Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes – The Best Fluffy and Easy Recipe for Breakfast Lovers

Banana chocolate chip pancakes are that perfect kind of breakfast—comforting, sweet, fluffy, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat without going overboard. Whether you’re whipping up a cozy weekend brunch or need a quick weekday breakfast that’ll make everyone smile, this classic combo of ripe bananas and melty chocolate chips always delivers. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from ingredients and mixing tips to creative add-ins, freezing instructions, and even some internet-famous versions (yes, Kylie Jenner’s too).

You’ll also find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions, like why chocolate chips sometimes sink, how to get that golden brown texture, and what toppings will really level up your pancake game. So, grab those ripe bananas and let’s dive in.

Check out Crunchy or Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies? Discover the Difference if you’re in the mood for another chocolatey breakfast treat!

Why Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes Are a Breakfast Favorite

The sweet combo: Why bananas and chocolate chips work so well together

Bananas are naturally sweet and soft, while chocolate chips add just the right amount of richness and contrast. This pairing isn’t just popular by accident—it hits multiple flavor notes: sweet, fruity, creamy, and indulgent. Bananas also caramelize a bit when cooked, intensifying their flavor and making them the ideal base for pancakes. Add chocolate chips into the mix, and you’ve got a beautiful contrast between the gooey chocolate and the fluffy banana batter.

Banana chocolate chip pancakes aren’t just kid-friendly—they appeal to grown-ups too. Whether you’re six or sixty, the warm scent of banana and melting chocolate on a skillet is basically irresistible.

A feel-good breakfast: Energy-boosting benefits of bananas and chocolate

Sure, pancakes are comfort food, but banana chocolate chip pancakes can also give you a bit of a morning boost. Bananas are packed with potassium, fiber, and natural sugars that help sustain energy levels. Chocolate—especially dark chocolate—contains antioxidants and mood-boosting compounds like theobromine and serotonin triggers.

So not only are you satisfying a craving, but you’re actually helping your body start the day with some fuel. That’s a win-win breakfast situation. Want to pack more nutrients into your morning? Toss in chia seeds, oats, or switch to whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Looking for inspiration? Try The Best Pistachio Muffin Recipe for another flavor-packed breakfast idea.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Choosing the right bananas: Ripe vs. overripe

When it comes to banana chocolate chip pancakes, the bananas you use can make or break the flavor. Ripe bananas with a few brown spots are ideal—they’re soft, naturally sweet, and easy to mash into your batter. Overripe bananas, on the other hand, can give your pancakes an even stronger banana flavor, but they may also make the batter too moist or mushy if you don’t balance them with flour.

Pro Tip: If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can quickly ripen them by baking them (in the peel) at 300°F for about 15 minutes. They’ll soften and sweeten up in no time.

A single large banana is usually enough for one batch of 6–8 pancakes. If you love the banana flavor, feel free to use two, but reduce the milk slightly so your batter doesn’t get too runny.

The importance of chocolate chips: Dark, milk, or mini chips?

The chocolate you choose makes a huge difference in both taste and texture. Dark chocolate chips offer a rich contrast to the sweetness of bananas, while milk chocolate adds more sweetness and creaminess. Semi-sweet chips strike a balance that works well with most palates. Mini chips spread more evenly throughout the batter, giving you melty chocolate in every bite.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Avoid adding the chips too early while mixing or they’ll sink to the bottom. Instead, fold them gently into the batter at the end, or even sprinkle them directly onto the pancakes while they’re cooking on the griddle.

Want to keep your breakfast options fresh? Don’t miss our Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Easy & Satisfying for a savory balance to your sweet mornings.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Mixing the batter: What to avoid

The key to fluffy banana chocolate chip pancakes lies in how you mix the batter. Overmixing is the most common mistake. When you stir too much, you activate the gluten in the flour, which can make your pancakes tough and dense instead of light and airy.

Here’s the golden rule: Mix until just combined—a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Basic Ingredient List (Serves 4–6 pancakes):

• 1 large ripe banana (mashed)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 egg
• ¾ cup milk (any type)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
• ⅓ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or mini preferred)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
2. Add wet ingredients: egg, milk, vanilla, and melted butter. Mix until well blended.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
4. Add dry to wet, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula or spoon.
6. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to let the baking powder activate.

Looking for more comfort food? Learn more about Cabbage in Chicken Soup—a hearty dish to complement your sweet breakfast meals.

Cooking tips for fluffier pancakes every time

Now that your batter is ready, let’s talk about cooking technique. A non-stick skillet or a griddle is best. Preheat it on medium-low heat. Too hot, and the pancakes will burn on the outside while staying raw in the middle.

Here’s how to nail the perfect pancake:

• Lightly grease the pan with butter or spray oil.
• Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake.
• Wait until bubbles form on the surface (about 2–3 minutes), then flip.
• Cook for another 1–2 minutes on the other side.

Pro Tip: Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while finishing the rest. This prevents them from getting soggy and keeps them hot for serving.

