Cinnamon-Banana Protein Pancake Bites are fluffy, nutritious mini pancakes naturally sweetened with ripe banana and packed with protein from cottage cheese and eggs. These bite-sized pancakes are ideal for busy mornings, meal prep, or a wholesome post-workout snack. They are quick to make and easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pancake bites offer a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a protein-rich breakfast or snack. The natural sweetness of banana pairs perfectly with warm cinnamon, while the oats provide satisfying texture. They are portion-friendly, kid-approved, and great for on-the-go fuel. Plus, the recipe is blender-friendly for minimal cleanup and comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ripe banana, mashed
½ cup cottage cheese
½ cup rolled oats
2 large eggs
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
optional: 1–2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Directions
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Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly coat with cooking spray or a small amount of butter.
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In a blender or food processor, combine the mashed banana, cottage cheese, oats, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
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If using, fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
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Drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the hot surface to form small rounds.
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Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and set, flipping gently.
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Serve warm, topped with honey, maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 15 pancake bites (3 servings).
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Add 1 tablespoon of your favorite protein powder for an extra protein boost.
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Use chia seeds or flaxseeds for added fiber and texture.
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Sprinkle with shredded coconut or drizzle with almond butter before serving.
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Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal variation.
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Blend in a few fresh berries for a fruity twist.
Storage/reheating
Store cooled pancake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm gently in a skillet over low heat. These bites also freeze well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make these pancake bites ahead of time?
Yes, they are perfect for meal prep. Store in the fridge or freezer and reheat as needed.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats work well and blend easily for a smoother texture.
How do I keep the bites from sticking?
Make sure your skillet is well-heated and lightly coated with oil or butter before cooking.
Can I make these dairy-free?
You can replace cottage cheese with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, though the texture will change slightly.
Are these pancake bites gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I bake the pancake bites instead?
Yes, bake in a mini muffin tin at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until set.
What toppings pair well with these pancake bites?
Fresh berries, sliced banana, nut butter, honey, maple syrup, or Greek yogurt all complement the flavors.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Simply blend larger quantities and cook in batches.
Will protein powder change the texture?
A small amount of protein powder blends in well, but too much may make the bites denser.
Can I make these without a blender?
Yes, mash the banana well and mix all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl, though the texture may be chunkier.
Conclusion
Cinnamon-Banana Protein Pancake Bites are a delicious, easy-to-make option for a nourishing breakfast or snack. With simple ingredients and customizable add-ins, these mini pancakes fit perfectly into a healthy, balanced diet. Enjoy them fresh off the skillet or make a batch ahead for quick, protein-packed bites all week long.
Print
Cinnamon-Banana Protein Pancake Bites
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 15 bites (3 servings)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon-Banana Protein Pancake Bites are fluffy, naturally sweetened mini pancakes packed with banana, oats, and cottage cheese for a protein boost. Perfect for meal prep, post-workout snacks, or a quick, healthy breakfast!
Ingredients
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1 ripe banana, mashed
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1/2 cup cottage cheese
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1/2 cup rolled oats
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2 large eggs
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp baking powder
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Pinch of salt
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Optional: 1-2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
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Preheat: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly coat with cooking spray or butter.
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Blend the batter: In a blender or food processor, blend banana, cottage cheese, oats, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
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Add mix-ins (optional): Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts if using.
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Cook: Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto the skillet, forming mini rounds. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until golden and set, turning gently.
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Serve: Serve warm with honey, maple syrup, fresh fruit, or Greek yogurt.
Notes
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Boost protein by adding 1 tbsp of your favorite protein powder to the batter.
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Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave.
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Great served with fresh berries or a smoothie for a balanced meal.
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