These carrot banana pancakes are a simple, naturally sweet breakfast made with ripe banana, freshly grated carrot, and egg. They’re soft in the middle, golden on the outside, and delicious with a drizzle of honey. Serve them warm for breakfast, brunch, or an easy snack.
The batter comes together quickly, and you can cook the pancakes in a frying pan using just a little oil or butter. A spoonful of oats or flour helps the mixture hold together, making the pancakes easier to flip.
Recipe at a glance
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Makes: About 6–8 small pancakes
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 small carrot, finely grated
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons quick oats or all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder, optional
- A pinch of cinnamon, optional
- A little butter or oil, for cooking
- Honey or maple syrup, for serving
How to make carrot banana pancakes
- Mash the banana. Peel the banana and mash it in a bowl with a fork until mostly smooth.
- Prepare the carrot. Finely grate the carrot. If it seems very wet, gently press it with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the batter. Add the grated carrot and egg to the mashed banana. Stir until combined. Add the oats or flour, plus the baking powder and cinnamon if using. Mix again and let the batter rest for about 2 minutes.
- Heat the pan. Warm a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil.
- Cook the pancakes. Spoon small portions of batter into the pan, leaving space between them. Cook for about 2–3 minutes, until the edges look set and the bottoms are golden.
- Flip and finish cooking. Carefully flip each pancake and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Lower the heat if they brown too quickly.
- Serve. Stack the pancakes on a plate and finish with honey, maple syrup, or your favorite topping.
Tips for soft, golden pancakes
- Use a ripe banana with plenty of brown spots for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Finely grate the carrot so it softens as the pancakes cook.
- Keep the pancakes small; they’re easier to flip and less likely to break.
- Cook over medium-low heat. A pan that is too hot can brown the outside before the middle is cooked.
- If the batter feels too loose to scoop, stir in another spoonful of oats or flour.
- For a smoother batter, blend the oats into oat flour before adding them.
Easy variations
Try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or raisins for extra texture. A little vanilla extract or ground cinnamon also pairs nicely with the banana and carrot. For a dairy-free version, cook the pancakes in a neutral oil instead of butter and serve them with maple syrup.
Serving ideas
These pancakes are lovely on their own with a little honey. You can also serve them with sliced banana, yogurt, berries, nut butter, or a dusting of cinnamon. For a fuller breakfast, add fresh fruit and a side of yogurt.
Storing and reheating
Let leftover pancakes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until warm. You can also freeze the cooled pancakes in a freezer-safe container, with parchment paper between layers, for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the pancakes soon after mixing. The banana can darken, and the oats may absorb moisture and thicken the batter as it sits.
Why are my pancakes falling apart?
The batter may be too wet or the pancakes may be too large. Add a little more oats or flour, make smaller pancakes, and wait until the edges are set before flipping.
Can I skip the baking powder?
Yes. The pancakes will be a little less fluffy but should still cook well.
What can I use instead of oats?
All-purpose flour works well. Add it gradually until the batter is thick enough to scoop.
Final note
These easy carrot banana pancakes are a tasty way to make a simple breakfast feel special. Serve them warm with honey, share them with family, and save the recipe for your next pancake morning.















