These fluffy pancake bites are a perfect mix of cottage cheese, bananas, and oats. They’re tasty, filling, and super easy to whip up for breakfast or a snack!
Honestly, they disappear fast in my house! 😄 I love to top them with a drizzle of honey or some fresh fruit. It’s a fun way to eat pancakes without the mess!
They’re quick to make, so I enjoy cooking them on busy mornings. Plus, they’re full of protein and fiber, making them a great choice to kickstart the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This adds protein and creaminess to the pancake bites. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can try ricotta cheese or even a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Banana: A ripe banana adds natural sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have bananas, applesauce can be a good substitute or you might try a mashed avocado for a different flavor.
Rolled Oats: Oats give the pancakes structure and fiber. If you need them gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats work too if you don’t have rolled oats on hand.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients. For a vegan version, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg, and let sit to thicken).
How Do I Get the Perfect Pancake Bite Texture?
The texture of the pancake bites is key to making them fluffy yet sturdy. Start by blending your ingredients just until combined; over-blending can make them gummy. Aim for a smooth batter but with some little oat bits for texture.
- Use medium heat for cooking. Too high, and they might burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Give each pancake bite some space to cook evenly.
- Flip them gently. Wait until you see bubbles on the surface before flipping to avoid breaking them.
Try these tips, and you’ll have perfectly fluffy pancake bites every time! Enjoy!
Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 large ripe banana
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Butter or oil for frying
- Maple syrup or caramel sauce for drizzling
- Sliced banana and extra oats for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have delicious pancake bites ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oat Flour:
Begin by placing the rolled oats into a blender or food processor. Blend them until they turn into a coarse oat flour. This will be the base for your pancake bites!
2. Mix the Batter:
Next, add the cottage cheese, ripe banana, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if using), salt, and baking powder into the oat flour. Blend everything together until smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no chunks left!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to the pan to prevent sticking. You want it hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles when it hits the pan.
4. Cook the Pancake Bites:
Scoop spoonfuls of the batter onto the skillet, making small, thick rounds about 2-3 inches in diameter. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Don’t rush this step; just let them do their thing!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the pancake bites from the skillet and stack them on a plate. Drizzle generously with maple syrup or caramel sauce for a sweet touch. Optionally, garnish with extra sliced banana and a sprinkle of oats for some added flair!
These pancake bites are wonderfully soft and deeply delicious, bursting with the flavors of banana and cinnamon. Plus, that cottage cheese gives them a protein boost – perfect for a nutritious breakfast!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have cottage cheese on hand, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or even a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Can I Make the Batter in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before cooking, as it may thicken while resting.
How Do I Store Leftover Pancake Bites?
Store any leftover pancake bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to keep them soft.
Can I Freeze These Pancake Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the cooled pancake bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them directly from the freezer in the microwave or on a skillet!