PART 4: Tips and Tricks to Customize Your Pancakes

Gluten-free or vegan options

Whether you’ve got dietary needs or just want to switch things up, banana chocolate chip pancakes are super flexible. Here’s how to tweak the recipe without sacrificing flavor or fluff:

For Gluten-Free Pancakes

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill work great.
• Add ¼ tsp of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it.
• Consider almond flour or oat flour, though you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly for the right consistency.

For Vegan Pancakes

• Swap the egg with:
  • A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, let sit 5 mins)
  • Or mashed banana (use ½ banana in addition to the one already in the batter)
• Use plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat.
• Replace melted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Bonus: Vegan pancakes tend to be super moist and tender thanks to the banana, and the chocolate chips (just check the label) can be vegan too!

Fun add-ins: Nuts, cinnamon, or peanut butter?

Ready to level up your banana chocolate chip pancakes? Try these irresistible add-ins:

You can mix these straight into the batter or sprinkle them on top while cooking. Cinnamon in particular works wonders with the banana’s natural sweetness, and it’s a simple touch that adds complexity to your flavor profile.

Discover great ideas like The Best Pistachio Muffin Recipe to keep your breakfast rotation exciting and full of flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Pancake Problems

Why do my pancakes come out flat?

Nothing’s more disappointing than expecting a tall, fluffy stack—and getting thin, floppy disks instead. Here’s why that happens and how to fix it:

1. Overmixing the batter: Stirring too much develops gluten, which leads to dense, chewy pancakes. Mix just until the ingredients come together, lumps and all.
2. Old leavening agents: Baking powder loses its power over time. Always check the expiration date and test freshness (mix a little in warm water—if it fizzes, it’s good).
3. Batter too thin: Too much liquid (especially from overly ripe bananas) can flatten your batter. If that happens, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour to thicken things up.
4. Pan too cold or too hot: Medium heat is the sweet spot. Too low and your pancakes won’t rise; too high and they cook before rising fully.

Pro tip: Let your batter sit for 5–10 minutes before cooking. This gives the baking powder time to activate and makes your pancakes puffier.

Chocolate chips sinking? Here’s why

This is a common issue, especially if you’re using regular-sized or heavy chocolate chips. If they sink to the bottom, your pancakes may end up with uneven flavor and texture. Here’s how to prevent it:

• Toss chips in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them “stick” better within the mixture and resist sinking.
• Fold them in gently, preferably after mixing the batter, not during. Overmixing loosens the batter, making it easier for chips to drop.
• Sprinkle chips on top while the pancakes are cooking, rather than mixing into the batter at all. This keeps them visible and gooey right on the surface.

Also, if you’re doubling the recipe, stir the batter before each scoop—chocolate chips tend to settle as they sit.

Want more fast fixes for your meals? Check out Quick & Easy Shrimp and Scallop Recipes for Every Meal for quick dinner inspiration that’s as hassle-free as these pancake tips.

Making Pancakes Ahead of Time or Freezing Them

Best storage practices

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just have a few leftovers, banana chocolate chip pancakes store beautifully if done right. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Short-term storage (2–3 days):

• Let pancakes cool completely before storing. Trapped heat = moisture = soggy pancakes.
• Place in an airtight container or wrap in foil.
• Refrigerate and reheat as needed.

Refrigerated pancakes tip: Put parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking. This saves time when reheating and keeps the texture intact.

How to reheat pancakes without losing fluff

You want that just-cooked texture—not rubbery, chewy leftovers. Here are the best reheating methods:

Freezing Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Want to stock your freezer with quick breakfasts? These pancakes freeze like a dream.

1. Let them cool completely.
2. Layer with parchment paper between each pancake.
3. Place in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
4. Freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, pop them straight from the freezer into the microwave or toaster. No thawing needed!

Don’t miss our The Best Honey Mustard Marinade for Tender Chicken for another make-ahead favorite—perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners.

Banana Chocolate Chip Pancake Variations from Around the Web

Kylie Jenner’s banana pancakes: Are they worth the hype?

Kylie Jenner once shared her super simple banana pancake recipe on social media, and it went viral for a reason—it’s incredibly easy, healthy, and only uses two ingredients: bananas and eggs. But how does it stack up to traditional banana chocolate chip pancakes?

Her version:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Mix and cook like regular pancakes

Pros:

• High protein, gluten-free, dairy-free
• Quick and low-effort (perfect for mornings in a rush)

Cons:

• Lacks the fluffiness of a batter-based pancake
• Doesn’t hold chocolate chips well (they tend to sink)

How to upgrade Kylie’s recipe:
Add 1–2 tablespoons of oat flour or almond flour to thicken it slightly. Then fold in mini chocolate chips and a dash of vanilla extract for flavor. You’ll get the healthy benefits and better texture.

