Valentine Breakfast Chocolate Banana Pancakes

Name: Valentine 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; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 large ripe banana, mashed; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Maple syrup; Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries); Chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Favorites

I love starting Valentine's Day with a special breakfast, and these chocolate banana pancakes are my go-to. The combination of ripe bananas and rich cocoa creates a deliciously decadent treat that makes the morning feel festive. Each bite bursts with flavor, topped off with syrup and fresh berries that elevate the experience. They're easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy, making them perfect for a cozy morning at home or a special occasion. Trust me, once you try these, they will become a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:41:34.458Z

When I first decided to combine bananas and chocolate in pancakes, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. However, the flavors meld beautifully, and the bananas add natural sweetness, making syrup optional. I love how the pancakes fluff up while absorbing the chocolate, resulting in a rich and indulgent breakfast. This recipe also allows flexibility; I often swap in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.

After perfecting the technique, I found that letting the batter rest enhances the fluffiness of the pancakes. I recommend watching them closely while cooking—the edges should look set before flipping. Serving them with fresh berries on top not only adds color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

Why You'll Love These Pancakes
Decadent chocolate flavor paired with ripe bananas
Fluffy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Perfectly sweet with just a hint of indulgence

Mastering the Pancake Batter

Achieving the perfect pancake batter is vital for fluffy results. When mixing the wet ingredients, ensure the mashed banana is smooth, as lumps can create uneven texture in the pancakes. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just mixed. Over-mixing can lead to tough pancakes due to gluten development. Aim for a thick, pourable consistency, where small lumps are acceptable, as they will dissipate during cooking.

Feel free to adjust the sugar to match your sweetness preference, especially if serving with syrup and fresh berries. If you prefer a richer chocolate flavor, consider increasing the cocoa powder slightly, but balance it with a little extra sugar to avoid bitterness. The goal is to maintain the lightness while enhancing the chocolatey profile without overwhelming the banana's natural sweetness.

Cooking Techniques for Fluffy Pancakes

The temperature of your skillet is crucial for pancake success. Preheat the skillet to medium heat but be ready to adjust based on how the pancakes perform. A good test is to sprinkle a drop of water on the surface; it should sizzle and evaporate almost immediately. Cook each pancake for about 2-3 minutes on one side until you see bubbles forming on the surface, indicating it's ready to flip. The second side usually cooks a bit faster, around 1-2 minutes.

If your pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to allow them to cook through without burning. Using a non-stick skillet or griddle can aid in even cooking and easy flipping. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches, maintaining space between pancakes, so they puff up nicely and allow air to circulate around them.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful pancakes.

For the Pancakes

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

For Serving

Maple syrup
Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
Chocolate chips (optional)

Ensure everything is ready so you can easily mix and cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your chocolate banana pancakes.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay.

Cook Pancakes

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until browned.

Serve

Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and chocolate chips if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pancakes!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter or top them with whipped cream for a luxurious finish.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the presentation, stack your pancakes with layers of fresh berries in between. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries not only add vibrant color but provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. For an extra indulgence, drizzle some melted chocolate or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before serving, making it visually appealing and even more decadent.

Pair these pancakes with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt on the side for added creaminess. You might also consider a sprinkling of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft pancakes beautifully. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a lovely finishing touch, giving your Valentine breakfast a special flair.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover pancakes, you can store them easily. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy from trapped steam. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage. They freeze well, making them a convenient breakfast option.

To reheat, a toaster or toaster oven works best for preserving their fluffy texture. Simply toast them for a couple of minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds, but be cautious, as they may become a bit chewy. Serve them fresh with toppings right after reheating to maintain that delightful first-bite experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the batter in advance?

Yes! You can make the batter a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.

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

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor, but it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love serving these pancakes with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat.