These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites are fluffy, delicious, and packed with goodness! Made with ripe bananas, oats, and protein-rich cottage cheese, they are a tasty way to start your day.
I love how quick and easy these bites are to whip up! They make a perfect snack or breakfast on the go. Plus, they disappear fast—my kids can’t get enough of them! 🥞🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give structure and texture to the pancake bites. If you’re in a pinch, quick oats work too, though the texture will be a bit different. You can also use oat flour if you want a smoother consistency.
Cottage Cheese: I recommend low-fat cottage cheese for creaminess without too much fat. If you need a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu for a similar texture or dairy-free yogurt for an extra boost of flavor.
Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture. Don’t have ripe bananas? You could use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute; just note that it might change the flavor a little.
Eggs: They help bind everything together. If you’re vegan, 1/4 cup of applesauce or mashed flaxseed (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) can replace each egg nicely.
Cinnamon: While optional, it adds a warm spice that complements the banana. Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin spice if you want to mix it up!
How Can I Make Sure My Pancake Bites Cook Evenly?
Cooking evenly is key to getting those perfect fluffy bites! Here are some tips:
- Preheat the Pan: Make sure your skillet is at medium heat before adding the batter. A hot pan helps to create a nice golden crust.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the pancake bites some space. This helps them cook evenly without steaming each other.
- Flip Gently: Wait until each side is golden brown before flipping. Use a thin spatula to slide under gently for a clean flip.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat. If they’re cooking too slowly, increase it slightly.
Following these tips will help you make perfectly cooked pancake bites that everyone will love!
Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancake Bites:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Fresh banana slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious option for breakfast or a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Batter:
In a blender or food processor, combine the rolled oats, cottage cheese, mashed bananas, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable, just like regular pancake batter.
2. Preheat the Pan:
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once heated, lightly grease the skillet with butter or oil to prevent sticking. You want it hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface!
3. Cook the Pancake Bites:
Using a tablespoon or small scoop, drop batter portions onto the skillet, forming small pancake bites about 2 inches in diameter. Make sure to leave some space between each bit so they can expand and cook evenly.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Once the edges start to look set and the underside is golden brown, gently flip them over. Cook the other side until it is also golden brown and the pancake bites are cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pancake bites from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Top with fresh banana slices and drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy these protein-packed, delicious bites!
These pancake bites are soft, fluffy, and naturally sweetened by the bananas, with a pleasant texture from the oats and cottage cheese. Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will yield a slightly different texture. If using instant oats, blend them for a shorter time to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
What If I Don’t Have Cottage Cheese?
If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or silken tofu for a similar creamy texture. These alternatives will still keep your pancake bites moist and delicious!
How Can I Store Leftover Pancake Bites?
Store any leftover pancake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Batter?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or berries for added flavor. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as additional ingredients can change how quickly they cook.
