Ready in: 20 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Blending · Storage: Up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen.Quick Answer
These high protein cottage cheese pancakes are a quick and nutritious breakfast option that can be made in under 20 minutes.As the holiday season approaches in New York City, the hustle and bustle is palpable, and I find myself searching for simple yet delicious recipes that fit right into this festive atmosphere. These high protein cottage cheese pancakes offer a fluffy texture and a boost of protein, making them the perfect addition to any brunch table. Whether it's a cozy Thanksgiving breakfast or a cheerful Christmas brunch, these pancakes are sure to impress.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Each serving is packed with protein from cottage cheese, making these pancakes a filling and nutritious option.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious breakfast in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Top them with your favorite fresh fruits, maple syrup, or yogurt for a personalized touch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Made with rolled oats, these pancakes can easily be adapted to be gluten-free.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the batter in advance for a hassle-free morning.
Ingredients
Gather these nourishing ingredients to make delicious high protein cottage cheese pancakes.
Cottage Cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
Eggs
- 4 large eggs
Oats
- 1 cup rolled oats
Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Salt
- A pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Fresh fruits, maple syrup, or yogurt for serving
How to Make High Protein Cottage Cheese Pancakes (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to prepare your pancakes perfectly.
Step 1: Preparation
Start by gathering all your ingredients. I always recommend using a block of fresh cottage cheese, ideally one that's in brine for a creamier texture. You can use an immersion blender or a standard blender; either will work perfectly to achieve that smooth batter.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, oats, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You'll want to pause occasionally to scrape down the sides, ensuring that every bit of the oats is incorporated. The aroma of blended oats mixed with the cottage cheese is quite inviting!
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil. You'll know the pan is ready when a few drops of water sizzle and bounce on the surface.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Pour about a ¼ cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. As the pancakes start cooking, look out for little bubbles forming on the surface. This will usually take about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancakes once the edges look set and the bubbles are popping consistently, letting the other side cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Oh, and make sure to capture that satisfying sizzle!
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve the pancakes warm, topped with your choice of fresh fruits, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Old or Dry Oats: Ensure your oats are fresh. Old oats can produce a gritty texture instead of a light and fluffy pancake.
- Not Blending Enough: Make sure to blend until the mixture is completely smooth; otherwise, you might end up with uneven textures in your pancakes.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Give each pancake enough space. This helps in achieving an even cook and golden-brown edges without making them soggy.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Add-ins: Feel free to add a handful of blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter in advance; just give it a good stir if it separates before cooking.
- Temperature Control: If your pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat. A moderate temperature allows for cooking through without burning the outside.
Variations
- Swap cottage cheese for Greek yogurt for a different flavor.
- Use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats for a chewier texture.
- Incorporate flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, for a unique twist.
- Add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.
- Experiment with different types of milk (dairy or non-dairy) to adjust consistency.
How to Serve
- Top with fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or peaches.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Add a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess and protein.
- Serve alongside nut butter for added richness.
- Pair with a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for a crunchy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the batter in advance; just stir if it separates before cooking.
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the toaster or microwave for a quick meal.
- Freezing: Freeze pancakes with parchment paper between each to prevent sticking.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
During my testing of these high-protein cottage cheese pancakes, I discovered how versatile they could be for various occasions, including a cozy Thanksgiving breakfast or a sweet Christmas brunch! The best part? Their fluffy texture and protein boost make them a perfect guilt-free treat any time of the year.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 8 pancakes · Serving Size: 2 pancakes
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~220 calories · 14g protein · 30g carbs · 7g fat
Recipe by:
High Protein Cottage Cheese Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Use a block of fresh cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, oats, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
- Pour about ¼ cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form and edges set, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Serve the pancakes warm with your choice of fresh fruits, maple syrup, or yogurt.
Notes
FAQs
- 1. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese instead of regular?
- Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but it might slightly affect the texture and taste of the pancakes.
- 2. Can I substitute the rolled oats for a different flour?
- While rolled oats provide a unique texture and flavor, you can substitute them with whole wheat or almond flour, keeping in mind that the consistency may change.
- 3. How can I make these pancakes sweeter?
- You can add a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup to the batter for extra sweetness, or serve the pancakes with a sweet topping like maple syrup or fruit preserves.
- 4. Can I make these pancakes vegan?
- Yes, you can use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative and replace the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer to make them vegan-friendly.
- 5. How do I know when the pancakes are done cooking?
- The pancakes are done when they are golden brown on both sides, and little bubbles form on the surface before flipping.
