Banana pancakes (with cream cheese and raisins)

Banana pancakes with cream cheese and raisins - a delicious and healthy dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a quick and healthy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of fruits with the creaminess of cheese, you have found the perfect recipe! Banana pancakes with cream cheese and raisins are not just a sweet treat, but also a wonderful way to introduce healthy ingredients into your daily diet. Using simple and natural ingredients, these pancakes are ideal for breakfast as well as for a delicious dessert. Plus, they are easy to prepare together with the little ones - perfect for a fun activity in the kitchen!

A brief history

Pancakes have a fascinating history, with deep roots in various culinary cultures. They are appreciated for their versatility, being able to be made with a variety of fillings, from sweet to savory. In our recipe, bananas, a popular fruit due to their sweet taste and nutritional benefits, are the star ingredient, perfectly complementing the cream cheese and raisins. Thus, we get a dessert that not only satisfies the sweet tooth but is also packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

For the pancake batter:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 ripe bananas (the riper they are, the sweeter the pancakes will be)
- Grated zest of one orange (for an extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the bananas)

For the filling:
- 200 g fluffy cream cheese (choose a low-fat version for a lighter dessert)
- Golden raisins (about 50 g, but you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)

Necessary utensils

- Immersion blender or mixer
- Non-stick frying pan
- Silicone spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Grater for orange

Preparation instructions

1. Preparing the pancake batter
Start by mashing the bananas well in a bowl. Make sure there are no large chunks left, as they can affect the texture of the pancakes. Add the eggs, grated orange zest, and sugar (if needed). Use the immersion blender to achieve a smooth batter. This will be the base for the pancakes, so make sure it is well mixed.

2. Cooking the pancakes
Heat the non-stick frying pan over medium heat and grease it with a drop of oil. Use a paper towel to remove excess oil, so the pancakes are not too greasy. Pour a portion of the pancake batter into the pan, forming an even circle. Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn golden and a slight foam appears on the surface. Use the spatula to flip the pancake and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Continue until all the batter is used.

3. Preparing the filling
While the pancakes are cooking, you can prepare the filling. Mix the cream cheese with the raisins in a bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

4. Filling the pancakes
Once all the pancakes are ready, take one and spread a generous layer of cream cheese on it. Add a few raisins and carefully roll the pancake. You can use the spatula to help with the rolling, ensuring an even appearance.

5. Serving
These delicious pancakes are served warm. You can decorate them with a strip of orange zest for a more attractive look or drizzle with honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Another idea is to serve them with a scoop of Greek yogurt for a refreshing note.

Useful tips

- Bananas: Choose very ripe bananas with brown spots on the peel. These are sweeter and give a more intense flavor to the pancakes.
- Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can omit the sugar or add only half a tablespoon. The taste of the bananas will be enough to sweeten the pancakes.
- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs with applesauce (1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg) and the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Additions: You can experiment with different fillings, such as chopped nuts, dark chocolate, or other dried fruits.

Nutritional benefits

These pancakes are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates thanks to the bananas, which are rich in potassium and fiber. The cream cheese adds a protein boost, while the raisins provide antioxidants and essential minerals. Together, these ingredients create a dessert that not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
Yes, you can experiment with applesauce or pumpkin puree, but you need to adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of each fruit.

2. How can I store the pancakes?
If you have leftover pancakes, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in the pan before serving.

3. What can I serve them with?
These pancakes are delicious served with maple syrup, honey, or even with vanilla ice cream. They are also great alongside a cup of tea or coffee!

In conclusion, banana pancakes with cream cheese and raisins are an excellent choice for any time of the day, whether for a healthy breakfast or a tasty dessert. Invite your friends and family to join in the cooking process and enjoy this simple and delicious recipe together! Bon appétit!