Valentines Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Name: Valentines Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Chocolate chips for topping; Maple syrup for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love starting my Valentine's Day with something special, and these Chocolate Banana Pancakes never fail to impress. Combining the rich sweetness of chocolate with the delightful flavor of ripe bananas creates a breakfast that’s both indulgent and incredibly satisfying. These pancakes are fluffy, easy to prepare, and perfect for sharing with someone you love. Topped with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup, they make each bite a new delight. Whether for breakfast in bed or a cozy brunch, these pancakes are a delicious treat I can’t get enough of!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:40:14.707Z

When I first made these Chocolate Banana Pancakes, I was amazed at how the flavors harmonized perfectly. The bananas not only add natural sweetness, but they also help make the pancakes incredibly moist. I found that letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking allows for better fluffiness, which is something I always look for in pancakes.

Another tip I learned along the way is to use a non-stick skillet on medium heat to ensure even cooking. This way, the pancakes get that beautiful golden-brown color while remaining tender inside. It’s all about finding the right balance, and these pancakes have become a favorite in our home for special occasions.

        Why You Will Love These Pancakes
        Decadent chocolate flavor paired with sweet banana
Fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for a romantic breakfast or brunch
Quick and easy recipe that brings joy to your table

      

Perfecting the Pancake Batter

To achieve the best texture in your pancakes, it's important not to overmix the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine; they will hydrate during cooking. Overmixing can lead to tough cakes, so embrace a lighter hand for fluffy results.

Remember that the ripeness of your banana plays a crucial role in flavor and sweetness. A perfectly ripe banana will be heavily speckled and easily mashable. If you find your bananas are not ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

Cooking Tips for Fluffy Pancakes

When it comes to cooking the pancakes, ensuring your skillet is at the right temperature is key. If your skillet is too hot, the edges will burn before the center cooks through. Medium heat is usually perfect; conduct a quick test by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface – they should sizzle and evaporate instantly but not smoke.

Pancakes are best served fresh, so only cook as many as you plan to eat immediately. If you're cooking for a crowd, you can keep finished pancakes warm in an oven set to 200°F (93°C) on a baking sheet while finishing the rest. Just be sure to stack them with a piece of parchment paper between each to prevent sticking!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate chips for topping
Maple syrup for serving

Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and texture!

Instructions

Instructions for Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, mashed banana, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Cook the Pancakes

Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes.

Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown. Add chocolate chips to the batter before flipping if desired.

Serve

Stack the pancakes on a plate, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh banana slices and more chocolate chips if you wish. Enjoy your delicious breakfast!

For best results, serve them warm and enjoy immediately.

Pro Tips

Using ripe bananas enhances the sweetness and flavor of the pancakes. You can also add nuts or berries for extra texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains a binding agent such as xanthan gum; otherwise, the texture of the pancakes may suffer. Additionally, you can use almond milk or oat milk to replace regular milk if dairy is a concern.

For a vegan-friendly alternative, swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until it thickens) and use a plant-based butter substitute. The cocoa powder adds depth, but if you wish to cut down on sweetness, reduce the sugar by half to balance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra romantic touch, create a pancake stack adorned with various toppings. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or whipped cream can elevate your dish. If you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of peanut butter or Nutella can complement the chocolate-banana theme beautifully.

Instead of traditional maple syrup, consider a warm chocolate sauce for drizzling. You can make it by gently melting chocolate with a bit of cream on the stovetop. This creates an indulgent topping that pairs wonderfully with the banana flavor in the pancakes.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover pancakes, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months.

Reheating is simple. For refrigerated pancakes, pop them in the toaster for a quick treat. If they're frozen, heat them in the microwave with a damp paper towel for 30 seconds to 1 minute or use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm them through and retain their fluffy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked pancakes between layers of parchment paper. Reheat directly from the freezer.

→ What can I serve with these pancakes?

They’re great with maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a scoop of ice cream for a dessert twist!