by Pancake Bites are perfect for those busy mornings when flipping pancakes isn't in the cards. Made in a mini muffin pan, these mini pancakes are not only cute but also include fruity goodness for extra flavour and texture.
Pancakes are often a favourite among little ones! And if your kids love them, be sure to check out our collection of pancake recipes, including Scotch Pancakes, Apple Pancakes, Weetabix Pancakes, Strawberry Pancakes, Spinach Pancakes, BLW Pancakes, Baby Banana Pancakes, and our savoury Lentil Pancakes and Chickpea Pancakes.
But if you don't have the time or energy to stand flipping pancakes, this easy Pancake Bites recipe is for you! Made by baking pancake batter in a mini muffin tin, the oven does all the work. It's based on a banana oat pancake recipe we love, making it both wholesome and delicious
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Reasons to Love this Recipe
- Hands-free cooking - No flipping, just let the oven do the work.
- Healthier batter - A nutritious option for little ones (and the whole family!).
- Freezer-friendly - Perfect for batch cooking for a great grab and go snack or quick breakfast.
- Customisable - Mix in different add-ins for variety.
Ingredients Information (and Alternative Suggestions)
- Bananas - Ripe with brown spots for natural sweetness.
- Eggs - Help bind the batter and add structure.
- Milk of choice - Use dairy or non-dairy milk
- Vanilla extract - Adds a hint of sweetness and flavor.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats - The base of the batter.
- Baking powder - Gives the pancake bites a light and fluffy texture.
- Ground cinnamon - Adds warmth and extra flavor (optional but recommended!).
- Optional add-ins: e.g blueberries, raspberries or choc chips.
- Oil / Nonstick Spray - For greasing the muffin tin to prevent sticking.
See recipe card for quantities.
Step by Step Instructions (with Images)
- Step 1: Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high until completely smooth.
- Step 2: Grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or oil. Pour the batter into each compartment, filling them about two-thirds full.
- Step 3: Top with your favourite toppings, such as blueberries, raspberries, banana pieces, or mini chocolate chips (choc chips not recommended for babies)
- Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, or until set and lightly golden brown.
Top tips
- Grease well - Generously grease your muffin tray to prevent sticking. This works better than using muffin liners.
- Use mini muffin trays - This recipe hasn't been tested in standard muffin trays, and the cooking time will vary.
- Don't overload toppings - Too many mix-ins can make the bites soggy. Stick to one raspberry, blueberry, or a couple of choc chips per bite. (Remember, the muffin tin wells are small-less is more!)
- Boost the protein - Add a spoonful of nut butter to the batter or serve with Greek yogurt.
- Not overly sweet - Designed for babies and toddlers, these aren't very sweet. If you prefer a sweeter version, you can add 1-2 tablespoon of sugar (skip for under 2s).
Storage
- Refrigerate - Let the pancake bites cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freeze - Allow to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag or freezer safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Recipe FAQs
Once your baby has been exposed to a variety of flavours, these mini pancake bites can be offered from 6 months+, provided they have transitioned from purées and /or are following a baby-led weaning approach.
Things to Keep in Mind:
✔️ Allergies - This recipe contains dairy and eggs, both common allergens. Introduce each ingredient separately and monitor for any reactions. Oats are often cross-contaminated with gluten, so if serving to someone with celiac disease, choose certified gluten-free oats.
✔️ Sweet Toppings & Dips - Avoid syrups and honey. Instead, serve with soft fresh fruit pieces and plain yogurt for a naturally sweet, nutritious dip. Choose berries over choc chips for toppings.
For informational purposes only-each baby develops at their own pace. Make informed decisions for your child and consult a professional for personalised advice.
More Mini Muffin Tray Recipes
Looking for other recipes to make in a mini muffin tray? Try these:
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Pancake Bites
Equipment
- Mini Muffin Tray
Ingredients
- 2 medium bananas, ripe
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup (125ml) milk, of choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups (145g) old fashioned rolled oats
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional toppings
- blueberries, raspberries, strawberry pieces, banana pieces and/or choc chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C (fan) / (350°F) and grease a mini muffin tin well with cooking spray or oil.
- Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high until completely smooth.
- Pour the batter into each compartment of the muffin tray, filling them about two-thirds full.
- Top with your favourite toppings, such as blueberries, raspberries, banana pieces, or mini chocolate chips (choc chips not recommended for babies)
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Allow the pancake bites to cool in the tray for a few minutes before gently pushing them out from underneath.
Annie
Such a quick and simple recipe to make! And delicious too! My daughter helps with putting the toppings on. They’re quick and easy to grab breakfast/snacks
Amy Whiteford
Thanks Annie! Love that your daughter is getting involved 🙂