Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Name: Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Sliced bananas; Chocolate chips; Maple syrup; Greek yogurt; Chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Soft Ideas

I absolutely love starting my day with a delicious stack of pancakes, especially when chocolate and bananas are involved! These Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also fill the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. I enjoy making them for special occasions or simply to brighten an ordinary day. They are quick to whip up, fluffy, and perfect for sharing with loved ones, making them an ideal choice for a Valentine’s breakfast surprise.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:25:34.677Z

When I first baked these pancakes, I was skeptical about combining chocolate and banana in the morning. However, the result left me pleasantly surprised! The sweetness of ripe bananas blended perfectly with rich cocoa, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. I recommend using overripe bananas as they offer the best sweetness and moisture, ensuring your pancakes are wonderfully fluffy.

As I experimented with different toppings, I discovered that a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of nuts elevate these pancakes to a whole new level. This twist not only adds creaminess but also provides a satisfying crunch. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be wanting them every weekend!

Why You Will Love These Pancakes
Decadent chocolate flavor perfectly paired with sweet bananas
Fluffy texture that makes every bite irresistible
A fun and creative way to celebrate love on Valentine's Day

Perfecting Your Pancake Technique

To achieve fluffy pancakes that are light and airy, be careful not to overmix your batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just incorporated. A few lumps are okay and will lead to a more tender pancake. If you prefer a slightly more uniform texture, you can let the batter rest for about 5-10 minutes after mixing, which allows the gluten in the flour to relax and leads to a softer pancake.

When cooking, preheat your skillet over medium heat and ensure it reaches the right temperature before adding the batter. A splash of water should sizzle upon contact if it's hot enough. If the pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing them to cook through without burning the outside. Aim for pancakes that are golden brown on both sides.

Banana Varieties and Substitutions

Using ripe bananas is crucial for this recipe as they not only add natural sweetness but also contribute moisture to the batter. If you find yourself with overly ripe bananas, don’t worry! They work perfectly in this recipe. In the absence of bananas, you could substitute with applesauce at a 1:1 ratio; however, the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, you can easily substitute regular milk with almond milk or oat milk. For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or a chia seed mixture. This adjustment maintains the binding quality required for fluffy pancakes.

Ingredients for Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Pancake Batter

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons melted butter

Toppings

Sliced bananas
Chocolate chips
Maple syrup
Greek yogurt
Chopped nuts (optional)

How to Make Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together milk, egg, mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Cook Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

Serve Hot

Serve the pancakes warm with sliced bananas, chocolate chips, and a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. Also, if you prefer thinner pancakes, simply add a bit more milk to the batter.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month. To freeze, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy them, reheat pancakes in a microwave for about 30-60 seconds or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

To revive their fluffiness, consider adding a few drops of water to the plate when microwaving and covering it with a damp paper towel. This steam will help to maintain their moisture and fluffiness, as microwave cooking can often lead to a drier result.

Creative Topping Ideas

While this recipe suggests banana slices, chocolate chips, and maple syrup as classic toppings, feel free to get creative! Fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries can add a fruity zest, while a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate syrup can elevate the dessert-like quality of these pancakes. Don't forget whipped cream for an indulgent touch!

Chopped nuts can also add a delightful crunch, so consider walnuts or pecans as a sprinkle option. For a gourmet twist, infuse the pancakes with a hint of espresso powder for a mocha flavor or use flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut to tantalize your taste buds even more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just stir it well before cooking the pancakes.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Definitely! Once cooled, freeze the pancakes in an airtight container. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What can I substitute for flour?

You can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if you want a healthier alternative.

→ How do I know when the pancakes are done?

Pancakes are ready to flip when bubbles form on the surface. They should be golden brown on both sides when fully cooked.