My intention when creating this recipe was to create a healthy nut-free chocolatey lunchbox treat for the kids. But now I think making it for the kids is just an excuse to eat it myself! Yes they are that good.

I used homemade sunflower seed butter to ensure that the recipe is nut-free. Although my youngest Noura doesn’t have any nut allergy that we know of, and Lulu is only allergic to walnuts (as far as we know) I could have made them with almond or peanut butter. However, as my kids go to a strictly nut-free school, making it with sun butter means I can include it in their lunch box as a treat. They are eating a chocolate treat, while I’m happy it’s healthy and nutritious – now if that isn’t a win-win, I don’t know what is! Nunu helped me make them, and she couldn’t wait to dig in once we finished taking photos.

So why would these pancakes be considered healthy? Let’s have a look at the ingredients. Sunflower seed butter is rich in many nutrients such as vitamin E, copper and B Vitamins. It’s also a healthy source of essential amino acids and fiber. I used ripe banana and dates to add sweetness and moisture naturally, both high in potassium as well as other minerals and vitamins, in addition to dietary fiber. Cocoa powder, especially if using raw, is high in antioxidants, magnesium and amino acids. Eggs add a good dose of protein, and oats gluten-free, a good source of soluble fiber that helps you (and your kids) stay full for longer.

I used Enjoy Life chocolate chips (available at WholeFoods by Save Co) to keep the recipe dairy-free.

These pancakes contain eggs. You may try making the pancakes with a flax or chia egg, however I haven’t tried myself. For fully vegan pancakes, check out my Spiced Buckwheat Pancakes recipe.

The vanilla cream sauce is certainly not essential, especially if you plan to keep the recipe completely nut-free….I just couldn’t resist having the white drizzle on these pancake for the picture…makes it look decadent, don’t you agree?

For the lunchbox I make mini pancakes and store them in the fridge and then warm them up for school.

 

And now finally Noura gets to have her pancakes!