These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites are fluffy, tasty, and super easy to make! Packed with protein from the cottage cheese and sweetness from the bananas, they’re a great start to your day.
They’re so small and cute, it’s hard to eat just one! I like to enjoy them with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. They make breakfast feel like a treat! 🍌🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Banana: A ripe banana is key for natural sweetness and moisture. If you’re out of bananas, you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce for a similar texture and sweetness.
Cottage Cheese: I like using full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess, but low-fat or even Greek yogurt can be a good alternative if you’re looking for lower calories or a different flavor profile.
Rolled Oats: Regular rolled oats are perfect for these bites. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats—your pancakes will still be delicious!
Eggs: Eggs hold the mixture together. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for binding.
How Do I Ensure My Pancake Bites Don’t Fall Apart?
The key to solid pancake bites is the right cooking technique. Here are some steps to help you out!
- Make sure to mash the banana thoroughly; this helps it blend well and bind the mixture.
- Let the batter sit for a few minutes to allow the oats to absorb some moisture.
- Heat your skillet to medium heat, not too high, to avoid burning the outside before they cook inside.
- Use a light touch when flipping them; a spatula for support works wonders to keep them intact.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked pancake bites that hold together beautifully!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup for drizzling (optional)
- Sliced bananas for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, this recipe will take around 20-25 minutes, so you can have a delicious breakfast or snack ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Banana:
In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe banana until it’s mostly smooth. This will be the sweet base for your pancake bites!
2. Combine Ingredients:
Next, add the cottage cheese, rolled oats, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Stir well, mixing until everything is combined into a nice batter.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Batter:
Using a spoon, scoop out small portions of batter (about 1-2 tablespoons) and place them onto the heated skillet, forming small pancake bites. Make sure to leave some space between them!
5. Flip & Finish Cooking:
Cook each pancake bite for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until they turn golden brown. Gently flip them over and cook for another few minutes on the other side until cooked through. Handle with care to keep them intact!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the pancake bites from the skillet and stack them on a plate. Serve warm with sliced bananas and a drizzle of maple syrup, if you like. Enjoy your tasty and nutritious pancake bites!
These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites are not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you energized! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Oats in This Recipe?
Yes! While rolled oats work best for this recipe, you can also use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Avoid using steel-cut oats, as they won’t cook through in the same amount of time.
How Can I Store Leftover Pancake Bites?
Store any leftover pancake bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them up in a skillet over low heat.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture and protein content. Just make sure to choose plain yogurt to keep the flavor in line with the recipe.
Can I Freeze These Pancake Bites?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place the pancake bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat!
