Banana Oat Flakes Pancakes

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### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Oats**:
– In a blender or food processor, pulse the rolled oats until they form a flour-like texture. You want them to be finely ground, but still with a bit of texture to give the pancakes some bite.

2. **Mash the Banana**:
– In a medium mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. The banana not only adds sweetness but also helps bind the ingredients together, creating a soft, moist texture.

3. **Mix the Wet Ingredients**:
– To the mashed banana, add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.

4. **Combine Dry Ingredients**:
– In a separate bowl, mix the oat flour (blended oats), baking powder, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.

5. **Mix Together**:
– Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. If the batter feels too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. It should be thick, but pourable.

6. **Cook the Pancakes**:
– Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with coconut oil or butter.
– Pour small scoops of batter onto the skillet, using about 1/4 cup for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side until bubbles start to form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

7. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve warm. Top with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of nuts or seeds.

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### Why Banana Oat Flakes Pancakes Are So Special

– **Banana-Infused Fluffiness**: The mashed banana in the batter gives these pancakes a naturally sweet, moist, and fluffy texture. It makes them incredibly soft while adding nutritional value without the need for added sugars.

– **Oat-Based Goodness**: Oats are a great source of fiber and protein, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied. They also provide a chewy texture that gives these pancakes a heartier feel compared to traditional pancakes made with white flour.

– **Naturally Sweet**: Bananas provide all the sweetness you need, so there’s no need to rely on refined sugars or syrups to sweeten your pancakes. You can add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey if you like, but it’s not necessary for a delicious breakfast.

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### Tips and Variations

– **Add-ins**: Feel free to get creative with add-ins like chocolate chips, walnuts, or blueberries. You can fold them into the batter before cooking for extra flavor and texture.

– **Vegan Option**: To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, allowed to sit for 5 minutes) and use a plant-based milk.

– **Make it Gluten-Free**: Use certified gluten-free oats if you need the pancakes to be completely gluten-free.

– **Add Protein**: For an extra protein boost, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the batter. This is especially great for a post-workout breakfast or snack.

– **Make it a Meal**: Turn these pancakes into a complete meal by serving them with a side of scrambled eggs or yogurt for added protein.

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### Final Thoughts

**Banana Oat Flakes Pancakes** are the perfect breakfast for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, filling, and delicious meal to start the day. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the hearty texture of oats, these pancakes provide a great alternative to traditional pancakes. They’re quick and easy to make, and you can customize them with your favorite add-ins for a personalized touch. Try this recipe the next time you crave pancakes, and enjoy a healthy twist on a classic favorite!