These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites are fluffy and packed with goodness! Made with simple ingredients like ripe bananas and oats, they are perfect for a yummy breakfast.
They’re bite-sized, which means you can pop them in your mouth without any fuss. I often enjoy them with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the base of our pancake bites, adding protein and creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can substitute with silken tofu or a dairy-free yogurt for a similar texture.
Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness. If you don’t have bananas, you could use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute but it will change the flavor slightly.
Rolled Oats: They give these bites a nice chewy texture. Quick oats can also work here, though the texture will be a bit different. If gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.
Eggs: They help bind the ingredients together. For a vegan option, replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Cinnamon: This adds warmth and flavor. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, feel free to omit it or replace it with vanilla powder for a different touch.
How Do I Get Fluffy Pancake Bites?
The secret to fluffy pancake bites is in the blending and resting. First, blend all your ingredients until smooth but not overly processed—some texture from oats is nice! After blending, let the batter sit for 5 minutes. This gives the oats time to absorb moisture, resulting in thicker and fluffier bites.
- Use medium heat to cook the pancakes; too high and they’ll burn on the outside while remaining gooey inside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to puff up and brown nicely.
- Only flip them once bubbles form on top, which signals they’re ready to be flipped.
With these tips and adjustments, your Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites will turn out delightful and satisfying! Enjoy!
Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pancake Bites:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter or oil for cooking
- For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Fresh banana slices
- Berries
Estimated Time:
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy morning or a fun breakfast any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
Start by adding the cottage cheese, ripe bananas, rolled oats, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt into a blender or food processor. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. It’s okay if it’s not completely smooth—some texture is nice!
2. Let the Batter Rest:
Give the batter a little time to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the oats absorb some moisture and thickens the batter, ensuring your pancake bites are fluffy.
3. Heat the Skillet:
While your batter is resting, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent the pancake bites from sticking.
4. Cook the Pancake Bites:
Now, scoop small portions (about 2 tablespoons each) of the batter onto the skillet to form bite-sized pancakes. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on one side. Watch for bubbles to form on the surface and for the edges to look set—this is how you know they’re ready to flip!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pancakes over and cook for another 2 minutes, until they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through. Repeat this with the remaining batter.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, you can serve the pancake bites stacked or spread out on a plate. Top with fresh banana slices, berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a delicious touch. Enjoy your fluffy, nutritious Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or a dairy-free yogurt. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change slightly.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Absolutely! If you prefer sweeter pancake bites, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter. Taste the batter and adjust according to your preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat. They also freeze well; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.
Can I Make These Vegan?
Yes! To make these pancake bites vegan, you can replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping it plant-based!
