In search of a delicious and protein-packed breakfast that tastes indulgent but still supports your health goals? Look no further!
These High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pancakes are a satisfying, fluffy breakfast option that tastes like a treat but fuels you with all the right nutrients.
Plus, adding cottage cheese offers impressive nutritional benefits, including high protein, vitamins, and minerals that support a balanced diet.
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s extremely difficult to get close to 30g of protein at breakfast without eating a minimum of three eggs (+ other accompaniments) or relying on protein powders.
This recipe manages exactly that while still tasting “naughty” without the protein powder flavors that I personally don't overly like...
The oats add fiber for slow-release energy, while the cottage cheese provides a creamy texture and a big protein boost.
Its high protein content supports muscle recovery and helps keep you full for longer.
It’s also a quick, no-fuss recipe you can make in a blender or a single bowl - perfect for busy mornings. I love making a big batch and freezing extras for a healthy grab-and-go breakfast on a rainy and tired day (which I have many of!).
These pancakes are ideal for anyone following a high-protein diet or looking for a nourishing, energizing start to the day.
Cottage Cheese Pancake Ingredients
- 1 cup/9 oz (225g) cottage cheese:
This versatile dairy product adds creaminess, high-quality protein and a subtle tang which works really well in pancakes! You can use large curd or small curd cottage cheese (large curd has a chunkier texture, while small curd is smoother). - 2 large eggs:
Help bind the mixture and add extra protein. - 1 medium ripe banana:
Adds natural sweetness and moisture (you can omit it if you prefer a thicker, less runny batter). - 1 cup/3.2 oz (90g) rolled oats:
Provide fiber, slow-release carbohydrates and a lovely flavor for breakfast pancakes! - ½ teaspoon baking powder:
Adds lift and fluffiness. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract:
For natural sweetness and aroma (but feel free to omit). - Pinch of salt:
Optional, but enhances flavor. - 1–2 teaspoons butter, coconut or sunflower oil:
For cooking the pancakes.
Method
Step 1: Blend the Batter
In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese (1 cup/9 oz/225g), eggs, vanilla and banana. Blend or whisk until smooth.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the rolled oats (1 cup/3.2 oz/90g), baking powder and salt. Stir or blend briefly until well combined.
Step 3: Let the Batter Rest
Top tip - Let the batter stand for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This allows the oats to soak up the liquid. If you skip this step, the batter will be too runny and difficult to flip.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Preheating ensures even cooking and a golden, crisp exterior without burning. Add a small amount of butter, ghee, or coconut oil. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of batter per pancake into the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with Greek yogurt, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Let the batter rest: Essential for thicker, easier-to-handle pancakes.
- Want a thicker batter? Omit the banana for a less runny, more traditional pancake texture.
- Batch cook and freeze: Double or triple the recipe, layer pancakes with parchment paper, and freeze. Reheat in a toaster or pan for a quick breakfast.
- Cook low and slow: Bananas brown quickly, so medium-low heat ensures even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Cottage cheese pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up to suit any craving - sweet or savory.
For a classic, protein-rich breakfast, top your pancakes with a spoonful of Greek yogurt and a handful of sliced berries. This combo adds flavor, color, and an extra protein boost to support bone and skin health.
If you have a sweet tooth, drizzle pure maple syrup or sprinkle granola for a touch of crunch and indulgence without sacrificing nutrition.
Prefer savory? Try them with a dollop of sour cream and smoked salmon or fresh herbs for a European-inspired twist. Whatever you choose, pairing your pancakes with nutrient-dense toppings helps you get the most from cottage cheese’s many health benefits.
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-free option: Swap the oats for almond flour or certified gluten-free oat flour. Beware if you are substituting oats for almond flour you will significantly change (increase) the calories and fat content of the pancakes!
- Lower fat option: Use low-fat cottage cheese to reduce calories while keeping the protein high.
- Richer flavor: Choose full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture and more satisfying taste.
