Are you looking for a delicious and healthy breakfast that will keep you feeling full and energized all morning? Look no further! These protein pancakes, made with cottage cheese, are a fantastic way to start your day. They're surprisingly easy to make, packed with protein, and taste incredibly fluffy and delicious. Forget those sugary, processed pancake mixes; this recipe delivers a guilt-free breakfast that's both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend brunch, these protein pancakes are a game-changer for your healthy eating habits.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (approx. 225g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup rolled oats (about 100g) – you can use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
- Toppings of your choice (berries, banana slices, nuts, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup)
Instructions:
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Combine dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure everything is well combined to avoid lumps.
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Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, egg, honey (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Combine wet and dry: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
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Cook the pancakes: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake.
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Flip and finish: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip when bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve your protein pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, banana slices, a sprinkle of nuts, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup all pair wonderfully.
Tips for Perfect Protein Pancakes:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough pancakes. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable.
- Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking. You can even omit it entirely for a less sweet pancake.
- Add-ins: Get creative with your add-ins! Chopped nuts, blueberries, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut all make delicious additions to the batter.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Banana Protein Pancakes: Mash a ripe banana into the batter for added sweetness and moisture.
- Spiced Protein Pancakes: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm and comforting flavor.
- Savory Protein Pancakes: Omit the sweetener and add herbs and spices like chives, savory, or pepper for a savory pancake option.
Nutritional Information (per pancake, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fat: 5-7g
These protein pancakes are a delicious and healthy addition to your breakfast repertoire. They're quick, easy, and packed with protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Enjoy!