Valentines Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Name: Valentines 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 cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Chocolate chips (optional); Maple syrup and fresh berries for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love starting my Valentine's Day with these Chocolate Banana Pancakes. The combination of rich cocoa and sweet bananas creates a delightful breakfast experience that feels both indulgent and energizing. Every bite is fluffy and fragrant, and I enjoy topping them with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s a simple yet impressive way to celebrate love while satisfying my sweet tooth. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making it easy to enjoy a special morning even on a busy day.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:46:16.447Z

When I first made these pancakes, I was blown away by how easy they were, yet how luxurious they tasted. The bananas add natural sweetness which perfectly complements the chocolate, creating a rich yet balanced flavor. I remember the joy on my loved ones' faces as they took their first bites. It’s a memory I cherish!

One tip that I found particularly helpful is to let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. This allows the baking powder to activate and makes the pancakes even fluffier. I’ll never skip that step again!

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a hint of banana sweetness
Fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for a romantic breakfast or brunch

      

Perfecting the Pancake Batter

When making pancake batter, achieving the right consistency is crucial. You want the batter to be thick yet pourable—similar to a heavy cream. If it feels too runny, you can add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it thickens up. Keep in mind, lumps are fine; they contribute to the pancakes' fluffy texture, so don't overmix. A gentle stirring technique combines the wet and dry ingredients without breaking down that all-important fluffiness.

Letting the batter rest for about 5-10 minutes can enhance texture further. This short resting period allows the flour to absorb the liquid fully, resulting in a more tender pancake. During this time, preheat your non-stick skillet; this ensures the pancakes cook evenly—a must for achieving that perfect golden brown hue.

Cooking Technique for Fluffy Pancakes

To cook the pancakes, ensure your skillet is at the right temperature—medium heat is usually ideal. Too hot, and the pancakes will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. A simple test is to sprinkle a drop of water on the skillet; it should dance and evaporate quickly but not smoke. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake, and don't rush to flip. Wait for bubbles to form on the surface; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

If you want chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle them on top of the batter right after pouring it. This ensures they melt nicely into the pancakes as they cook. When flipping, use a wide spatula to easily slide under the pancake and ensure a quick lift without breaking it apart.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious pancakes:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
Chocolate chips (optional)
Maple syrup and fresh berries for serving

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smooth pancake-making experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly fluffy pancakes:

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Prepare Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. It's okay if there are a few lumps; avoid overmixing.

Cook Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips on top.

Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and fresh berries on top.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a delightful breakfast that’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or using a bit of vanilla extract in your wet ingredients. For a healthier twist, you could substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Banana Pancakes shine on their own, but they pair wonderfully with toppings. Consider adding whipped cream for a sumptuous touch, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of freshness that balances the rich chocolate flavor.

A sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation, making it feel even more special for Valentine's Day. For an adult twist, a splash of vanilla or almond extract in the batter can deepen flavors, making your pancakes feel even more gourmet.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to save time on a busy morning, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance. Mixing the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and storing them in an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to a week. This way, you can simply add the wet ingredients when you're ready to cook.

Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking; they can last up to three months. Reheat frozen pancakes directly in the toaster or microwave when you're ready to enjoy them again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before cooking.

→ Can I freeze the pancakes?

Absolutely! Once cooled, stack them with parchment paper in between and store in an airtight container in the freezer. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave.

→ What's the best way to store leftover pancakes?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly wrapped or in an airtight container.

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, feel free to use any milk of your choice, including non-dairy alternatives such as almond, oat, or coconut milk.