Naturally sweet, packed with protein, and so easy to whip up—these pancakes make the perfect cozy breakfast or healthy snack!
If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and downright delicious way to start your day (or satisfy a snack craving), these Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancakes are just what you need. Made with wholesome ingredients like ripe banana, cottage cheese, and oats, they’re naturally sweet, high in protein, and can be on your plate in under 15 minutes!
Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout bites, or even a fun weekend breakfast with the kids—this simple recipe is going to become a regular in your rotation. Let’s dive in!
🥰 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are a lot of pancake recipes out there—but this one stands out for some very good reasons:
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to the cottage cheese and eggs, each pancake offers a nice protein boost to help keep you full and fueled.
- Naturally Sweet: Ripe banana does all the sweet talking—no added sugar needed!
- Quick and Easy: From mixing to munching, the whole process takes just 15 minutes.
- Kid-Friendly: Soft, fluffy, and subtly sweet—little ones love them too!
- Versatile: Enjoy them warm for breakfast or snack on them cold straight from the fridge.
Whether you’re eating clean, avoiding added sugars, or simply love a cozy, comforting breakfast, these pancakes check all the boxes. 💛
📝 Ingredients (Makes About 6 Small Pancakes)
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- ½ cup cottage cheese – full-fat or low-fat both work!
- 1 ripe banana, mashed – the riper, the sweeter!
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup oats – quick oats or rolled oats; or swap for almond flour if you prefer low-carb
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – for a bit of lift
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – for a warm flavor twist
- Honey or maple syrup, for serving
Optional Toppings: Sliced bananas, berries, chopped nuts, nut butter, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
👩🍳 Directions
This recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together in three easy steps:
Step 1: Mix the Batter
In a medium-sized mixing bowl:
- Mash the banana using a fork until it’s smooth with minimal lumps. A super-ripe banana works best here.
- Add cottage cheese and eggs to the bowl, and stir until everything is combined.
- Mix in the oats, baking powder, and cinnamon (if using). Stir gently.
- Let the batter sit for 2–3 minutes while you preheat the skillet. This allows the oats to soak slightly, which helps thicken the batter.
Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with a bit of oil, butter, or cooking spray.
- Scoop about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake into the skillet. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread into a round shape.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until small bubbles form on top and the edges start to look firm.
- Carefully flip using a spatula, and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Tip: Avoid high heat—these pancakes are delicate and cook best at medium temperature to prevent burning.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your pancakes warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Add sliced bananas, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt on top. Get creative with your toppings and make them your own!
🍽 Serving and Storage Tips
🍴 How to Serve:
These pancakes are perfect on their own, but they shine even more with a few extra toppings:
- Drizzle of maple syrup or honey
- Fresh banana slices or berries
- A spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter
- Sprinkle of chia seeds or chopped nuts for crunch
Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a smoothie for a cozy, balanced meal.
🧊 Storage:
Got leftovers? No problem!
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’re just as good cold, or you can reheat in the microwave or toaster.
- Freezer: Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Keeps well for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen!
Batch cook these for busy weekdays—you’ll thank yourself later.
🧠 Helpful Notes
- Blender Option: For an ultra-smooth, fluffier texture, toss all ingredients into a blender and blend for 15–20 seconds.
- Texture Tip: If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk or water. If too thin, a spoonful of extra oats will do the trick.
- Allergy-Friendly: Want to make it gluten-free? Just use certified gluten-free oats or swap in almond flour.
- No Cottage Cheese? Greek yogurt can be a backup, but cottage cheese gives the best creamy consistency and protein boost.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these pancakes dairy-free?
Yes! Swap cottage cheese for a dairy-free alternative like almond-based yogurt or mashed silken tofu. Just note the flavor and texture may slightly change.
Are these pancakes suitable for babies or toddlers?
Absolutely! These are great for little ones 6+ months. Just skip the honey (for babies under 1 year) and avoid added salt or sugar.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe easily doubles or triples if you’re feeding a family or want leftovers for the week.
Do I have to use oats?
Not necessarily. Oats add great texture, but almond flour, oat flour, or even whole wheat flour can work. Just adjust the amount slightly based on thickness.
💬 Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about pancakes, especially when they’re this easy to make and packed with good-for-you ingredients. These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Pancakes aren’t just delicious—they’re smart fuel for your body and a joy to prepare.
Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful solo breakfast or cooking for the whole family, these pancakes bring a homemade, nourishing touch to any morning. Plus, they’re flexible enough to fit a variety of diets and lifestyles.
So grab that ripe banana, crack a couple of eggs, and let the pancake flipping begin. 🥞