Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Name: Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large ripe banana, mashed; 1 cup milk; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; Extra butter for cooking

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely adore starting my mornings with these Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes! They are fluffy, rich in flavor, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness of ripe bananas. I love how the chocolate chips melt into the pancakes while cooking, creating pockets of gooey goodness. Servicing these pancakes to my loved ones on Valentine’s Day has become a cherished tradition, as they’re not only delicious but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere at the breakfast table. Trust me, they’re a delightful way to show someone you care!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:45:36.045Z

When I first decided to make these pancakes, I wanted something special that screamed love and comfort. I experimented with the batter, blending in mashed bananas to keep them moist and adding chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. The result was more than I hoped for—tender pancakes that filled the house with an irresistible aroma.

What I've learned is that the key to rich flavor lies in letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. This short break allows the flour to hydrate fully, resulting in fluffier pancakes. Trust me, it's a game-changer that you won't want to skip, especially on a special occasion!

Why You'll Love These Pancakes
Decadent chocolate flavor balanced with sweet bananas
Light and fluffy texture that feels indulgent yet healthy
Perfect for a cozy breakfast on Valentine's Day or any day!

Mastering the Perfect Pancake Batter

Creating a smooth batter is crucial for fluffy pancakes. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix; this activates the gluten in the flour, which could lead to a dense texture. Ideally, you should mix until the batter is just combined, leaving a few lumps. This is normal and ensures a light and airy pancake. Also, letting the batter rest for 5-10 minutes can help enhance the texture further, giving the leavening agents time to activate.

The banana not only adds natural sweetness but also acts as a binding agent, replacing some of the eggs' function in traditional pancake recipes. Its flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate, so make sure to use a very ripe banana for maximum sweetness and flavor. If you find yourself without ripe bananas, you can mash a fresh one and mix it with a tablespoon of sugar to mimic the sweetness.

Cooking Techniques for Golden Brown Pancakes

For perfectly cooked pancakes, maintaining the right heat level is essential. Start with medium heat, and if you notice that the pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. The key is to allow the pancakes to cook long enough to form bubbles on the surface (2-3 minutes), indicating they are ready to flip. The goal is golden edges without burnt spots, which requires some attention but is definitely worth the effort.

Using a non-stick skillet is highly recommended, as it ensures the pancakes release easily without requiring too much extra butter, which can lead to greasy results. I often find that swirling just a small amount of butter or oil before adding the batter allows for an even cooking surface without adding excess fat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up your chocolate banana pancakes:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large ripe banana, mashed
1 cup milk
1 egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Extra butter for cooking

Make sure to have your ingredients measured and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pancakes:

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the mashed banana, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Cook Pancakes

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

Serve Warm

Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings such as syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.

Enjoy your sweet creation with someone special!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts or berries to the batter for added flavor and texture. Also, adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your preference.

Storing and Reheating Pancakes

These chocolate banana pancakes can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Allow cooked pancakes to cool completely before stacking them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days or can be frozen for up to a month. When reheating, a toaster oven or microwave works well; if using a microwave, place a damp paper towel over the pancakes to keep them moist.

To reheat frozen pancakes, simply take them out and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or pop them in a toaster directly from the freezer. If they begin to dry out, drizzle a little maple syrup over them while reheating for added moisture and flavor enhancements.

Delicious Topping Ideas

While these pancakes are delicious on their own, adding toppings can elevate them further. Consider serving with fresh sliced strawberries or raspberries for a bright and refreshing balance to the rich chocolate and banana flavors. A drizzle of homemade or store-bought chocolate syrup can intensify the chocolate experience, while a dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess.

For a nutty, nutritious twist, try sprinkling toasted chopped walnuts or pecans on top. The added crunch complements the fluffy texture of the pancakes nicely. Sometimes, I like adding a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet finish, creating an elegant presentation perfect for any brunch table.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ What can I use as a substitute for egg?

You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to use the batter fresh for the fluffiest pancakes, but you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine them just before cooking.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster when ready to enjoy.