These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites are fluffy, yummy, and packed with goodness! Made with oats, ripe bananas, and creamy cottage cheese, they’re a tasty treat for any time of the day.
What I love most is how easy they are to whip up! Just mix the ingredients, scoop, and cook. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go—plus, they’re guilt-free! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are crucial for texture. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats work too, though they may result in a slightly softer pancake. You can also use oat flour if you’re short on time.
Banana: A ripe banana adds natural sweetness. If bananas aren’t your thing, unsweetened applesauce is a good alternative and works well for binding.
Cottage Cheese: This gives protein and moisture. If you’re looking for lactose-free options, go for dairy-free cottage cheese or Greek yogurt instead.
Eggs: They help bind the pancake bites. You can use flax eggs for a vegan version: mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for one egg.
How Do I Make Sure My Pancake Bites Cook Evenly?
Cooking these pancake bites evenly can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated to medium heat before adding the batter. Test it by splashing a few drops of water; they should sizzle.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give enough space between pancake bites for even cooking.
- Use a measuring spoon to keep all the bites the same size for uniform cooking time. Adjust the heat as needed—if they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat a bit.
Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
Flavoring and Leavening:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Cooking and Serving:
- Cooking oil or butter for frying
- Maple syrup or nut butter (for drizzling)
- Banana slices and pecans (for garnish)
Estimated Time:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making a total of 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious, healthy snack or breakfast ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oat Flour:
First, place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor. Blend them until they become a coarse flour. This will be the base for your pancake bites!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the homemade oat flour with baking powder, optional cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir these together well so everything is evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, take the mashed banana, cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Carefully stir together until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter will be thick, which is perfect!
5. Cook the Pancake Bites:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little cooking oil or butter to lightly grease the surface. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the batter and place them onto the skillet. Gently flatten each scoop into a small patty shape.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Cook the pancake bites for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and ensure they’re cooked through. If necessary, adjust the heat to prevent burning.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, transfer the pancake bites to a plate. Drizzle with maple syrup or nut butter for added flavor. Top with banana slices and pecans for some extra crunch and taste!
8. Enjoy!
Serve these bites warm and enjoy your nutritious, yummy Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites any time of the day!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats! They will result in a slightly different texture but will still work well. Just be aware that they might create a softer batter.
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 on a skillet until heated through.
Can I Make These Pancake Bites Vegan?
Absolutely! To make them vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Also, use a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative.
What Can I Serve With These Pancake Bites?
These pancake bites are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey or syrup for added sweetness. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
