This antioxidant-rich breakfast is heart-healthy, nutrient-packed, gluten-free and full of beneficial fibre! These heart-shaped banana buckwheat pancakes are the perfect treat for Valentine’s Day!
I know it’s been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but on Valentine’s Day I like to make it the most romantic meal of the day. There’s nothing that says ‘I love you’ more than heart-shaped pancakes and chocolate! Thanks to my heart-shaped cookie cutter I truly made these buckwheat pancakes with love.
But these are not just any pancakes. They are gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, but I promise, not fun-free! You have to trust me when I say they are healthy but still taste AH-MAZING!! The texture is fantastic – fluffy, soft, and the nutty taste of the buckwheat is paired perfectly with the banana flavour. Guys, it’s really a breakfast win! And if you feel like treating yourself even more, add chocolate chips to the batter and top with coconut cream or whipped cream. I mean, it’s Valentine’s Day so go ahead and overindulge a little.
Health Warning! These Banana Buckwheat Pancakes are…
Heart healthy
Antioxidant rich
High in fiber
Energy boosting
If you are not familiar with the superpowers of these tiny pyramids called buckwheat, then it’s about time we get you caught up with their impressive health benefits. Buckwheat is a powerhouse of nutrients! And while most people think of buckwheat as a grain, it’s actually a seed that is a gluten-free power food that can be used as a substitute for wheat. It is high in protein, and contains all eight of the essential amino acids. It also has both soluble and insoluble fiber, which help to lower ‘unhealthy’ LDL cholesterol that may be linked to cardiovascular disease.
But that’s not all…
Buckwheat is also rich in antioxidant flavonoids that help protect the heart. Quercetin has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic properties, and rutin strengthens the capillaries and improves circulation, protecting the good cholesterol against oxidation from free radicals. Magnesium and other minerals found in buckwheat help relax the blood vessels, improve digestion, aid in muscle growth and recovery, and defend against negative stresses that may impact the body. And lastly, buckwheat groats and flours are a great source of energy-boosting B vitamins to keep you going and going.
These pancakes not only make a perfect Valentine’s Day breakfast, but they are perfect for the weekend, perfect for a week day, or perfect for any time you have a craving for pancakes! 🙂
BANANA BUCKWHEAT PANCAKES
- 1 cup buckwheat flour
- 1 cup oat flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups filtered water
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or 6 stevia drops)
- 1-2 bananas, sliced
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
-
In a medium bowl, combine the buckwheat flour, oat flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and flaxseeds.
-
To the dry ingredients add the water, vanilla, and maple syrup. Stir until just combined.
-
Add the bananas and chocolate chips.
-
Heat a pancake pan. Once a few drops of water sizzle on contact with the hot surface, you are ready to cook the pancakes.
-
Lower the stovetop temperature to medium-low heat and begin by dropping ¼ cup of the batter on the lightly oiled surface.
-
Cook until small bubbles form on the surface, about 1-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to a minute. Don’t overcook or the pancakes will become dry.
-
Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more oil and adjusting the heat as necessary.
-
Serve the pancakes immediately with toppings of your choosing.
* Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They won’t be as soft and fluffy if you refrigerate and reheat them.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1
Can’t wait to try them, you made them sound so delicious!
They are so adorable and sound amazing