Beet Pancakes
Written by Kenny Ekerin
Fact Checked by Mindsmaking Professionals
22nd, July, 2025
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These vibrant beet pancakes are soft, naturally sweet, and perfect for babies, toddlers, or adults. Great for baby-led weaning and sneaking veggies into any meal without the mealtime battles.
Parents can sometimes find it difficult to introduce vegetables to children, especially with picky eaters, and this recipe is a sure way to start.
These bright pink beet pancakes are here to save breakfast or snack time. Naturally sweetened with banana and made with wholesome oats and fresh beetroot, this easy pancake recipe is soft enough for babies starting solids, fun enough for picky toddlers, and tasty enough that even grown-ups will steal a bite.
They're also blender-friendly, freezer-friendly, and full of fiber and antioxidants. Whether you're starting baby-led weaning or just want a colorful twist on pancakes, this one's a win.
Why You’d Love These Beet Pancakes
- Perfect for babies, toddlers, and adults alike
- Naturally soft, easy to chew, and great for self-feeding
- Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
- Freezer-friendly and easy to prep ahead
- Customizable for food allergies or dietary preferences
- A sneaky way to add veggies to your child’s plate without the struggle
Prep time - 5 minutes
Cook time - 15 mins
Yields - 22 mini pancakes
How to Make these Beet Pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium beetroot, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup oats (rolled or quick oats)
- 2 eggs
- 1 ripe banana, peeled
- 2 tbsp milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
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Instructions:
Prep the Beet: Peel and quarter your beetroot. Pro tip: wear gloves to keep your hands stain-free.
Blend Everything: Add beetroot, oats, eggs, banana, and milk into a blender. Blend until smooth. The consistency should be pourable, like pancake batter.
Adjust as Needed: If too thick, add more milk or water. Too thin? Blend in more oats.
Cook the Pancakes: Place a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour small spoonfuls of batter and cook 2–3 minutes per side until set and lightly golden. Flip gently.
Serve & Enjoy: Cool slightly before serving. Pair with soft fruits, yogurt, or nut butter. Babies 6–9 months can enjoy strips; older babies and toddlers can handle full minis.
Tips for success
Use a high-speed blender for a super-smooth batter
Beets and oats can be tricky to blend completely smooth, especially if you're using a basic blender. A high-powered blender ensures the beetroot gets finely pureed and the oats break down into a smooth, pourable batter.
Adjust batter consistency if needed
Bananas can vary in size and ripeness, so you might need to tweak the batter. If it feels too thick (like muffin batter), add a splash of milk or water. If it’s too runny and spreads too thin in the pan, blend in a few more oats. The ideal texture should resemble regular pancake batter; thick enough to hold its shape when spooned into the pan, but loose enough to spread slightly.
Cook on medium heat so they don’t brown too quickly
Because these pancakes contain natural sugars from bananas and beets, they can brown quickly. Cooking on medium or medium-low heat allows them to cook through without burning or becoming too crisp on the outside. You want them lightly golden and cooked all the way through, not overly browned or dry.
Don’t skip cooling before serving
Fresh off the pan, these pancakes are hot and soft, which might make them tricky for babies to pick up. Letting them cool for 5–10 minutes helps them firm up slightly, making them easier for little hands to hold and reducing the risk of burns. Cooler pancakes are also safer for baby-led weaning.
Serving suggestions
Baby-Led Weaning Option
These pancakes are an excellent and soft finger food. For babies 6–9 months, cut them into thick strips (about the size of two adult fingers) that are easy to grasp and gnaw on.
Toddler-Friendly Meals
Toddlers can enjoy these beet pancakes with a variety of toppings that boost flavor and nutrition. Offer them plain full-fat yogurt, a few slices of soft fruit like bananas or pears, or a smear of smooth peanut or almond butter (if nuts have already been safely introduced).
On-the-Go Snack
They hold together well once cooled, making them a mess-free, handheld snack. Wrap a few in parchment paper for an on-the-go breakfast or pack into a lunchbox with other toddler-friendly snacks like sliced cheese, fruits, and wholegrain crackers.
Family Breakfast Idea
While designed with little ones in mind, these pancakes are great for adults too. Top with Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of chia or hemp seeds, or your favourite nut butter for a more filling, protein-rich breakfast. Add a side of eggs or fruit to turn it into a complete, balanced meal.
How to store
In the Fridge
Let the pancakes cool completely on a wire rack or plate before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to soggy pancakes. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
In the Freezer
To freeze, place the pancakes in a single layer on a tray or plate and freeze for 1–2 hours (this prevents them from sticking together). Once frozen, transfer them into a reusable freezer bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Heat for 20–30 seconds
- Toaster: Use the lowest setting for a light reheat
- Pan: Warm over low heat, flipping once to prevent over-browning
- Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain their soft texture, especially for babies and toddlers.
Nutrition
(Per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 305 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0.01 g
- Cholesterol: 164 mg
- Sodium: 133 mg
- Potassium: 695 mg
- Fiber: 8 g
- Sugar: 14 g
- Vitamin A: 303 IU
- Vitamin C: 9 mg
- Calcium: 63 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on pasta type, cheese, and bean variety used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cooked beetroot instead of raw?
Cooked beetroot works beautifully and may be easier on some blenders. Just ensure it’s soft and cooled before adding to the blender. Roasted or steamed beets are both fine, just avoid pre-packaged beets with vinegar or preservatives, as those can affect taste and nutrition for little ones.
Are these beet pancakes gluten-free?
They are naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. This makes them a great option for children or family members with gluten sensitivities or intolerances. Always double-check your oat packaging to confirm it’s labeled gluten-free.
Can I use an egg substitute?
Yes! For an egg-free version, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes). Chia eggs work too. Keep in mind, the texture may be slightly softer, but they will still hold together well enough for tiny hands.
What’s the best way to serve for baby-led weaning?
For younger babies (6–9 months), cut the pancakes into strips about the width of two fingers to help them grip and self-feed. For older babies (9+ months) and toddlers, you can serve the whole mini pancakes or tear them into bite-sized pieces. Always supervise meals and adjust serving size to your child’s developmental stage.
Can I use beet powder instead of fresh beets?
Beet powder is a good substitute; however, it won't offer the same texture or fiber content. Start with 1–2 teaspoons of beet powder and increase to taste. The color may be less vibrant, but it still adds some nutrition and fun color.
Do these taste earthy like beets?
Surprisingly, they do not. The banana and oat base tones down the natural earthiness of beetroot. Most kids (and adults) say they taste sweet and mild with a pleasant banana flavor, especially when paired with yogurt or fruit.
Can I add spices or flavorings?
Yes! A pinch of cinnamon, a splash of vanilla extract, or even a little nutmeg can enhance the flavor, especially for toddlers and older children. Just keep spices subtle for younger babies, as their taste preferences are still developing.
How can I make these more filling for adults?
Serve with toppings that boost protein and healthy fats, like Greek yogurt, almond butter, or a side of scrambled eggs. You can even layer a few with yogurt and fruit for a fun “pancake stack” breakfast.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes! These beet pancakes freeze beautifully. Make a double batch, freeze them in layers, and reheat as needed for a quick breakfast or snack. They’re great for busy mornings or prepping ahead for the week.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It's best to make the batter fresh, as the oats will continue to absorb liquid and thicken over time. However, if needed, you can prep the dry and wet ingredients separately and blend just before cooking.
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