Yes. I went there. Why not? I have a freezer drawer full of breast milk and a baby who won’t take a bottle anymore. I wasn’t about to let all of those hours spent attached to a breast pump go to waste! When I saw recipes for breast milk pancakes floating around, I decided to improve on the idea, with 100% organic whole wheat and banana.
They turned out light and fluffy, with just the right natural sweetness from the banana. You really wouldn’t know they were made with breast milk (yes, I tried them). I made these small so I could give my son a whole one to eat (and play with). He loved having his own pancake to eat, and I felt good he was eating something packed with good ingredients for breakfast.
This recipe makes about 15 3-4” or 30 1-2″ pancakes. They freeze well and stay moist because of the banana. I like to heat one up a tiny bit in the toaster oven if they are cold.
Ingredients
- Use organic ingredients if possible.
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (about 1/3 cup-see substitutions below)
- 1 cup breast milk (or whole milk)
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons melted coconut oil (or butter)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Butter for greasing the griddle
Additions:
- Cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, oats, chia seeds, almond butter, raisins
Banana substitutions:
- Mashed sweet potato, apple sauce, pureed mango (use 1/3 cup instead of the banana)
Preparation Method
In a mixing bowl, combine mashed banana, milk, egg and coconut oil. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and baking soda. Whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until barely mixed. You should still see some small lumps.
Using a griddle heated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or a frying pan on medium-low heat, grease the surface with a small amount of butter. Add the batter, approximately 1-2 tablespoons for each pancake.
Cook for a few minutes, until you see small bubbles forming on the surface. Flip each pancake and cook for a few minutes more. Keep an eye on them and remove from the pan as soon as they are golden brown.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of breast milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute breast milk with whole milk if you prefer.
What other fruits can I use in place of bananas?
You can experiment with mashed sweet potato, apple sauce, or pureed mango. Just use the same amount as the banana in the recipe.
Can I add other ingredients to this pancake recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, oats, chia seeds, almond butter, or raisins to customize the flavor.
How can I store these pancakes?
These pancakes freeze well and stay moist because of the banana. You can heat them up slightly in the toaster oven if they are cold.
Can I use a different type of flour?
The recipe calls for whole wheat flour, but you can experiment with other types of flour. Just note that the texture and taste might vary.
Can I use oil instead of butter for greasing the griddle?
Yes, you can use a small amount of oil to grease the griddle if you prefer not to use butter.
Can adults eat these pancakes too?
Yes, adults can enjoy these pancakes as well. The natural sweetness from the banana and the light, fluffy texture make them a delicious breakfast option for everyone.
Although, I recommend you leave the breast milk for your baby and make yourself a hearty dinner, a traditional Caribbean dish, goat stew, which is a delightful medley of flavors with tender meat and rich spices.
Can I use this recipe for waffles?
While this recipe is intended for pancakes, you could try using it for waffles. Just be aware that the texture may differ.
Can I use this recipe for a baby who is allergic to wheat?
If your baby is allergic to wheat, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend. However, always consult with a pediatrician before introducing new foods to a baby with allergies.
Can I use this recipe to make mini pancakes?
Yes, you can make mini pancakes with this recipe. Just use less batter for each pancake.
Final Words
In conclusion, this recipe is a versatile and nutritious option for breakfast. It allows for a lot of creativity and personalization. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your own twist, these pancakes are sure to be a hit with both babies and adults.
Enjoy this delightful start to your day!
