Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to surprise your loved ones with a breakfast that’s both wholesome and heartwarming.
These Heart-Shaped Whole Wheat Banana Pancakes are made with nutrient-rich whole wheat flour and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, offering a delightful start to the day.
Their subtle sweetness and fluffy texture pair beautifully with a drizzle of homemade praline sauce or a cup of freshly brewed French press coffee.
Shaping these pancakes into hearts is surprisingly easy with a simple cookie cutter, making them ideal for Valentine’s Day.
The bananas not only add flavor but also provide a boost of potassium, making these pancakes a feel-good choice to start your morning.
Pancakes have been a breakfast staple for centuries, but the rise of whole wheat recipes reflects a growing love for healthier options that don’t skimp on flavor.
Studies show that using whole grains can improve digestion and even help with weight management—a small but meaningful step toward better eating.
For a refreshing dessert to complement your meal, consider serving a scoop of homemade lemon sorbet.
Its zesty flavor and light texture provide a perfect balance to the richness of the pancakes.
What I Didn’t Expect About This Recipe?
- They were so easy to make: Heart shapes seemed intimidating at first, but the cookie-cutter trick made it effortless!
- They filled me up without feeling heavy: The whole wheat flour adds a satisfying heartiness while keeping things light.
- Kids loved them too: The fun shapes turned breakfast into an instant favorite with my little ones.
- The flavor was surprisingly rich: The bananas brought natural sweetness, eliminating the need for much-added sugar.
- They pair with just about anything: From praline sauce to fresh fruit, these pancakes are endlessly versatile.
Heart Shaped Whole Wheat Banana Pancakes Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Large skillet or griddle
- Heart-shaped pancake mold
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 1 cup unbleached or white whole wheat flour I did a blend of both
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large banana ripe, mashed well
- 1 cup 1% milk or almond milk
- 3 large egg whites
- 2 tsp oil
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix all dry ingredients together.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, egg white, oil, vanilla, and mashed bananas until smooth.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until no dry spots remain. Avoid over-mixing.
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
- If using a heart-shaped mold, spray it lightly, place it on the skillet, and pour in 1/4 cup of batter.
- Add 1 teaspoon of chocolate chips to each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form and edges set, then flip and cook the other side. Repeat with remaining batter.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 179.5kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28.5g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Sodium | 572mg |
Variations that Are a Perfect Bliss!
- Blueberry Banana Pancakes: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a burst of antioxidants and a pop of color.
- Nutty Banana Pancakes: Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped nuts—such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans—into the batter for added crunch and healthy fats.
- Spiced Banana Pancakes: Enhance the flavor with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg, or a pinch of both, for a warm, aromatic touch.
- Vegan Banana Pancakes: Replace the egg whites with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute and use plant-based milk to make these pancakes vegan-friendly.
- Chocolate Banana Pancakes: Mix in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Protein-Packed Banana Pancakes: Add 1/4 cup of protein powder to the dry ingredients to boost the protein content, making them a great post-workout meal.
