1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Mash the Banana: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. Make sure it’s very ripe for natural sweetness.
- Grate the Apple: Peel and grate the apple into fine shreds. Add the grated apple to the mashed banana.
2. Make the Pancake Batter:
- Blend the Oats: Place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor and pulse until they form a coarse oat flour. This gives the pancakes a smoother texture.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the oat flour, cinnamon, vanilla extract (if using), baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the banana-apple mixture. Stir until combined.
- Add Eggs and Milk: Crack the eggs into the bowl and pour in the milk. Mix everything together until you get a thick, slightly lumpy batter.
3. Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or butter to coat the surface.
- Pour the Batter: Scoop about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter into the skillet, using a spoon or measuring cup. Flatten the pancake slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Cook Until Golden: Cook each pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. You’ll know it’s time to flip when small bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
4. Serve the Pancakes:
- Stack and Serve: Once all the pancakes are cooked, stack them on a plate and serve warm.
- Optional Toppings: For added sweetness or flavor, top the pancakes with fresh fruit (like more sliced bananas or berries), a drizzle of nut butter, or a dollop of yogurt.
Tips for the Best Sugar-Free Pancakes:
- Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter the pancakes will be. Brown, spotty bananas work best.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently stir the batter to keep the pancakes fluffy and tender.
- Thin the Batter if Needed: If the batter seems too thick, add a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and protein.
- Extra Flavor: Sprinkle in a bit of nutmeg or ginger for a spiced pancake.
- Blueberry Pancakes: Mix in fresh or frozen blueberries for a burst of fruity flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Yogurt: Serve with a spoonful of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
- With Nut Butter: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds healthy fats and a rich flavor.
- With Fresh Fruit: Top with strawberries, blueberries, or extra banana slices for a colorful, nutritious garnish.
Conclusion
These Sugar-Free Apple Banana Oatmeal Pancakes are a delightful, healthy option for a guilt-free breakfast. Naturally sweetened with fruit and packed with fiber from oats, they’re a great way to start your day energized and satisfied. Simple to make and customizable with your favorite add-ins, these pancakes are sure to become a breakfast favorite in your kitchen!