Quick Description:
These soft and fluffy high-protein chocolate chip pancake bites are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, packed with protein and lightened up with healthy ingredients. The addition of chocolate chips gives them a sweet, satisfying crunch, making them perfect for a post-workout snack or a guilt-free treat.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 10–12 bites
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (high-protein)
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional but recommended)
- Coconut oil or non-stick spray for greasing
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mixture
In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the ripe banana, cottage cheese, protein powder, eggs, oats, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Blend or mix until smooth and well combined. -
Preheat the Pan
Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with coconut oil or cooking spray. -
Cook the Pancake Bites
Pour a spoonful of the pancake batter onto the pan, forming small circles. Drop a few mini chocolate chips on top of each bite before flipping them over. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pancake bites warm, with extra chocolate chips on the side or drizzled with sugar-free syrup. These also make a great addition to a packed lunch or an on-the-go breakfast.
Additional Notes
- Texture: These pancake bites have a soft, fluffy texture due to the cottage cheese and oats, with a light crunch from the chocolate chips.
- Customization: Feel free to add other mix-ins, like blueberries, nuts, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
Dietary Info
- High Protein: Yes, thanks to the protein powder, cottage cheese, and eggs.
- Low Carb: With the use of oats and a banana, they are not high-carb but still offer plenty of natural sweetness and energy.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free when using certified gluten-free oats.
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Flavor Twist: Swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips or cacao nibs for a richer taste.
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a cozy, warm flavor.
- Toppings: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter for extra protein and a creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cottage Cheese: If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
- Protein Powder: Feel free to use any flavor of protein powder, like chocolate or cinnamon roll, to customize the flavor.
- Banana: You can substitute the banana with a 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a different flavor profile.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These pancake bites freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
