These fluffy pancakes are a nutritious twist on the classic breakfast dish, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. The result? Light, fluffy pancakes that are a great source of protein, making them perfect for a hearty breakfast to start your day.
Why You’ll Love These Fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes:
- Fluffy and Light: The cottage cheese adds a nice texture and extra fluffiness to the pancakes without weighing them down.
- Protein-Packed: Cottage cheese boosts the protein content, making these pancakes more filling and perfect for a post-workout meal or a healthy breakfast.
- Naturally Sweetened: The sweetness of ripe bananas means you don’t need added sugar, making these pancakes a healthier option.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, these pancakes are perfect for a busy morning or weekend brunch.
- Versatile: Top these pancakes with fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of nuts for added flavor and crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup rolled oats (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- Coconut oil or butter (for cooking)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pancake Batter:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the bananas, cottage cheese, eggs, rolled oats, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If the batter is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk until it reaches your desired pancake batter consistency.
2. Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of coconut oil or butter to the pan to prevent sticking.
- Once the pan is hot, pour about ¼ cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Spread the batter into a circular shape with the back of the spoon or ladle.
- Cook the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until small bubbles begin to form on the surface.
- Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, or until golden brown.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
- Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve with your favorite toppings. Fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts all make great additions.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Makes 2 Servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
- Sodium: 300mg
Additional Tips:
- Flavor Variations: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Make It Vegan: To make these pancakes vegan, you can swap the eggs for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and use non-dairy cottage cheese and milk.
- Freezing Pancakes: Make a double batch, and freeze the leftovers for an easy breakfast throughout the week. Just reheat in a toaster or microwave.
- Add-Ins: Try adding chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or blueberries to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion:
These Fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes are the perfect healthy breakfast that doesn’t compromise on taste. They’re light, protein-packed, and naturally sweetened, making them a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious breakfast while keeping things nutritious. Whether you enjoy them with fresh fruit or a drizzle of syrup, these pancakes will quickly become a favorite morning treat!