Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Name: Valentine 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; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Classic Ideas

We adore starting a special day with these decadent chocolate banana pancakes. Combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with rich cocoa, this recipe transforms a classic breakfast into a delightful love letter. Each bite is soft and fluffy, and the addition of chocolate chips makes it feel like a true morning treat. Perfect for sharing with someone special, these pancakes are both satisfying and indulgent, ensuring every couple enjoys a deliciously romantic breakfast experience.

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:26:34.756Z

As I flipped through my recipe book on Valentine’s Day, I stumbled upon this delightful chocolate banana pancake recipe. The smell of bananas and chocolate blending together was simply irresistible, and I knew I had to try it. What surprised me was how easy it was to incorporate ripe bananas into the batter, giving a natural sweetness that paired beautifully with the cocoa.

After experimenting with the cooking time, I found that a few minutes on each side yielded the perfect fluffiness. Drizzling with maple syrup and sprinkling a few extra chocolate chips on top completed the dish, turning a simple breakfast into a romantic feast.

        Why You Will Love These Pancakes
        Fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Chocolatey goodness paired with caramelized bananas
Customizable with your favorite toppings like whipped cream or nuts

      

Perfecting Your Pancake Batter

The key to achieving beautifully fluffy pancakes lies in how you mix your batter. It’s crucial to avoid over-mixing; once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, simply fold until no dry flour pockets remain. A few lumps are okay! Over-mixing can produce dense pancakes instead of the desired light and airy structure. If you’re aiming to make this batter ahead of time, you can store it in the fridge for up to 30 minutes, which can help to mellow the flavors.

Using a ripe banana not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the pancake's moisture and flavor. Ensure it is well-mashed for even distribution throughout the batter. If bananas are not available, you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce at a 1:1 ratio, which will keep the pancakes moist while also providing a touch of sweetness.

Tips for Cooking and Serving

While cooking the pancakes, maintain a steady medium heat on your skillet; too high and the pancakes may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. You can test if the skillet is ready by sprinkling a few drops of water on it—if the droplets dance and evaporate quickly, it’s time to cook. Use a ladle or measuring cup to pour the batter to ensure uniform pancake sizes, promoting even cooking and an appealing presentation.

When serving, stack your pancakes high for an impressive visual display. Drizzle them generously with maple syrup, or try a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. For extra texture and flavor, consider topping with nuts, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also customize the flavor profile by adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract—just a teaspoon can elevate the overall experience.

Ingredients

To make these delightful pancakes, gather your ingredients:

For the Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Mix everything well to ensure a creamy batter!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pancakes:

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes or until the other side is well cooked.

Serve and Enjoy

Stack the pancakes on a plate, drizzle with maple syrup, and add any additional toppings you love. Serve warm for a delightful breakfast experience.

Enjoy your delicious Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or serving with fresh berries.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These pancakes can be made in advance and stored easily. Once cooked, allow them to cool before stacking them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Store the stack in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster for a few minutes or warm them up in a skillet on low heat until heated through.

If you want to freeze the pancakes for longer storage, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet after cooling, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen, either in the toaster or microwave, and enjoy a delicious breakfast at a moment’s notice.

Variations for Every Taste

These chocolate banana pancakes are highly customizable. For a nutty crunch, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter, which not only add texture but also complement the chocolate and banana flavors beautifully. Additionally, swapping the chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips can give the pancakes an exciting twist that satisfies different sweet tooth cravings.

For a healthier spin, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adjustment adds extra fiber and nutrients without compromising the delightful taste. Moreover, making these pancakes gluten-free is easy by using a gluten-free flour blend—just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for a deliciously safe option.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it will change the texture slightly. Expect denser pancakes.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the milk with almond or soy milk and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.