If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a joyful treat but comes together with simple ingredients, you’re about to fall in love with Mini Banana Pancake Bites. These golden, fluffy bites are slices of banana dipped in cozy pancake batter, then pan-fried until crisp on the outside and meltingly sweet inside. They’re vegan, gluten free (if you choose the right flour), and an absolute delight for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re jazzing up your weekend brunch or seeking a snack that makes everyone smile, Mini Banana Pancake Bites check every box!

Mini Banana Pancake Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mini Banana Pancake Bites is just how straightforward the ingredients are. Each one has a purpose: bananas for sweetness, flour for structure, and a few pantry favorites ensure the pancake bite is flavorful, golden, and tender. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love using them:

Bananas: Fresh, ripe bananas deliver all the natural sweetness and creamy texture at the heart of every bite.
Oat or almond milk: Both plant-based milks keep the recipe vegan while adding a subtle nutty undertone—regular milk works too for flexibility.
Maple syrup: Just a hint delivers that mellow, caramel-like sweetness without overpowering the bananas.
Baking powder: This is your secret to puffy, cloud-like pancake batter that fries up beautifully.
Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and makes these bites smell like comfort as they cook.
Cinnamon: The perfect spice to deepen the flavor and make each bite taste cozy.
Gluten free all-purpose flour: Use your favorite blend (like King Arthur’s Measure for Measure); it lets everyone at the table enjoy these pancake bites. Regular all-purpose flour is a great option, too.
Butter (vegan or regular): Essential for frying and for that beautiful golden crust.

How to Make Mini Banana Pancake Bites

Step 1: Slice the Bananas

Start with your bananas—select ones that are ripe but not mushy. Slice them into 1/3 inch medallions. This thickness helps them hold together while frying and gives you a perfect balance between gooey center and crisp edges.

Step 2: Mix the Pancake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the oat or almond milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Add the flour and whisk until you have a smooth, lump-free pancake batter. It should be thick enough to hold onto each banana slice but still pourable.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Set a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add about half a tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and get nice and sizzly—this is what will give your Mini Banana Pancake Bites their signature crispy outside.

Step 4: Dip and Fry

Using a fork or your fingers, dip each banana medallion into the pancake batter, ensuring it gets fully coated. Working in batches, lay them gently into the hot skillet, leaving about an inch of space between each one. Fry until golden brown on one side, then gently flip to cook the other—just a couple minutes per side.

Step 5: Drain and Repeat

When your bites are beautifully golden on each side, transfer them to a plate (line it with paper towel if you want to soak up any extra oil). Repeat with the rest of the banana slices, adding fresh butter to the pan between batches as needed. Serve your Mini Banana Pancake Bites warm for the ultimate treat.

How to Serve Mini Banana Pancake Bites

Garnishes

For a breakfast table that really shines, finish your Mini Banana Pancake Bites with a handful of garnishes—think a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Fresh berries add a gorgeous pop of color (and some juicy brightness) too.

Side Dishes

Pair these bites with creamy Greek yogurt or a fruit salad for extra staying power. They’re also fantastic alongside crispy veggie sausage for a savory-sweet combo, or with freshly squeezed orange juice for an energizing start.

Creative Ways to Present

Mini Banana Pancake Bites are perfectly snackable on their own, but you can stack them on skewers for dipping, pile them in a little bowl with toothpicks for a brunch party, or thread them onto bamboo sticks with fresh fruit for a playful platter. Kids (and grownups!) will love grabbing them straight off the stick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooled Mini Banana Pancake Bites in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to three days, and make for a fun school snack or after-work pick-me-up, too.

Freezing

Mini Banana Pancake Bites freeze beautifully! Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid before transferring to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for two to three months—just grab a handful when the mood strikes!

Reheating

For best results, reheat the bites in a nonstick skillet over low heat until warmed through so they regain their slightly crisp exterior. The microwave works in a pinch, though the texture might be a bit softer—still delicious, especially with a drizzle of sauce or syrup.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

For best results, stick to regular or a trusted gluten free all-purpose flour (like King Arthur Measure for Measure). Other types like almond flour or coconut flour won’t provide the same texture that makes Mini Banana Pancake Bites so fluffy and delicious.

What’s the best way to make these bites ahead?

You can slice the bananas and mix the pancake batter the night before, keeping both covered in the fridge. Assemble and cook fresh in the morning for that wonderful just-fried crispness, or cook ahead and warm them up as needed.

Do I have to use vegan butter?

Nope! Regular unsalted butter will work just as well. Vegan butter is a great substitute if you’re keeping things dairy-free—either way, you’ll get that golden, mouthwatering crust on your Mini Banana Pancake Bites.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Absolutely! Kids love dipping each banana slice in batter and seeing them puff up in the pan. Just be sure an adult handles the frying step, but let little hands help with slicing and dipping for a fun family kitchen project.

Are Mini Banana Pancake Bites freezer friendly?

Yes, they’re perfect for freezing. Cool them completely, freeze in a single layer, and then keep in a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat whenever you need a quick breakfast (or snack) with a homemade touch.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is proof that the most joyful dishes can be made from everyday staples—Mini Banana Pancake Bites are a celebration of comfort, flavor, and a bit of breakfast magic. I hope you’ll whip these up soon for your crew (or just yourself!) and share in the fun, bite-sized joy they bring to the table.

Mini Banana Pancake Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5.1 from 16 reviews

Author: Patricia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Banana slices, coated in pancake batter and fried to perfection, these mini banana pancake bites are a delightful and family-friendly breakfast option that is both vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients

Mini Banana Pancake Bites

4 bananas, sliced into ⅓ inch thick medallions
1 cup oat or almond milk
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter, for frying

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Instructions

Mini Banana Pancake Bites – Begin by slicing the bananas. Whisk together milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla, and cinnamon. Add flour to create batter. Heat skillet, add butter, coat banana slices in batter, fry until golden. Flip and cook golden on both sides. Serve hot.