These blueberry cottage cheese pancake bites are fluffy little treats packed with fruity goodness. They are perfect for breakfast or a snack, and who doesn’t love tiny pancakes?
Making these is so easy! I mix up the ingredients, drop them in the pan, and watch them puff up. Plus, the blueberries burst with sweetness — yum! You won’t be able to resist having seconds.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Use small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based yogurt like almond or soy, though the flavor may change slightly.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together, but you can swap them for 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan option.
All-Purpose Flour: If you want a whole grain option, substitute with whole wheat flour or almond flour, but keep an eye on the moisture level; you might need a bit more liquid.
Sweetener: You can adjust the sweetness to taste! If you’re cutting sugar, try using banana or leave it out entirely for a more tart flavor.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are best, but if they’re out of season, frozen blueberries will work too. Just be sure not to thaw them beforehand to avoid mushy bites!
How Do I Ensure My Pancake Bites are Perfectly Fluffy?
To achieve the fluffiest pancake bites, the key is not overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Here are some handy tips:
- Mix until just combined to retain air in the batter, which helps them rise.
- Be gentle when folding in the blueberries; this helps keep the batter light and fluffy.
- Check for doneness around the 15-minute mark. Remove them when they’re golden to prevent drying out.
- Let them cool slightly in the pan before removing. This helps them set up without breaking apart.
Following these tips will help you whip up some delightful pancake bites that are fluffy, moist, and bursting with blueberry goodness!
Blueberry Cottage Cheese Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (plus extra for garnish)
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
- Powdered sugar or coconut flakes for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, so you can have fluffy, delicious pancake bites ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the right temperature to ensure your pancake bites cook evenly. While the oven warms up, get your mini muffin pan ready by lightly greasing it with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of cottage cheese, 3 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. The cottage cheese will add creaminess and protein to your pancake bites!
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey (if using). This mixture will help your bites rise and become fluffy, so stir well to combine.
4. Bring It All Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t mix too much, or your pancake bites may turn out dense!
5. Add Blueberries:
Carefully fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries, making sure not to crush them. These will provide bursts of fruity goodness in every bite!
6. Fill the Muffin Pan:
Using a spoon, fill each cup of the mini muffin pan about 3/4 full with the batter. This will give them room to rise without overflowing.
7. Bake:
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the pancake bites cool in the pan for a few minutes before removing them gently. This makes it easier to take them out without breaking!
9. Enjoy:
Serve these warm with extra blueberries on top and a sprinkle of powdered sugar or coconut flakes if you like. Enjoy your soft, fluffy pancake bites as a delightful breakfast or snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can try ricotta or low-fat cottage cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Pancake Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
Can I Make These Pancake Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, especially any added sweeteners or flavorings.
What Can I Serve with These Pancake Bites?
These pancake bites are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with maple syrup, yogurt, or fresh fruit for added flavor!
