Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Protein Pancake Bites

Looking for a healthy, protein-packed breakfast or snack option? These Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Protein Pancake Bites are a perfect choice! They’re soft, fluffy, and naturally sweetened, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need an easy grab-and-go snack, these pancake bites deliver a balance of nutrients and flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from cottage cheese and oats, these bites keep you full and energized.
2. Easy to Make: Just blend, bake, and enjoy. No need for fancy equipment or techniques.
3. Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands and picky eaters.
4. Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or berries for variety.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: Store them for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cottage cheese
• Ripe bananas
• Oats
• Eggs
• Baking powder
• Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit

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Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, bananas, oats, eggs, and baking powder. Blend until smooth.
3. Add Mix-Ins: If desired, stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or berries.
4. Fill Muffin Tin: Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
5. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bites are set and lightly golden.
6. Cool and Serve: Let them cool slightly before removing from the tin. Enjoy warm or store for later.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 24 mini pancake bites.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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Variations

1. Add Sweetness: Mix in a touch of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
2. Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
3. Nut-Free: Avoid nuts and opt for seeds like chia or sunflower as a mix-in.
4. Dairy-Free: Substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative like almond ricotta.
5. Flavor Boost: Add cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a pinch of nutmeg for added depth.

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Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store the pancake bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.

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FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats work just as well, but the texture might be slightly smoother.

2. Can I replace the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Absolutely, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese.

3. Are these bites suitable for toddlers?

Yes, they’re soft and nutrient-packed, making them ideal for toddlers.

4. Can I make this batter ahead of time?

It’s best to blend the batter fresh for optimal fluffiness, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking.

5. How do I prevent the bites from sticking to the tin?

Use a non-stick spray or line the muffin tin with paper liners to avoid sticking.

6. Can I make these in a regular muffin tin?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the baking time to about 18-20 minutes.

7. What’s the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork or potato masher to mash ripe bananas until smooth before blending.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches if needed.

9. Are these bites low in sugar?

Yes, they rely on the natural sweetness of bananas, making them low in added sugar.

10. What’s a good topping for these bites?

Try a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

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Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Protein Pancake Bites are a delicious, healthy option for busy mornings or snacks. Their easy preparation, versatility, and nutritional benefits make them a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy wholesome, satisfying bites. Whether you eat them fresh out of the oven or reheat them during the week, these pancake bites are sure to become a family favorite!

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