3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes (Baby-Led Weaning) Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a simple, wholesome, and absolutely delicious breakfast option for your little one, look no further than these 3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes (Baby-Led Weaning). They are soft, naturally sweet, and packed with gentle flavors that babies adore, making them an ideal first pancake experience. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and nourishing, perfectly suited for introducing your baby to solid foods while delighting the whole family at the breakfast table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These pancakes keep it delightfully uncomplicated by focusing on just three basic ingredients, each playing an essential role in bringing the recipe to life. Their simplicity means you can whip up these tender treats anytime, knowing every bite serves up nourishment and natural taste.

• Ripe bananas: They provide natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring the pancakes stay soft and baby-friendly without any added sugar.
• Eggs: Acting as the perfect binder, eggs give the pancakes structure and a lovely fluffy texture.
• Rolled oats (ground into oat flour): This ingredient adds subtle nutty undertones and a wholesome body, while keeping the pancakes gluten-free if you choose certified oats.
• Oil or butter for cooking: A light coating of your preferred fat, like avocado oil, helps to cook the pancakes evenly and adds a subtle richness without overpowering their mild flavors.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes (Baby-Led Weaning)

Step 1: Prepare the oat flour

Start by grinding your rolled oats into a fine flour using a food processor or blender. This step is key because oat flour blends smoothly into the batter, giving the pancakes a tender texture that’s easy for babies to chew and digest.

Step 2: Mash the bananas and mix in eggs

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until silky and smooth—this natural sweetness makes every bite irresistible. Then whisk in the eggs until fully combined, forming a beautifully runny mixture ready to be transformed into pancake batter.

Step 3: Combine oat flour with the banana-egg mixture

Gently fold the oat flour into the banana and egg blend until a thick, smooth batter forms. The batter should hold together well but remain soft, which ensures the pancakes cook evenly while staying tender on the inside.

Step 4: Cook the pancakes

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with your cooking fat of choice, like avocado oil. Pour small rounds of batter onto the pan—smaller sizes make it easier for little hands to grasp. Cook each pancake gently for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a light golden brown, which indicates they’re perfectly cooked without drying out.

Step 5: Let cool and get ready to serve

Once cooked, allow the pancakes to cool slightly so they become just the right temperature for your baby to enjoy safely. Their soft, fluffy texture makes them an ideal hand-held finger food for encouraging self-feeding and exploration.

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes (Baby-Led Weaning)

Garnishes

To keep things simple yet exciting, consider adding a light sprinkle of cinnamon or a tiny dollop of natural yogurt on top. These add flavor without overwhelming the gentle sweetness of the pancakes, and they introduce new tastes in a baby-friendly way.

Side Dishes

Pair these pancakes with easy-to-eat soft fruits like mashed berries, diced peaches, or even a smooth applesauce. These sides complement the pancakes’ flavors perfectly while helping your little one experience a wide variety of textures and nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a few pancakes for a mini “cake” that sparks curiosity and fun at mealtime. Alternatively, you can cut them into fun shapes using small cookie cutters or arrange them with colorful fruit for an inviting breakfast plate that’s visually appealing and full of love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extra pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This makes for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack that stays fresh and tasty.

Freezing

These pancakes freeze beautifully! Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months, making them a lifesaver for busy mornings.

Reheating

To warm your pancakes, gently toast them or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor that your baby will love.

FAQs

Can I substitute eggs in the 3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes (Baby-Led Weaning)?

While eggs play an important role in binding the ingredients together, you can experiment with alternatives like flaxseed or chia seed gel for egg-free versions. However, the texture might be slightly different, so keep that in mind when introducing it to your baby.

Are these pancakes safe for babies under 1 year old?

Yes, these pancakes are designed specifically with baby-led weaning in mind, focusing on natural ingredients and manageable textures. Always ensure your baby is developmentally ready and supervised while eating.

Can I add any other ingredients to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of vanilla extract, or even finely grated apple to introduce exciting yet gentle flavors that your baby will adore.

What oil is best for cooking these pancakes?

Avocado oil is a great choice because of its mild flavor and healthy fats, but you can also use light olive oil, coconut oil, or lightly buttered pans depending on your preference and your baby’s dietary needs.

How big should the pancakes be for baby-led weaning?

It’s best to make small, palm-sized pancakes or even mini pancakes about 2-3 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for little hands to grasp and self-feed confidently.

Final Thoughts

These 3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes (Baby-Led Weaning) have quickly become a beloved staple in my household, and I hope they will in yours too! They offer a fantastic way to introduce your baby to new flavors and textures with minimal fuss, maximum love, and naturally delightful taste. Give them a try and watch mealtime turn into a joyful, messy adventure full of smiles and satisfaction.

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