If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both delicious and packed with protein, these Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes are about to become your new favorite. Light, fluffy, and nutrient-dense, they’re perfect for fueling your mornings, post-workout meals, or even a quick, wholesome snack.
Unlike traditional pancakes made mostly of flour and sugar, these pancakes sneak in extra protein from cottage cheese and eggs, while still delivering that classic fluffy texture we all love. You can keep them simple or add your favorite toppings like fresh berries, nut butter, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a complete, satisfying start to the day.
Table of Contents
Print Recipe
Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender or large measuring jug, combine cottage cheese, eggs, and milk. Add sugar and vanilla if using. Blend until smooth.
- Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep pancakes fluffy. If using oat flour, you can blend everything together.
- Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to hydrate the flour and make flipping easier.
- Preheat a nonstick griddle or pan to 325°F. Lightly grease if needed. Pour about ½ cup batter per pancake onto the griddle. Cook 5–7 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook another 5 minutes until golden.
- Let pancakes cool slightly before stacking. Serve with fresh fruit, nut butter, Greek yogurt, or syrup.
Notes
Why You’ll Love Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes
- High in protein: Cottage cheese and eggs create a protein-packed meal that keeps you full longer.
- Fluffy texture: Despite being healthy, these pancakes turn out soft and tender.
- Customizable: Use oat flour for a gluten-free version or egg whites for lower fat.
- Meal prep friendly: Cook a batch ahead of time and reheat throughout the week.
- Perfect for fitness goals: Great for weight management, post-workout fuel, or a balanced family breakfast.
If you loved our Baked Protein Pancake Bowls or Blueberry Protein Pancakes, you’ll want to add this recipe to your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need for high protein pancakes
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cottage cheese | 200 g | Full-fat or low-fat both work |
| Eggs | 2 | Sub egg whites for lower fat |
| Milk | 125 ml | Dairy or plant-based alternatives |
| All-purpose flour | 140 g | Sub oat flour for gluten-free option |
| Baking powder | 1.5 tsp | Helps pancakes rise |
| Salt | Pinch | Balances flavor |
| Oil or butter | ½ tsp | For greasing griddle (optional) |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp | Optional, for sweetened pancakes |
| Vanilla extract | ½ tsp | Optional, adds warmth |
How to make healthy breakfast pancakes Step-by-Step
Step 1: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a blender or large measuring jug, combine cottage cheese, eggs, and milk. Add sugar and vanilla if you want a sweeter version. Blend until smooth.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Don’t overmix—this keeps pancakes fluffy. If using oat flour, you can blend everything together safely.
Step 3: Rest the Batter
Let the batter sit for 5–10 minutes. This helps the flour hydrate and makes flipping easier.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Preheat a nonstick griddle or pan to 325°F. Lightly grease if needed. Pour batter (about ½ cup per pancake) onto the griddle. Cook 5–7 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook another 5 minutes until golden.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Let pancakes cool slightly before stacking. Serve with fresh fruit, nut butter, Greek yogurt, or syrup.
Tips for Perfect low-carb pancakes
- Low and slow: Cooking at moderate heat prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
- Make them savory: Skip the sugar and vanilla, then top with avocado or smoked salmon.
- Batch cooking tip: Freeze leftovers between parchment paper layers and reheat in a toaster.
- Boost protein even more: Stir in a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder.
- Add-ins: Blueberries, banana slices, or dark chocolate chips for variety.
Variations to Try
- Gluten-Free Protein Pancakes: Use oat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Low-Fat Version: Swap whole eggs for egg whites.
- Savory Pancakes: Add herbs, spinach, or shredded cheese for a high-protein savory breakfast.
- Chocolate Protein Pancakes: Mix in 1 tbsp cocoa powder and a sprinkle of chocolate chips.
- Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes: Blend in ½ ripe banana for natural sweetness.
Nutrition Benefits (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 190 | Balanced, lighter breakfast |
| Protein | 12 g | Builds and repairs muscles |
| Carbs | 20 g | Energy for the day |
| Fat | 6 g | Healthy fats from eggs & dairy |
| Fiber | 1 g | Supports digestion |
| Calcium | 12% DV | Strong bones |
| Vitamin B12 | 15% DV | Energy and focus |
Serving Suggestions
These protein pancakes are incredibly versatile. Try them with:
- Classic: Maple syrup and butter.
- Healthy twist: Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and berries.
- Savory style: Avocado slices and smoked salmon.
- Kid-friendly: Peanut butter and banana slices.
- Post-workout: Top with protein yogurt and almond butter.
FAQs – Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes
Do protein-packed pancakes taste cheesy?
No, the flavor is mild and blends into the batter, adding creaminess and protein.
Can I make them without a blender?
Yes, but blending gives the smoothest texture. If mixing by hand, mash cottage cheese first.
Can I freeze these pancakes?
Absolutely. Freeze in layers with parchment paper for up to 2 months. Reheat in toaster or microwave.
Are these pancakes gluten-free?
They can be just substitute oat flour for all-purpose flour.
Can I use flavored cottage cheese?
It’s best to stick to plain cottage cheese to control sweetness and flavor.
Conclusion
These Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. They’re fluffy, satisfying, and packed with protein to keep you energized all morning long.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast, a post-workout meal, or a family-friendly weekend treat, these pancakes fit the bill. With endless topping options and easy swaps, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
For more high-protein breakfast ideas, try our Baked Protein Pancake Bowls or Blueberry Protein Pancakes.
Follow Kenz Recipes on Facebook for more delicious ideas, behind-the-scenes baking, and quick meal tips.