These 3 Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Pancakes are a simple, sweet, and healthy treat you can whip up in no time. Made with just ripe bananas, oats, and eggs, they have a naturally delicious flavor and a soft texture that’s perfect for any breakfast or snack.
I love how easy these pancakes are to make—you only need a blender or a fork to mix everything together, which means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. I often toss in a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips for a little extra fun, but the basic recipe is great all on its own.
One of my favorite ways to serve these pancakes is with a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of peanut butter on top. They’re also fantastic with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt. These pancakes always remind me of cozy weekend mornings, when I want something tasty but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best sweetness and soft texture. If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can mash cooked sweet potato or pumpkin as a substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Rolled Oats: I recommend rolled oats because they give the pancakes a nice texture. If you only have quick oats, they’ll work but may result in a softer pancake. You can also grind the oats into oat flour for a smoother batter.
Eggs: Eggs bind everything together and give structure. If you need a vegan option, try flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), but the texture might be a bit different.
How Can I Make Pancakes That Hold Together and Cook Evenly?
Getting the right pancake texture and cooking them evenly can be tricky. Here are some helpful tips:
- Blend the ingredients well until smooth to avoid clumps of oats or banana chunks that can cause uneven cooking.
- Use a non-stick pan and heat it to medium, not too hot, so pancakes cook through without burning.
- Pour small rounds of batter to keep pancakes thinner and easier to flip.
- Cook the first side until bubbles form and edges look set before flipping to avoid breakage.
- If your batter feels too runny, add a bit more oats to thicken it up for better handling.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Blender or food processor – makes mixing the bananas, oats, and eggs quick and easy for a smooth batter.
- Non-stick skillet or griddle – helps the pancakes cook evenly and prevents sticking without too much oil.
- Spatula – essential for flipping pancakes gently so they don’t break apart.
- Measuring cups – to get the oat amount right for the perfect pancake texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy flavors perfect in fall or winter.
- Mix in a handful of chocolate chips or blueberries to add bursts of sweetness and texture.
- Try swapping some oats with almond flour for a nuttier taste and different texture.
- Include a spoonful of peanut or almond butter in the batter for extra protein and richness.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Pancakes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup rolled oats
For Cooking and Serving:
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for the pan
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
- Additional banana slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook your pancakes. So, in about 15 minutes total, you can enjoy a warm and healthy breakfast or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Batter:
Put the ripe bananas, eggs, and rolled oats into a blender or food processor. Blend everything together until you get a smooth batter that’s ready to cook.
2. Cooking the Pancakes:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat. Lightly spray it with cooking spray or brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look set.
3. Flipping and Finishing:
Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula. Cook the other side for about 1-2 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and stack on a plate.
4. Serving Suggestions:
Top your pancakes with extra banana slices and drizzle with maple syrup if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your simple, tasty banana oatmeal pancakes!
Can I Use Frozen Bananas for These Pancakes?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw frozen bananas completely and mash them well before blending with the other ingredients. This helps create a smooth batter for cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Pancakes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Pancakes?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cinnamon, vanilla extract, chocolate chips, or blueberries to customize the flavor to your liking.
Are These Pancakes Gluten-Free?
They can be if you use certified gluten-free oats. Regular rolled oats may be processed in facilities that handle gluten, so check the label if you’re sensitive.
