1. Make the Pancake Batter:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay.

2. Cook the Pancakes:

• Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
• Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2-3 minutes). Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
• Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking pancakes on a plate.

3. Assemble the Owl Pancakes:

• Stack two pancakes for each owl.
• Use sliced bananas for the eyes, placing them on the top pancake. Add chocolate chips in the center for pupils.
• For the beak, place a chocolate chip or a small piece of banana between the eyes.
• Add whipped cream on the sides of the pancakes for wings.

4. Serve:

• Drizzle with maple syrup and decorate with sliced strawberries or additional fruit around the plate.