Banana and almond pancake traybake (a high-protein breakfast)

This banana and almond tray-cake is the ultimate quick, yet nutritious, breakfast.

What’s better than pancakes? A premade and easy-to-make tray-cake! This recipe combines banana and almond butter to make a delicious, nutritious and sweet breakfast that can be heated and served in a flash, or even eaten on the go if you’re in a rush, making busy mornings feel calmer and more nourishing.

With ingredients such as chia seeds, Greek yoghurt, almond butter and banana, this recipe serves as a protein and fibre-rich option that will keep you full and satisfied. 

Banana and almond traycake

Serves: 6
Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 100g plain flour  
• 200g Greek yoghurt  
• 1 tsp baking powder  
• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 
• 3 tbsp chia seeds 
• 2 eggs 
• 1 tsp cinnamon 
• 2 tbsp maple syrup (optional) 
• 2 tbsp almond butter  
• 70ml semi-skimmed milk
• 1 banana, sliced  
• Pinch of salt 
• Flaked almonds for topping 

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180˚C and line a small oven-proof dish or baking tray (approximately 32x25cm) with baking paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the eggs, Greek yoghurt, vanilla extract, and milk.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, salt and cinnamon, mix until smooth.
4. Finally, gently stir in the chia seeds. 
5. Pour the batter into the prepared tray and spread it into an even layer. 
6. Using a spoon, place small amounts of your almond butter throughout the batter. Then, with a fork or skewer, swirl the almond butter through the batter. 
7. Place the sliced banana and flaked almonds atop the batter evenly.
8. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. 
9. Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly and cut into 6 equal pieces. 
10. Serve straight away with Greek yoghurt and a drizzle of maple syrup, or store for another time and heat in the oven for 3-5 minutes when desired. 

The healthy bit

Multiple ingredients in this recipe contribute to its overall nutrient density, making it a balanced and nourishing breakfast option.

Chia seeds are a great example. They’re an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which play a key role in supporting heart and brain health while helping to reduce inflammation. They also provide both fibre and protein, which can slow down digestion, balance blood sugar levels, regulate hunger cues, and support healthy bowel function.

Greek yoghurt not only binds the ingredients together but also boosts the protein content, transforming these pancakes from a simple breakfast into a filling, hunger-crushing meal. It’s also rich in beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. However, because cooking destroys most of these bacteria, adding an extra spoonful of yoghurt when serving is a great way to retain those probiotic benefits.

Other sources of fibre in this recipe include banana, almond butter, and almond flakes, which together provide both soluble and insoluble fibre. Since it can be challenging to reach the recommended daily fibre intake, incorporating a variety of sources into each meal can make a big difference.

Almond butter contributes more than just fibre – it’s a rich source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which help maintain healthy levels of “good” cholesterol (LDL). It also provides valuable micronutrients such as vitamin E and magnesium, making it a powerhouse ingredient to include in your breakfast.

Bananas bring natural sweetness and flavour while delivering a range of nutrients. Best known for their high potassium content, they also provide vitamin C, vitamin B6, and antioxidants, making them a simple yet nutrient-packed addition!

Overall, this recipe delivers a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fibre. Together, these components slow digestion and support steady blood sugar levels, providing consistent energy throughout the morning to keep you fuelled and satisfied.

This piece first appeared in Happiful Magazine (issue 103). Discover the full issue in print, via subscription, or for free on the Happiful app.

For more nourishing ideas and inspiration, explore our Recipe hub.