Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

## Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Oat Flour
If you don’t have oat flour on hand, you can easily make your own! Place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor and pulse until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency. This step will help create a smooth, slightly chewy pancake texture.

### Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. The bananas act as both a sweetener and a binder for the pancakes, so make sure to mash them well. You want to ensure that the bananas are ripe for the best natural sweetness.

### Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
To the mashed bananas, add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.

### Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the oat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Then, add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the pancakes dense.

### Step 5: Adjust the Batter Consistency (If Needed)
If the batter feels too thick, add a little water (about 1-2 tablespoons at a time) until you reach the desired pancake batter consistency. You want the batter to be pourable but not runny.

### Step 6: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Once the pan is hot, spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Gently spread the batter into a round shape using the back of the spoon.

Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on one side, or until small bubbles begin to form on the surface. Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side, until golden brown. The pancakes should be soft on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside.

### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pancakes are cooked, transfer them to a plate and serve immediately. Top with fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, a spoonful of nut butter, or whatever toppings you prefer.

## Tips for Perfect Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

1. **Use Ripe Bananas**: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your pancakes will be. Look for bananas with brown spots or completely brown skins for maximum sweetness.
2. **Don’t Overmix**: Overmixing the pancake batter can make the pancakes dense. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated with the wet ingredients.
3. **Adjust the Heat**: Cook the pancakes over medium heat to avoid burning the outside while ensuring the inside cooks thoroughly. If the pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat.
4. **Let the Batter Rest**: Allow the pancake batter to sit for 5-10 minutes after mixing. This gives the oats a chance to absorb the liquid and results in fluffier pancakes.
5. **Use a Non-Stick Pan**: A non-stick skillet or griddle will make flipping the pancakes much easier, especially since this batter is a little thicker than regular pancake batter.
6. **Make It Your Own**: Feel free to add extras to the batter! Blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts can be folded into the batter for added texture and flavor.

## Customization Ideas

### 1. **Add Protein**:
For an extra boost of protein, stir in a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt into the batter. This will help make the pancakes even more filling and satisfying.

### 2. **Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Pancakes**:
For a treat, fold some mini chocolate chips into the batter before cooking. This turns the pancakes into a dessert-like breakfast that’s still packed with nutrients from the oats and bananas.

### 3. **Savory Banana Oatmeal Pancakes**:
If you’re in the mood for something savory, omit the cinnamon and vanilla extract, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. You can even fold in finely chopped herbs (like chives) or a sprinkle of cheese for a savory version of these pancakes.

### 4. **Add Ground Flaxseed or Chia Seeds**:
Boost the nutritional value by adding ground flaxseed or chia seeds to the batter. Both are excellent sources of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, making your pancakes even healthier.

### 5. **Apple Cinnamon Banana Oatmeal Pancakes**:
For a fall-inspired twist, grate half an apple into the batter and sprinkle in some extra cinnamon. These pancakes will have a warm, comforting flavor perfect for the season.

## Nutritional Benefits of Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes offer a host of nutritional benefits thanks to their wholesome ingredients:

– **Bananas**: Packed with potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, bananas help support heart health, digestion, and provide sustained energy.
– **Oats**: A great source of soluble fiber, oats help lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar, and keep you feeling full longer. They’re also rich in iron and magnesium.
– **Eggs**: A complete protein, eggs provide essential amino acids and are rich in vitamins like B12, riboflavin, and selenium.
– **Cinnamon**: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon adds a burst of flavor and antioxidants to your pancakes.

By combining these ingredients, you get a hearty and balanced breakfast that fuels your day with complex carbs, healthy fats, protein, and plenty of vitamins and minerals.

## Conclusion: A Breakfast You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

**Banana Oatmeal Pancakes** are a simple, healthy, and delicious way to start your day. With the natural sweetness of bananas, the heartiness of oats, and a light, fluffy texture, these pancakes are perfect for anyone looking for a breakfast that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, they’re easily customizable to suit your preferences, whether you like them with fresh berries, nut butter, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips.

These pancakes are perfect for a cozy weekend brunch, a weekday breakfast, or even as a post-workout meal. Try them out and enjoy a healthier take on the classic pancake that will leave you feeling full, energized, and ready to tackle the day!