These Fluffiest Cottage Cheese Pancakes are light and airy, making breakfast feel extra special! They feature cottage cheese for a pop of protein and a delightful texture.
I love making these pancakes on lazy weekends—they’re quick to whip up and always bring smiles to the table. Plus, who can resist a fluffy pancake? 🥞
The best part is how satisfying they are! Serve them with fresh fruit or syrup, and you’re all set for a happy breakfast. They’re totally worth the syrup dribbles! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the pancakes! The creaminess adds moisture and fluffiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try ricotta or even silken tofu for a similar texture.
Eggs: Eggs add structure and richness. If you need an egg substitute, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
All-Purpose Flour: A must for the right pancake texture. Whole wheat flour can be used for added nutrition, but keep in mind that it may make the batter denser. Gluten-free flour blends are also a good choice.
Rolled Oats: They give a lovely texture and extra fiber. Quick oats can be substituted if you don’t have rolled oats on hand. You can swap them with almond flour for a low-carb option, too!
Vanilla Extract: Adds delightful flavor. If you don’t have it, almond extract can make a nice substitute. Just use less, as almond is stronger in taste.
How Do I Ensure My Pancakes are Fluffy?
To achieve those light and fluffy pancakes, there are a few key points to focus on:
- Whisk the cottage cheese and eggs until frothy. This incorporates air and helps with leavening.
- Be gentle when mixing in the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes.
- Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the oats to soak up moisture and makes for a fluffier texture.
- Cook on a medium heat to prevent burning. If the skillet is too hot, the pancakes may brown too quickly without cooking through.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the fluffiest pancakes!
How to Make The Fluffiest Cottage Cheese Pancakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (plus more for cooking)
For Serving:
- Fresh blueberries
- Maple syrup
- Lemon zest (for added flavor, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and cooking. These fluffy pancakes come together quickly, making them perfect for a lovely breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and eggs. Whisk them together until everything is well mixed and slightly frothy. This will help create a fluffy texture in your pancakes!
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the dry ingredients! Add in the flour, rolled oats, sugar (if you’re using it), baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir everything together gently until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix! For extra flavor, you can fold in some lemon zest if you’d like.
3. Heat Your Skillet:
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat and add a little melted butter to the pan. This helps prevent the pancakes from sticking and gives them that delicious buttery flavor!
4. Cook the Pancakes:
For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of your batter onto the heated skillet. Cook the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pancakes over and cook them for another 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. They should be soft and fluffy!
6. Keep Them Warm:
Once cooked, remove the pancakes from the skillet and keep them warm while you finish cooking the remaining pancakes.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Stack up those fluffy pancakes on a plate, add a pat of butter on top, sprinkle with fresh blueberries, and drizzle with maple syrup. Enjoy your delicious breakfast!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese Instead of Cottage Cheese?
While cottage cheese is key for the fluffiness of these pancakes, you can substitute ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just be sure to blend it well with the eggs to achieve a similar consistency!
How Can I Make These Pancakes Gluten-Free?
To make these pancakes gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be aware that the texture may vary slightly, but they should still turn out delicious!
Can I Prepare the Batter in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 2 hours in advance! Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken slightly while sitting.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pancakes?
Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just place parchment paper between the pancakes and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or microwave until warmed through.
