Cottage cheese pancakes are a perfect blend of creamy, fluffy, and protein-packed goodness.
The recipe brings together wholesome ingredients to create pancakes that are not only delicious but also nourishing.
Whether you’re making a quick weekday breakfast or a slow Sunday brunch, these pancakes are a surefire hit.
Serve them with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Cottage Cheese Pancakes Recipe
Cottage cheese pancakes are a perfect blend of creamy, fluffy. Serve them with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a delightful twist.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Blender (for smoother batter) Optional
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese preferably full-fat for creaminess
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar optional, for a sweeter taste
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Preheat your pan: Place a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.Mix the wet ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Add the dry ingredients: Stir in the flour, baking powder, sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix — a few lumps are fine. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the batter in a blender for 20-30 seconds.Cook the pancakes: Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm: Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve with your favorite toppings — maple syrup, fruit, nut butter, or even a dollop of sour cream.
Video
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 170 mg |
| Sodium | 370 mg |
| Potassium | 150 mg |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 300 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0 mg |
| Calcium | 100 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Serving Size | Approx. 120 g |
Cooking Tips
- Smoother batter: Blend the cottage cheese mixture if you want a less chunky texture.
- Crispier edges: Use a bit of butter for the perfect golden crisp on the outside.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute flour with oat flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Add-ins: Try folding in blueberries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips for variety.
- Keep warm: Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while finishing the rest.
Are There Any Alternative Ingredients?
One of the best things about this cottage cheese pancake recipe is how flexible it can be.
Whether you’re dealing with dietary restrictions, pantry shortages, or just feeling creative, there are plenty of ingredient swaps to explore.
Egg Substitutes
If you’re avoiding eggs due to allergies, dietary preferences, or simply ran out, here are some reliable replacements:
- Flax Egg: Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This equals one egg and adds a mild nutty flavor.
- Chia Egg: Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water. After sitting for 5–10 minutes, it forms a gel-like consistency similar to an egg.
- Mashed Banana: Use ¼ cup of mashed ripe banana to replace one egg. This adds a touch of natural sweetness and a banana flavor — perfect for breakfast vibes.
- Unsweetened Applesauce: Use ¼ cup of applesauce for each egg. It lends moisture and a very subtle fruitiness to the pancakes.
Cottage Cheese Alternatives
Cottage cheese gives these pancakes a creamy richness and protein boost, but you’ve got options:
- Ricotta Cheese: A fantastic 1:1 swap that gives a similarly mild flavor and creamy texture. It makes the pancakes just as fluffy.
- Greek Yogurt (Plain, Full-Fat): Offers a tangier taste and thicker batter. You may need to adjust the flour slightly due to the moisture content.
- Silken Tofu: Blend it until smooth for a dairy-free, high-protein option. It adds moisture and subtle density without much flavor.
- Softened Cream Cheese: For a richer, more indulgent pancake, use cream cheese. However, it will produce a denser result, so blend well and adjust other liquids if needed.
Flour Alternatives
Want to make the recipe gluten-free, more wholesome, or just use what you have?
- Oat Flour: A great whole grain option with a slightly nutty taste. Use in a 1:1 ratio. You can even make your own by blending rolled oats.
- Almond Flour: Low-carb and rich in healthy fats, almond flour works well but is more delicate. Use about ¾ cup almond flour for every ½ cup all-purpose flour and consider adding a binder like an extra egg or flax egg.
- Coconut Flour: Very absorbent, so use sparingly—2 to 3 tablespoons will replace ½ cup flour. You’ll also need to increase the liquid or add an extra egg to balance it out.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Heavier than white flour, but nutritious. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose to retain some fluffiness.
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend: Ideal for a direct 1:1 swap — just make sure it contains xanthan gum or similar for binding.
Sweetener Options
Tailor the sweetness to your taste or dietary needs:
- Maple Syrup or Honey: Natural and flavorful. Use about 1 tablespoon in the batter for a hint of sweetness that complements the cottage cheese beautifully.
- Stevia or Monk Fruit: Great for low-carb or keto options. Use according to the brand’s conversion guide, as they’re much sweeter than sugar.
- Skip the Sweetener: If you’re planning to top your pancakes with syrup, fruit, or jam, you might not need any added sugar at all in the batter.
Flavor Enhancers
Looking to spice things up or try something different? These flavor boosters can elevate your pancakes:
- Lemon Zest or Orange Zest: Just ½ teaspoon of zest adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that works wonderfully with cottage cheese.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Add ½ teaspoon for cozy, warm undertones that pair well with syrup and fruit toppings.
- Vanilla Bean Paste: Use ½ teaspoon in place of vanilla extract for a more intense, gourmet flavor.
- Savory Pancake Twist: Omit the sugar and vanilla, then mix in chopped chives, parsley, or even a pinch of garlic powder. Top with avocado, smoked salmon, or a poached egg for a savory brunch version.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a go-to pancake recipe that’s fluffy, satisfying, and packed with protein, this is the only cottage cheese pancake recipe you’ll ever need.
It’s simple enough for weekday mornings and special enough for weekend brunches.
Plus, with all the customization options and alternative ingredients, you can tailor it to suit any dietary need or flavor craving.
