Banana Nutella Pancakes: Delicious Breakfast Recipe

Introduction

Embark on a culinary journey that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the decadent richness of Nutella in these irresistibly fluffy Banana Pancakes with Nutella. This recipe, thoughtfully crafted and meticulously detailed, promises a breakfast experience that is both comforting and indulgent, perfect for weekend brunches, special mornings, or whenever you crave a sweet, satisfying start to your day. Developed with love and precision, this recipe is published by Love With Recipes, ensuring you get a carefully curated, high-quality culinary guide to elevate your breakfast game.

Time

From start to finish, preparing these Banana Pancakes with Nutella will take approximately 45 minutes. This includes preparation, cooking, and assembly time, making it an ideal weekend treat or a leisurely breakfast. The breakdown of time is as follows:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Assembly and Garnishing: 10 minutes

While the process may seem lengthy, the actual hands-on time is minimal, and the delightful aroma and taste reward your efforts instantly.

Needed Equipment

To ensure a smooth cooking experience, gather the following essential equipment before beginning:

• Mixing Bowls: At least two, one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients.
• Whisk and Wooden Spoon: For mixing and combining ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key for consistent results.
• Fork or Masher: To mash bananas smoothly without lumps.
• Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: Preferably with a flat surface for even cooking.
• Spatula: For flipping pancakes with ease and avoiding breakage.
• Ladle or Measuring Cup: To pour batter uniformly.
• Cooling Rack or Plate: To rest pancakes after cooking.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing bananas for garnish.
• Small Spoon or Spreader: For applying Nutella generously onto pancakes.
• Optional: Food Scale: For precise measurement of ingredients, especially if you are strict about portion control.

Tags

Breakfast, Brunch, Sweet, Pancakes, Banana, Nutella, Easy Recipes, Indulgent, Comfort Food, Vegetarian, Kid-Friendly, Weekend Special, Quick Breakfast, Vegetarian

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 large pancakes, suitable for 2 to 4 servings depending on appetite. Typically, each serving consists of 2 pancakes topped with Nutella and garnishes, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying multiple servings for a hearty breakfast.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as Easy to Moderate. It requires basic cooking skills such as mixing batter, cooking pancakes, and spreading Nutella. Novice cooks can successfully master this dish with careful attention to timing and technique. Experienced cooks will appreciate the straightforward process and the delightful results.

Allergen Information

For those with allergies, substitutions such as gluten-free flour or dairy-free milk and Nutella alternatives are recommended.

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for vegetarians. For vegans, replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs, use plant-based milk, and substitute Nutella with a vegan hazelnut spread. Adjustments are straightforward but require careful selection of ingredients to maintain flavor and texture.

Course

This dish is classified as a Breakfast or Brunch course. It can also serve as a sweet snack or dessert, especially when topped with additional ingredients like fruits, whipped cream, or ice cream.

Cuisine

This recipe belongs to the Western / American culinary tradition, blending classic pancake techniques with indulgent toppings for a modern twist.

Ingredients

Ingredient List for Banana Pancakes with Nutella

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Batter

1. Mash the Bananas

Begin by peeling the bananas and placing them into a mixing bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the bananas thoroughly until the mixture is smooth with minimal lumps. The texture should be creamy, with some small banana bits adding texture if desired. Mashing effectively ensures that the bananas blend seamlessly into the batter, providing natural sweetness and moisture.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the leavening agents, resulting in fluffier pancakes. Whisk these dry ingredients until well combined, breaking up any clumps to ensure a uniform mixture.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. The eggs should be fully incorporated, and the vanilla adds a subtle aroma that complements the bananas and Nutella.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined; do not overmix, as this can develop gluten and make the pancakes dense. It’s okay if the batter has a few lumps—this will contribute to a tender, fluffy texture. Rest the batter for 3-5 minutes if desired, allowing the baking powder to activate fully.

Cooking the Pancakes

5. Preheat the Pan

Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. To check if the pan is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water; if they dance and evaporate quickly, the pan is hot enough. Lightly grease the surface with a small amount of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

6. Pour and Cook

Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour approximately 1/4 to 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set, approximately 2-3 minutes. Use a spatula to gently flip the pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until both sides are golden brown and cooked through.

