Easy Banana Pancakes for Toddlers (Freezer-Friendly)

Who These Pancakes Suit

As your little one grows and their palate expands, quick, nutritious, and easy-to-manage meals become even more essential. These banana pancakes are a fantastic option for babies from around 12 months and up. They’re soft, naturally sweet, and sized just right for tiny hands, making them perfect for toddlers learning to self-feed. Plus, they’re a godsend for busy parents thanks to their freezer-friendly nature. Whip up a batch, and you’ll have wholesome breakfasts or snacks ready to go throughout the week!

Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana (the riper, the sweeter!)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
• A tiny bit of unsalted butter or oil for the griddle

Optional Add-ins (for extra nutrition or flavor):

• 1-2 tablespoons finely ground oats
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (soaked in a tiny bit of water first, or ground)
• A pinch of vanilla extract
• Finely grated zucchini or carrot (hidden veggies!)

Steps

1. Mash the banana: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. A few small lumps are fine.
2. Whisk in wet ingredients: Add the egg and milk to the mashed banana. Whisk everything together until well combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon (if using). If adding ground oats or chia seeds, mix them in here too.
4. Mix wet and dry: Pour the wet banana mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make pancakes tough, so a few lumps are perfectly okay.
5. Cook the pancakes: Heat a lightly greased non-stick griddle or frying pan over medium-low heat. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of batter per pancake onto the griddle. These are best as mini pancakes, perfect for little fingers!
6. Flip and finish: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The exact time depends on your stove and pancake size.
7. Cool: Transfer cooked pancakes to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.

Storage & Serving Tips

Serve these fluffy pancakes warm, cut into appropriate bite-sized pieces for your child. They’re delicious plain, or you can offer them with a dollop of plain yogurt, a thin smear of unsweetened nut butter (if allergies are cleared), or a side of fresh fruit. Avoid syrups or honey for little ones.

Freezing Instructions:

Once cooled, arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, or until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Then, transfer the frozen pancakes to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month.

Reheating:

Simply pop a few frozen pancakes into the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or toast them lightly in a toaster oven until warmed through. Always check the temperature before serving to your child.

Important Safety Notes

This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making dietary changes for your child.

Allergies:

When introducing new foods to your baby, it’s always wise to introduce them one at a time over a few days. This helps you identify potential allergic reactions. Keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort, rash, or breathing difficulties. If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact your pediatrician immediately.

Sweeteners & Salt:

For children under 12 months, avoid giving honey. It carries a risk of infant botulism. We also recommend avoiding added sugar and salt in foods prepared for young children. These banana pancakes get their sweetness naturally from the ripe fruit!

Choking Hazards:

Always supervise your child while they are eating. Cut pancakes into small, manageable pieces appropriate for your child’s age and chewing ability to reduce the risk of choking. Ensure they are seated upright in a high chair during mealtimes.

Note: Totals vary by provider, region, and part quality.

Images sourced from Pexels.