Mini protein pancake bites

Mini protein pancake bites

15 min
Welcome to the world of quick and delicious snacks with our mini protein pancake bites. These bite-sized delights combine the sweetness of bananas with cottage cheese's creamy texture. They are perfect for busy mornings or as a tasty snack anytime of the day. Topped with juicy blueberries and a dollop of cottage cheese, these pancake bites offer a burst of flavour in every mouthful. So, get your ingredients ready and enjoy making these little wonders that are sure to become a regular in your meal plans.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/mini-protein-pancake-bites/

Instructions

  • Mash the bananas and mix with the eggs and cottage cheese to form a batter.
  • Melt the butter in a skillet or pancake pan.
  • Form mini pancakes and fry on both sides until golden brown.
  • Put the blueberries in a small pot and gently heat them through until they release their juices, it will take only a few minutes.
  • Top with blueberries and cottage cheese.
Enjoy!

Questions about mini protein pancake bites

This recipe is so versatile that it fits into almost any schedule. With a little planning, you can enjoy them whenever you’re in the mood for a warm and fluffy treat. Below, we answer some common questions to help you make the most of your mini protein pancake bites.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Cook the pancakes as directed, then let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave before serving.
How can I keep my pancake bites from drying out?
Start by ensuring your pancake batter is well-mixed but not overworked, as overmixing can lead to tough pancakes. Avoid cooking the pancakes for too long on each side – about two to three minutes per side is usually sufficient. Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a plate and cover them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and moist until serving.
How should I store leftover batter?
Store leftover batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Stir well before using and, if you have time, let the batter come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures that it spreads evenly on the pan and cooks uniformly. You can also opt to freeze it for longer-term storage. Transfer the batter into a freezer-safe container or portion it into individual servings using an ice cube tray. Make sure to leave some room at the top of the container or tray for expansion as the batter freezes. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature until it's completely defrosted. Stir it gently to re-incorporate any separated liquids before cooking.

Ingredients

Bananas
2
Eggs
4
Cottage cheese
125 g
Butter
3 tbsp
Toppings
Blueberries
175 g
Cottage cheese
125 g

Choose ripe bananas

For the best flavour and texture in your mini protein pancake bites, look for bananas that have plenty of brown spots or feel slightly soft when gently pressed. This indicates that they are fully ripened, making them sweeter and easier to mash. Their sweetness enhances the overall taste of the pancakes, while their soft texture ensures a smooth batter consistency.

Avoid bananas that are green or overly mushy, as they may not provide the ideal sweetness or consistency for your pancakes.

Mashing techniques for your batter

To achieve a smooth batter, use a fork or potato masher to mash the bananas thoroughly until smooth and lump-free. For a creamier consistency, you can also blend the bananas in a food processor or blender before adding them to the pancake batter. Incorporating well-mashed bananas ensures even distribution of sweetness and moisture, enhancing the pancakes' flavour and fluffiness.

Take care not to over-mash though, as this can result in overly liquid batter.

Prevent your mini protein pancake bites from sticking to the pan

To prevent sticking, heat your pan properly before adding the batter. Aim for a medium heat and check for readiness by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the pan – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the pan is likely hot enough. To help the pancakes release more easily, our recipe includes a small amount of butter that is added to the pan before cooking each batch.

Optimise your week with advance prep

Prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast the next morning. You can also cook a batch of pancakes in advance and refrigerate or freeze them for convenient, ready-to-eat breakfasts throughout the week.

Make fun shapes for picky eaters

To make the pancakes more appealing for picky eaters, use pancake moulds or cookie cutters to shape the batter into hearts, stars, or animal shapes directly on the pan. Pour the batter into the moulds and allow it to cook until the edges are set before carefully removing the mould. This not only adds a playful element to mealtime but also encourages everyone to enjoy their pancakes more enthusiastically.

Enhancing the texture with different cooking methods

Experiment with different cooking methods to enhance the texture of your mini protein pancake bites. Try baking the batter in a muffin tin for a fluffier result or use a waffle iron for a crispier texture. Each method provides a unique twist on the traditional pancake.

Presentation and pairing suggestions

When presenting this snack, focus on enhancing their appeal through thoughtful pairings and presentations. Instead of simply arranging them on a plate or serving platter, create a tall stack, layered with the blueberries and cottage cheese toppings. For a more interactive presentation, fold them onto skewers and serve the toppings in separate bowls, letting the family dip their pancakes to their preference.

Serve them with a refreshing glass of berry protein smoothie or protein milk. If our mini pancakes inspire a craving for a bigger helping, try our delicious protein pancakes for a larger portion that fits as well on the brunch table as it does on the late-night snacking menu.

Ingredient synergy for optimal flavour

The combination of ripe bananas, cottage cheese, and eggs creates a perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours. The natural sweetness of the bananas pairs especially well with the creamy cottage cheese, while the eggs add richness and help bind the batter, resulting in deliciously flavourful pancakes.