Banana Walnut Pancakes – A Nourishing Breakfast for Brain & Body
There’s something so comforting about pancakes on a slow morning — but these Banana Walnut Pancakes are more than just cozy comfort food. They’re filled with nutrient-dense ingredients that support your energy, mood, and focus, making them a delicious way to start the day.
With ripe bananas for natural sweetness, omega-3-rich walnuts, and protein from Greek yogurt and eggs, thUnlike store-bought pancake mixes, which often rely on refined flour and sugar, this recipe uses simple, whole-food ingredients to give you a balanced meal that nourishes both your body and your mind.
Why These Pancakes Are Good for You
✨ Bananas – Naturally sweet and packed with potassium, bananas support healthy blood pressure, aid digestion, and provide slow-digesting carbohydrates for steady energy. They also contain vitamin B6, which plays a role in serotonin production — important for mood balance.
✨ Walnuts – These brain-shaped nuts really live up to their look! Walnuts are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to improved focus, memory, and reduced inflammation. They also add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats to keep you full longer.
✨ Greek Yogurt – A protein powerhouse, Greek yogurt helps stabilize blood sugar, supports muscle repair, and promotes gut health thanks to probiotics. It also keeps these pancakes moist and fluffy without the need for excess oil.
✨ Eggs & Flax – Eggs provide choline, a nutrient vital for brain health, while flax adds extra omega-3s and fiber. Together, they help create structure and richness in the pancakes.
✨ Cinnamon & Vanilla – These natural flavor boosters not only taste amazing but also add antioxidants. Cinnamon, in particular, has blood sugar-stabilizing benefits.
Banana Walnut Pancake Recipe
Ingredients
2 overripe bananas, mashed
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
3 eggs
1 tbsp ground flax
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
1 ½ cups flour (I used a gluten-free flour mix)
1 tsp baking powder
¼ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
In a large bowl, mash bananas until smooth.
Whisk in Greek yogurt, eggs, flax, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
Add flour and baking powder, stirring gently until just incorporated. Fold in walnuts.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with oil.
Pour batter in ¼ cup portions and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.
Serve warm with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a spoonful of almond butter.
Tips & Variations
Gluten-Free: Swap in a gluten-free flour blend (I used one here and they turned out fluffy).
Nut-Free: Substitute walnuts with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Extra Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder (reduce flour slightly if needed).
Meal Prep: Freeze pancakes with parchment between each one. Reheat in a toaster or skillet for quick weekday breakfasts.
Why You’ll Love These Pancakes
Quick to whip up (perfect for weekends or busy mornings)
Balanced with protein, healthy fats, and carbs
Kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable
A brain-boosting breakfast that still feels like a treat
If you’re looking for more wholesome breakfast ideas that fuel your focus and mood, try my Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats.
💚 Did you make this recipe? Tag me @growingmindsnutrition on Instagram so I can see your stack!
