Who doesn’t love the fluffy, comforting embrace of a pancake? But what if you could enjoy those delicious stacks while also fueling your body with protein? Enter Protein Pancakes! This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also incorporates wholesome ingredients that keep you full and satisfied. Whether you’re heading to the gym or just want a hearty breakfast, these pancakes are a game changer. Let’s dive into why these delightful pancakes deserve a spot on your breakfast table.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Protein pancakes are a fantastic alternative to traditional pancakes. They provide a hefty dose of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, making them perfect for post-workout refueling. The combination of oats and Greek yogurt offers a good source of fiber and probiotics, promoting digestive health. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; you can customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. With each bite, you’re not just enjoying a treat; you’re nurturing your body!

What’s in the Bowl

To make these mouthwatering Protein Pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup milk, plus more as needed
1 medium very ripe banana
3 large eggs
½ cup whole milk Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon avocado oil, plus more for the pan
1 tablespoon maple syrup, plus more for serving
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups whole rolled oats
2 scoops protein powder, about ½ cup (I use 365 Organic Pea Protein, Unflavored)
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon sea salt

These ingredients come together to create a delicious stack that’s packed with nutrients!

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before we get started, let’s gather some essential kitchen gear:

Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients
Blender or food processor – for blending the oats and batter to a smooth consistency
Skillet or griddle – for cooking the pancakes
Spatula – for flipping those golden pancakes with ease
Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your ingredients
Serving plates – to present your beautiful stack of pancakes

With your gear ready, let’s move on to the fun part!

Step-by-Step: Protein Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your banana is very ripe; this adds natural sweetness and creaminess to your pancakes.

Step 2: Blend the Oats

In a blender or food processor, add the rolled oats and blend until they reach a fine flour-like consistency. This will be the base of your pancake mix.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the banana, milk, eggs, Greek yogurt, avocado oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the blended oats, protein powder, baking powder, and sea salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If the batter is too thick, add more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Preheat Your Pan

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with avocado oil.

Step 7: Cook the Pancakes

Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the preheated skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Protein Pancakes warm, drizzled with maple syrup and your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Enjoy the heartiness and flavor in every bite!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can easily adapt this recipe:

Replace rolled oats with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb option.
Use unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk to cut down on carbohydrates.
Opt for a low-carb or keto-friendly protein powder.
Skip the maple syrup or use a zero-calorie sweetener if desired.

These simple swaps will keep your pancakes delicious while fitting into your dietary needs!

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Protein Pancakes, there are a few things to keep in mind:

If your pancakes are too thick, add a bit more milk to the batter to thin it out.
Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes; mix just until combined for the fluffiest results.
If they’re sticking to the pan, make sure your skillet is well-heated and greased before adding the batter.
For uneven cooking, ensure your heat is at medium. Adjust as necessary to prevent burning.

Being mindful of these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked pancakes every time!

Shelf Life & Storage

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Refrigerator: Store cooked pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat: To reheat, simply microwave for 30-60 seconds or toast them in a toaster until warmed through.

Enjoy these pancakes at your convenience, whether it’s a quick breakfast or a snack!

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of protein powder?

Absolutely! You can use any unflavored or flavored protein powder of your choice. Just be mindful that flavored powders may alter the taste of the pancakes.

Can I substitute the yogurt for something else?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt, cottage cheese, or even a plant-based yogurt alternative for a dairy-free option.

How can I make these pancakes vegan?

For a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use a plant-based yogurt. Swap the dairy milk for almond milk or any other non-dairy milk.

What toppings do you recommend for these pancakes?

Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas, nut butter, seeds, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup are all excellent choices!

More from the Kitchen

If you enjoyed these Protein Pancakes, you might also love:

See You at the Table

With this Protein Pancakes recipe, you’re all set to enjoy a nutritious and delicious breakfast that fuels your day. They’re a wonderful way to start your morning off right, balancing flavor and health in every bite. So gather your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and whip up a stack of these delightful pancakes. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!