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Ingredients
- 1 cup oats (old-fashioned or rolled for best results)
- 1 grated apple (use a naturally sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 large egg (beaten, or substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ripe banana (mashed)
- Coconut or olive oil (for frying)
Directions
- Prepare the Oats: In a large bowl, combine the oats and water. Allow this mixture to sit for a few minutes so the oats can absorb the water and soften. This step ensures a tender pancake texture.
- Prepare the Fruit: While the oats are softening, mash the banana until smooth and grate the apple. These add natural sweetness and moisture to the batter.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the mashed banana and grated apple to the oats. Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract, ensuring all ingredients are well-combined. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can make the pancakes dense.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a small amount of coconut or olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and set in the middle.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stack the pancakes on a plate, and enjoy them warm. They’re delicious on their own, but you can also top them with fresh fruit, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Pancakes
- Choose Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are key to the natural sweetness of these pancakes. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
- Adjust Consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a little more water or milk (dairy or non-dairy). If it’s too thin, add a sprinkle of oats until you reach the desired thickness.
Storage and Reheating
These pancakes are fantastic for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigeration: Place leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, allow the pancakes to cool completely. Stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.