🥞 Fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes
Description
These Fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes are the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. They’re naturally sweet from ripe bananas, protein-packed thanks to cottage cheese and eggs, and unbelievably soft. With no refined sugar and minimal ingredients, these pancakes are ideal for a quick weekday breakfast, cozy weekend brunch, or even a post-workout snack. Their light and airy texture makes them feel like a treat, while their wholesome ingredients keep you full and energized.
📋 Ingredients (Makes ~10 small pancakes)
- 2 large ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup rolled oats or oat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or coconut oil (for cooking)
🍽️ Instructions
- Blend the batter:
In a blender, combine bananas, cottage cheese, eggs, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy (about 30 seconds). - Heat the pan:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. - Cook the pancakes:
Pour 2-3 tablespoons of batter per pancake into the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown. - Serve:
Serve warm with fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, or a drizzle of nut butter.
👨🍳 Tips & Notes
- Extra Fluffy Tip: Let the batter sit for 5 minutes after blending to let the oats absorb some moisture.
- No blender? Mash the bananas very well and mix everything in a bowl (texture will be more rustic).
- Add-ins: Try mini chocolate chips, blueberries, or chopped nuts.
- Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in toaster or skillet.
🍴 Serving Size
- Serves: 2–3 people
- Serving size: 3–4 pancakes (depending on size)
🔬 Nutritional Information (Per serving, ~3 pancakes)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 17–20g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3–4g
- Sugar: 9g (naturally occurring)
Note: Values may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.
💪 Health Benefits
- High in protein: Cottage cheese and eggs provide a complete protein source, keeping you full longer.
- Natural sweetness: Bananas offer potassium and fiber while eliminating the need for added sugar.
- Good for digestion: Oats support digestive health with their fiber content.
- Low-glycemic: Balanced protein and carbs help manage blood sugar levels.
❓ FAQ (Q & A)
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free yogurt or a plant-based cottage cheese alternative. Texture may vary slightly.
Q: Can I use egg substitutes?
A: Yes, though results will vary. Try 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg as a replacement. The pancakes may be less fluffy.
Q: Can I make these ahead for meal prep?
A: Absolutely. Make a batch, cool completely, and store in the fridge or freezer. Reheat in the toaster for a quick breakfast.
Q: Can I skip the oats?
A: Oats help hold the batter together and give structure. If avoiding oats, try almond flour or whole wheat flour as a substitute (adjust quantity for thickness).
Q: Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
A: Common reasons include under-ripe bananas, over-mixing, or not letting the batter rest. Use ripe bananas and allow the batter to sit for a few minutes before cooking.