Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Measure out the oats, protein powder, mashed banana, egg, milk, baking powder, and any optional add-ins like cinnamon or vanilla extract. Having everything ready and pre-measured will help you move through the recipe with ease.

Using a high-speed blender, grind the oats into a fine flour-like consistency. This step is crucial to achieving pancakes with a smooth and fluffy texture. Make sure to blend thoroughly until no large oat pieces remain.

Combine the mashed banana, egg, milk, and any chosen flavor enhancements like vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating the base for the pancake batter.

Add the oat flour, protein powder, baking powder, and any optional dry spices, such as cinnamon, to the wet ingredient mixture. Stir gently until all components are fully incorporated and you have a thick, uniform batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the pancakes.

Place your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. Lightly grease the surface with a small amount of oil or non-stick spray to prevent the pancakes from sticking and ensure an even golden brown finish.

Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour small portions of the batter onto the heated skillet, creating pancake rounds of your desired size. Cook on one side for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to set. Flip the pancakes carefully with a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, until both sides are golden and cooked through.

Once all the pancakes are cooked, stack them on a plate and top with your favorite additions such as fresh fruits, honey, maple syrup, or a dollop of nut butter. Serve them warm and enjoy your healthy, protein-packed banana oatmeal pancakes.