These yummy Blueberry Lemon Cottage Cheese Pancake Bites are fluffy, fruity, and perfect for breakfast! Just a mix of cottage cheese, fresh blueberries, and a hint of lemon makes them special.
I love making these on lazy mornings; they’re quick and super satisfying. Plus, they’re like mini pancake treats that make mornings brighter! Who doesn’t love a bite-sized breakfast?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star ingredient, providing a creamy texture. If you want a smoother batter, you can blend the cottage cheese until it’s creamy. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a tangy flavor and thick consistency.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure to the pancake bites. You can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or almond flour for a gluten-free option, but adjust the liquid slightly if needed as these flours can behave differently.
Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are best for flavor and texture. If you have frozen blueberries, use them straight from the freezer to avoid sogginess. Dried blueberries can work too, but they won’t provide that burst of juiciness.
Lemon Zest: The zest adds brightness! If you’re out of fresh lemons, lemon extract can be a handy substitute, but use it sparingly, as it’s more concentrated. You can also use lime zest for a fun twist!
How Can You Make Sure Your Pancake Bites Are Fluffy?
To achieve that fluffy texture in your pancake bites, follow these tips:
- Mix wet and dry ingredients separately. This helps you avoid overmixing, which can make them tough.
- Gently fold in the blueberries instead of stirring. This keeps the batter light and airy.
- Cook at the right temperature—medium heat is best. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too low, and they’ll become dense.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Give each pancake bite enough room to cook evenly.
Blueberry Lemon Cottage Cheese Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to make these delicious pancake bites from start to finish. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, eggs, milk, lemon zest, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. It’s okay if there are a few lumps from the cottage cheese; they will create a nice texture!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Stir together to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently just until combined. Remember, it’s better to mix a little less so the pancake bites stay fluffy!
4. Fold in the Blueberries:
Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries with a spatula. This is where you get those bursty bites of blueberry goodness!
5. Heat the Pan:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
6. Cook the Pancake Bites:
Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the skillet to form bite-sized pancakes. Leave some space in between each one.
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Cook for about 2-3 minutes until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look set. Carefully flip each pancake bite and cook for another 2 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pancake bites from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with extra blueberries and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if you like!
Enjoy these delightful, fluffy, and tangy pancake bites that combine the creaminess of cottage cheese with fresh blueberries and bright lemon flavor!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Yes! Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese. It will give a similar creaminess and add a bit of tanginess to your pancake bites. Just ensure it’s plain, unsweetened yogurt for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Pancake Bites?
Store any leftover pancake bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or on a skillet for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Make These Pancake Bites Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just check that the baking powder is gluten-free as well, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free pancake bites!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can also be a delightful addition. You could even try mixing in some white chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