Global takes: Filipino, Indian, and British twists

Pancakes may be an American breakfast staple, but banana and chocolate make appearances in breakfast dishes all over the world. Here are some creative ways to reinvent your stack:

If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping your usual batter for these cultural variations. It’s a great way to add new textures and flavors to your morning routine while still enjoying your favorite combo: bananas and chocolate.

Want to explore more traditional comfort food twists? Discover great ideas like Smothered Chicken and Rice – The Ultimate Comfort Food for Every Table for your next savory dinner.

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

Syrups, fruits, and extras that elevate your stack

The beauty of banana chocolate chip pancakes is that they’re already packed with flavor—but the right toppings can take them from great to unforgettable. Whether you’re aiming for extra sweetness, crunch, or freshness, here are some mouthwatering options:

For a dessert-style twist, go wild with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chocolate syrup. For a healthier spin, pair your pancakes with Greek yogurt and chia seeds. You can also make a banana-maple syrup by blending ripe banana into warmed maple syrup—delish and unique!

Sweet or savory sides to serve with pancakes

Don’t let the pancakes hog the whole plate. Pairing them with the right side dish can create a well-rounded breakfast (or brunch). Some solid options:

• Turkey sausage: A leaner protein that balances out the sweet flavors
• Scrambled eggs: Keeps the meal protein-rich and satisfying
• Avocado toast: Surprising, but a creamy, savory counterpoint
• Fruit salad: Refreshing and adds variety to your plate

For larger brunches, offer a pancake bar with toppings and sides for a DIY spread everyone will enjoy.

Looking for more home-cooked flavor? Check out Mouth-Watering Smoked Chicken Breast Recipe: Tender & Flavorful for a protein-packed lunch or dinner after your sweet breakfast.

Nutrition Info and Healthier Swaps

Calorie count and macro breakdown

Banana chocolate chip pancakes may sound like a full-blown dessert, but with the right balance, they can fit into a healthy breakfast—especially if you watch portions and ingredients.

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (2 medium pancakes):

• Calories: ~280–320
• Protein: 6–8g
• Carbs: 35–40g
• Sugar: 12–18g (depending on chocolate & bananas)
• Fat: 10–12g

The biggest calorie contributors? Chocolate chips and butter. But they also provide satiety, so you’ll likely feel full longer than if you just had toast or cereal.

Want to reduce sugar? Opt for dark chocolate chips or use mashed banana as your only sweetener—skip the added sugar in the batter entirely.

Substituting sugar or flour for a healthier version

Here are simple swaps that can turn your pancakes into a nutrient-packed start to your day:

You can even make protein banana pancakes by adding 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder and reducing the flour slightly. That’s a go-to trick for gym-goers and fitness-focused breakfasts.

FAQs – Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes

How do you make Kylie Jenner’s banana pancakes?

Kylie’s version of banana pancakes is ultra-simple and naturally gluten-free. All you need is:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 eggs

Mash the banana in a bowl, beat the eggs, then mix them together. Cook on a non-stick pan over medium heat. While her version doesn’t include flour or chocolate chips, you can jazz it up by:

• Adding 1 tbsp of almond or oat flour for structure
• Folding in mini chocolate chips right before cooking
• Drizzling with maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top

It’s a healthier, protein-rich alternative—great if you’re short on time or avoiding gluten.

Do banana and chocolate go together?

Absolutely. This combo is a classic for a reason. The creamy, sweet flavor of bananas blends perfectly with the rich, slightly bitter taste of chocolate. Whether in smoothies, muffins, or pancakes, bananas and chocolate create a balance of sweet and indulgent that appeals to both kids and adults. Dark chocolate especially adds depth and enhances banana’s natural sweetness.

Can I add chocolate chips to pancake mix?

Yes—and you totally should! Just remember these tips:

• Wait until the batter is fully mixed before adding the chips
• Gently fold them in to avoid overmixing
• For even distribution, use mini chips
• Toss them in a little flour before folding in to keep them from sinking

You can also sprinkle them directly onto the pancake once it’s in the skillet for picture-perfect results.

Why did the chocolate chips sink in my banana bread?

This is a common baking issue. Chocolate chips sink because the batter is too thin or they’re too heavy. Here’s how to fix it:

• Toss chips in a tablespoon of flour before adding them
• Make sure your batter isn’t overly liquidy (reduce wet ingredients slightly)
• Don’t overmix—thinner batter won’t hold chips in place
• Use mini chips or chopped chocolate for better balance

These tips apply to pancake batter, too!

🎯 Conclusion: Time to Flip the Best Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes Ever

Banana chocolate chip pancakes are more than just a sweet breakfast—they’re a feel-good, flavor-packed way to start your day. With the right bananas, a simple mixing method, and your favorite toppings, you can whip up a stack that’s equal parts comforting and crave-worthy. Whether you’re following Kylie Jenner’s two-ingredient version, going vegan or gluten-free, or making them for a hungry weekend crowd, this guide gives you every reason to go bananas with your next breakfast.

Looking for inspiration? Try Crunchy or Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies? Discover the Difference for a sweet follow-up snack idea.