7. Repeat and Keep Warm

Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adjusting heat as necessary to prevent burning. Keep cooked pancakes warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F/95°C) while you finish cooking the rest.

Assembling and Serving

8. Spread Nutella

Once pancakes are cooked, spread a generous layer of Nutella on each pancake while still warm. This ensures the Nutella melts slightly, creating a creamy, luscious topping that melds with the pancake’s fluffy interior.

9. Add Garnishes

For an elegant presentation, top with sliced bananas and dust with powdered sugar. You can also add other toppings such as chopped nuts, fresh berries, or whipped cream if desired.

10. Serve Immediately

Serve your Banana Pancakes with Nutella hot, accompanied by a cup of coffee, tea, or fresh juice for a complete breakfast experience. The contrast of warm pancakes and cool toppings creates a delightful sensory experience.

Preparation Tips

• Use Ripe Bananas: Riper bananas are sweeter and mash more easily, ensuring a moist and flavorful batter.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce sugar or omit it altogether, especially if topping with Nutella.
• Test the Pan: Always test the skillet temperature before cooking a batch to avoid pancakes sticking or burning.
• Uniform Size: Use the same ladle or measuring cup for each pancake to ensure even cooking and presentation.
• Keep Warm: To serve pancakes hot and fluffy, keep cooked pancakes warm in an oven set to low temperature while cooking remaining batches.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. Reducing Nutella or adding extra fruit can modify these values.

Tips and Tricks

• Alternative Flours: For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free baking mix. Keep in mind that batter consistency may vary; adjust with additional milk if needed.
• Flavor Enhancements: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of orange zest into the batter for added flavor complexity.
• Make Ahead: Prepare pancake batter in advance and store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir before using.
• Extra Texture: Incorporate chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added crunch and richness.
• Healthy Variations: Use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar, or add chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

Add-ons

• Chopped nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans)
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
• Shredded coconut
• Chocolate shavings or chips
• Caramel or chocolate syrup drizzled on top

Side Dishes

Complement your Banana Pancakes with Nutella with a variety of side dishes to enhance your meal:

• Fresh fruit platter
• Yogurt parfait with granola and honey
• Scrambled eggs or omelet with herbs
• Maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness
• Freshly squeezed orange juice or smoothies

Improvements and Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed or chia eggs, use plant-based milk, and opt for vegan Nutella or hazelnut spread.
• Extra Fluffiness: Add a teaspoon of baking soda along with baking powder, and let the batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking.
• Flavor Boosts: Mix in cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolate-flavored pancake.
• Layered Dessert: Create a layered pancake stack with Nutella, banana slices, and whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

Save and Store

Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a toaster or microwave (covered with a damp paper towel) to warm them gently. For best flavor and texture, reheat pancakes in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and slightly crispy.

FAQ

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and stir gently before cooking to redistribute ingredients.

Can I freeze cooked pancakes?

Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then layer with parchment paper between each pancake and store in a sealed freezer bag. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet until hot.

Is Nutella suitable for all diets?

Nutella contains sugar, palm oil, and hazelnuts. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using a vegan or sugar-free hazelnut spread as a substitute.

Can I make these pancakes vegan?

Yes. Use plant-based milk, flaxseed or chia seed eggs, and vegan Nutella or hazelnut spread. Adjust baking powder if needed to maintain fluffiness.

Conclusion

Indulge in the ultimate breakfast experience with these fluffy, flavorful Banana Pancakes topped generously with Nutella. The natural sweetness of bananas combines harmoniously with the rich, chocolate-hazelnut spread, creating a delightful treat that appeals to all ages. Whether served as a weekend brunch or a special morning indulgence, this recipe guarantees a comforting, satisfying start to your day. At Love With Recipes, we believe that breakfast should be both delicious and memorable, and this dish exemplifies that philosophy perfectly. So gather your ingredients, follow the detailed steps, and enjoy a symphony of flavors that will elevate your breakfast routine to new heights.

References

• Love With Recipes. “Perfect Banana Pancakes.” https://lovewithrecipes.com
• Food Network. “Classic Pancake Recipes.” https://foodnetwork.com