Protein pancakes

Protein pancakes

15 min
Boost your day with our inviting protein pancakes! Blending the sweetness of bananas with the smoothness of cottage cheese, these pancakes make for a snack that's as protein-rich as it is delicious. Perfect for jumping from one daily challenge to the next, or as part of a breakfast or brunch, this is a recipe to earmark. Treat yourself to these gorgeous pancakes crowned with banana slices, blueberries, and a hint of maple syrup.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/protein-pancakes/

Instructions

  • Peel and mash the bananas. Add cottage cheese, eggs, flour and baking powder. Whisk into a batter.
  • Heat some of the butter in a frying pan. Press the batter into the pan and bake the pancakes for about 2 minutes per side.
  • Top the protein pancakes with sliced ​​banana, cottage cheese and blueberries. Drizzle over a little maple syrup.
Enjoy!

Questions about protein pancakes

Prepare a batch of your favourite protein pancakes with confidence. If you're wondering what the secret is to extra fluffy pancakes, or how to make them in advance, look no further. Our FAQ section provides straightforward answers to help you master your skills.

Can I make the batter in advance?
Definitely! Prepare the batter and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir the batter well before using, as ingredients may separate over time. Keep in mind that your pancakes might be slightly less fluffy as the leavening agent (baking soda) becomes less effective over time, especially after the 24-hour mark.
What is the secret to fluffy protein pancakes?
The secret lies in a few key techniques. First, avoid overmixing the batter; small lumps are okay, as overmixing can result in dense pancakes. Letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking will also allow the ingredients to hydrate fully, contributing to a better texture. Lastly, cook the pancakes over medium heat to ensure golden-brown exteriors while keeping the pancakes fluffy inside. By following these tips, you'll master the art of making irresistibly fluffy protein pancakes every time.
Can I use frozen blueberries for the topping?
Yes, frozen blueberries are convenient and can be just as delicious as fresh ones, adding a burst of fruity sweetness and a delightful contrast to the fluffy pancakes. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving. If you prefer softer and juicier blueberries, warm them gently in the microwave before serving.
How ripe should the bananas be?
Very ripe or even overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots on the peel work best for this recipe. Riper bananas are sweeter and easier to mash, which enhances the flavour and texture of the pancakes. If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can speed up the process by placing them in a brown paper bag or warming them slightly in the oven.

Ingredients

Bananas
2
Cottage cheese
250 g
Eggs
4
Plain flour
60 g
Baking powder
1 tsp
3 tbsp
Topping
Banana
1
Cottage cheese
250 g
Blueberries
175 g
Maple syrup to taste

Keep your pan at medium heat for perfect pancakes

To get the best protein pancakes, heat your pan to medium before you start. To test its temperature, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the pan: if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it's likely hot enough. You can also place a small pat of butter on the surface; if it sizzles and liquifies quickly without burning, the pan is ready. Over time, you'll develop a feel for the right temperature through experience.

Also watch the heat as you cook. If your pancakes brown too fast or you see smoke, turn it down to medium-low. Paying attention to the heat helps make every pancake come out just right.

Storage tips to keep leftovers fresh

To keep your protein pancakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container, where they will keep for up to two months. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or a toaster.

Prevent your protein pancakes from sticking

To prevent your protein pancakes from sticking, start with a well-seasoned non-stick pan or a lightly greased skillet. Use a small amount butter to coat the pan evenly before heating. Ensure the pan is preheated (see above for tips) and let the pancakes cook undisturbed until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear set before flipping. Between batches, wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and reapply a light coating of butter if necessary.

Enhanced presentation techniques

To elevate the presentation of your protein pancakes, start by stacking the pancakes neatly on a plate, ensuring they are uniform in size for a polished look. Drizzle a swirl of maple syrup over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Our recipe recommends fresh banana slices, blueberries and cottage cheese as toppings, each adding both texture and visual appeal. Garnish with a few mint leaves for a pop of colour and freshness. These presentation tips not only make the pancakes visually appealing but also elevate the snacking experience, making each bite as delightful as it looks.

Pairing suggestions for your protein pancakes

Pair your protein pancakes with complementary flavours like a berry protein smoothie featuring bananas, raspberries and cottage cheese. Or introduce new combinations by adding a mango protein smoothie or a refreshing protein milk to your snacking experience.

A plate of protein cookies, protein bars, or chewy protein flapjacks are also great additions that bring a welcome crunch and chewy contrast to the fluffy pancakes.

Optimising ingredient temperatures

Getting your ingredients to the right temperature is vital for the perfect protein pancake batter. Let the eggs cottage cheese sit at room temperature before mixing. This step helps them blend smoothly, preventing lumps and resulting in a better batter. Room temperature ingredients also interact more effectively with baking soda, contributing to a fluffy texture.

The batter's temperature matters when cooking, too. If it's too cold, you might get pancakes that are brown outside but undercooked inside. Using ingredients at the same temperature helps ensure your pancakes cook through evenly and stay fluffy. So, before mixing your batter, make sure your main ingredients are at room temperature for the best consistency and flavour.

Transform your leftovers into new snacks

Leftover protein pancakes can be transformed into delicious snacks. Consider cutting them into smaller pieces and using them as a base for mini pancake sandwiches filled with almond butter. Another idea is to crumble them into a bowl and layer them with fresh fruit and skyr, a thick and creamy Icelandic-style yoghurt that is naturally high in protein.

You can also repurpose them as a soft and fluffy topping for your next protein chia pudding or cheesecake overnight oats. These creative ideas ensure that your leftover protein pancakes never go to waste and provide tasty options for any time of day.