These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites are a tasty and healthy breakfast option! Packed with bananas, oats, and the goodness of cottage cheese, they’re fluffy and fun to eat!
They’re perfect for a quick morning treat, and I love how easy they are to make. Plus, you can pop them in your mouth like little snacks—it’s hard to stop at just one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Banana: A ripe banana is essential for sweetness and moisture. If you need a substitute, unsweetened applesauce works well, but it changes the flavor a bit.
Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese adds protein and creaminess. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a similar texture and tangy flavor. Silken tofu is a great vegan option!
Oats: Rolled oats give the pancakes structure. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats. Oat flour can also be used if you prefer a smoother texture.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together. You can use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) or chia eggs for a vegan version.
How Do I Ensure My Pancake Bites Are Fluffy?
Achieving fluffy pancake bites is all about the cooking technique. Make sure to let the batter rest for 5 minutes; this allows the oats to absorb some moisture and expand which keeps them light.
- Cook on medium heat, as too high a temperature can burn the outside before the inside is cooked. Patience is key!
- Flip only when bubbles have formed on the surface; this is a sign they’re ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet so that each pancake can cook evenly.
By following these tips, your pancake bites will turn out fluffy and delicious every time!
Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup rolled oats (or oat flour)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil, for cooking
- Optional toppings: sliced banana, chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts), Greek yogurt or whipped cream, honey or maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on how many pancake bites you make. Total time is around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
Start by mashing the ripe banana in a mixing bowl until it’s nice and smooth. Then, add the cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a different bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix them together to distribute the baking powder evenly.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, it’s time to stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix well until a thick batter forms. Let the batter sit for about 5 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some moisture and soften up.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to grease the surface. This helps the pancake bites cook evenly and not stick.
5. Cook the Pancake Bites:
Using a tablespoon or small scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter onto the skillet, forming little pancake bites about 2-3 inches in diameter. Cook them until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges begin to look set (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pancake bites and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and keep warm while you repeat with the remaining batter.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Stack the pancake bites on a plate and get creative with your toppings! Add sliced banana, a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream, sprinkle with your favorite chopped nuts, and drizzle with honey or maple syrup. Enjoy your delicious, fluffy, and protein-packed pancake bites!
These are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have cottage cheese, Greek yogurt can be a great alternative that still adds creaminess and protein. Just make sure to use plain Greek yogurt for the best results.
Can I Make These Pancake Bites Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make them gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats or substitute with oat flour. Both options will work beautifully in this recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm, or briefly pan-fry them to regain a little crispiness.
Can I Freeze the Pancake Bites?
Yes, these pancake bites freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from the freezer, adding a little extra time to ensure they are heated through.
