These fluffy pancake bites mix cottage cheese, ripe bananas, and oats for a tasty breakfast treat. They’re healthy, easy, and perfect for a quick snack!
I love how these little bites are soft and sweet, almost like a mini pancake party! Top them with some syrup or fruit—just yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This ingredient gives the pancakes protein and moisture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu blended until smooth. It provides a similar texture without the dairy.
Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness. If you don’t have bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be a great alternative for moisture and sweetness. Just use about 1/2 cup in place of the two bananas.
Oats: Rolled oats work best here, but you can substitute quick oats if that’s what you have on hand. If you’re gluten-sensitive, check that your oats are certified gluten-free.
Cinnamon: This adds warmth and flavor. You could also use nutmeg or a dash of pumpkin spice if you want a slightly different profile.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Pancake Bites?
You want your pancake bites to be fluffy yet workable. Here are a few tips:
- Don’t over-blend the batter; a few lumps are okay for texture.
- Make sure your skillet is at medium heat. Too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
- Cooking smaller batches helps manage the cooking time, ensuring they cook evenly.
Keep the pancakes warm in a low oven as you finish cooking the rest. This way, everyone can enjoy them hot and fresh!
Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup or honey, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious batch of pancake bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, mashed bananas, rolled oats, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Blend the mixture until it is fairly smooth but still has a little texture. This will give your pancake bites a nice bite!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to the skillet to coat the surface, which helps prevent sticking and gives a nice golden color to your pancakes.
3. Cook the Pancake Bites:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each pancake and pour it onto the skillet, shaping them into small rounds. Cook for around 2-3 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when the edges look set, and small bubbles start to form on the surface.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pancake bites and cook for another 2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If you find they are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
5. Keep Them Warm:
Transfer the cooked pancake bites to a plate and keep them warm (you can cover them with a clean kitchen towel or place them in a low oven) while you cook the remaining batter.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Stack the pancake bites on a plate and top with banana slices. Drizzle some maple syrup or honey over the top, and feel free to sprinkle extra oats or shredded coconut for additional flavor. Enjoy your delicious and healthy breakfast treat!
Can I Use Almond Milk Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Almond milk will not provide the same texture or protein as cottage cheese. However, if you need a dairy-free option, consider using silken tofu blended until smooth to mimic the creaminess of cottage cheese.
How Can I Make These Pancake Bites Vegan?
To make these pancake bites vegan, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) and replace cottage cheese with silken tofu or dairy-free yogurt.
Are These Pancakes Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the pancake bites! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag separated by parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or a toaster oven when you’re ready to enjoy them!
What Can I Serve with These Pancake Bites?
These pancake bites pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a smoothie on the side. You can also add nut butter or Greek yogurt for extra protein and flavor!
