health and sustained satiety. The banana, cocoa powder, and flour all contribute to this.
- Sugars: 5.8g – Remarkably low for such a flavorful pancake recipe, indicating that much of the sweetness comes naturally from the banana rather than added sugars.
- Protein: 8.7g – A decent protein boost, primarily from the peanut butter and almond milk, helping to build and repair tissues and keep hunger at bay.
This breakdown confirms that these pancakes are not just tasty but also a smart, balanced option for those seeking a fulfilling and health-conscious breakfast. The use of unsweetened almond milk and light peanut butter are key choices that keep the overall nutritional profile favorable.
So, on your next Sunday morning, or any morning when you crave a little extra comfort and joy, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try these Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Pancakes. They are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to slow down, savor, and nourish yourself with truly delicious food. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment alone, these pancakes are sure to bring a smile to your face and a satisfied warmth to your soul. Embrace the moist texture, relish the incredible flavor combination, and enjoy a breakfast that feels like a loving hug. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!