- Add-ins: Try chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or blueberries for added flavor and crunch.
- Gut health tip: Look for cottage cheese with live and active cultures to support digestion and a healthy microbiome.
Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese Pancakes
These pancakes aren’t just delicious — they’re nutritionally smart:
- High in protein
Around 29.5g of protein per serving (half the recipe) helps with muscle repair, satiety, and steady energy. Cottage cheese offers complete protein with all essential amino acids.
The best thing is the protein comes from a natural source and tastes 100% better than protein powders.
- Rich in calcium
Supports bone health, skin, hair, and nails. Cottage cheese contains key minerals like calcium and phosphorus that help maintain bone density.
- Good source of fiber
Oats promote gut health and long-lasting fullness.
- Naturally sweetened
Banana adds natural sweetness, potassium, and nutrients - no refined sugar required.
- Weight management
High protein and balanced fat content help increase fullness and control appetite.
- Flexible fat content
Choose nonfat, low-fat, or whole-fat cottage cheese depending on your dietary needs.
Blood Sugar Control
Cottage cheese is an excellent choice for blood sugar control due to its low carbohydrate and high protein profile. A half-cup of plain cottage cheese contains only around 5g of carbs.
The casein protein in cottage cheese digests slowly, helping prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes. Pairing it with Greek yogurt or high-fiber foods enhances this stabilizing effect.
For best results, choose plain cottage cheese without added sugar - it supports stable energy levels and healthy appetite regulation.
Gut Health & Pancakes
Cottage cheese pancakes can also be a gut-friendly breakfast. Using cottage cheese with live and active cultures adds probiotics that support digestion and a balanced microbiome.
Topping your pancakes with berries or Greek yogurt adds more fiber and beneficial nutrients that further promote gut health. By incorporating these ingredients, you’re creating a high-protein breakfast that supports bone health, gut health, and overall well-being.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the resting time: Leads to a runny, hard-to-flip batter. Just don't do it - no matter how busy you are. Better to leave it to rest for longer than not enough.
- Cooking on high heat: Burns the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium-low heat instead. Start low and slowly increase the temperature if you find this is insufficient.
- Adding extra banana: More banana makes the batter too loose. One medium banana is perfect.
Nutrition (Per ½ Recipe – About 8 Pancakes)
Approximate values:
- Calories: ~411 kcal
- Protein: ~29.5 g
- Fat: ~11.5 g
- Saturated fat: 2.9g
- Carbohydrates: ~48.5 g
- Sugars: ~11.7g
- Fiber: ~6g
- Sodium: ~472mg
If you’re watching your salt intake, check the sodium content of your cottage cheese - some brands can be higher in sodium than others!
This recipe is also a simple and delicious way to boost your dairy intake, supporting calcium absorption and bone strength. It’s a rare example of a breakfast that tastes like dessert but still delivers nearly 30g of protein - without multiple eggs or protein powders.
Frequently Asked Questions – Cottage Cheese Pancakes
Can I make these without banana?
Yes! Omitting the banana creates a thicker batter and a slightly less sweet pancake. Add honey or maple syrup if you’d like more sweetness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely - just use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I use something other than cottage cheese?
Yes. Cottage cheese is a fresh cheese known for its soft texture and high protein content. You can substitute ricotta or full-fat Greek yogurt, but cottage cheese gives the best protein-to-calorie ratio and fluffiest texture.
How do I store and reheat the pancakes?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster, air fryer, or skillet until warmed through.
Can I add mix-ins like berries or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in fresh or frozen berries or a few dark chocolate chips after the batter has rested - just avoid adding too much moisture.
Why did cottage cheese become popular?
Cottage cheese gained popularity during World War I when the U.S. government promoted it as a protein-rich alternative to meat to conserve supplies for soldiers. It’s since remained a staple for those seeking a high-protein, versatile food that supports a healthy diet.