Blueberry Cottage Cheese Pancake Bites – Air Fryer or Oven, High-Protein & Sweet

There’s something about Sunday mornings that just begs for a special breakfast. It’s a time when my family and I gather around the kitchen table, eager to catch up on the week and enjoy something delicious together. One of my family’s all-time favorites? Blueberry Cottage Cheese Pancake Bites – Air Fryer or Oven, High-Protein & Sweet. These little bites of joy are perfect for those lazy mornings when we want something comforting but also a bit nutritious. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for a relaxed family breakfast or brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Pancake Bite Recipe

• High-Protein Goodness: With the cottage cheese and eggs, these pancake bites are packed with protein, making them a satisfying option that’ll keep you full and energized throughout the morning. This makes them an excellent choice for those who are looking to start their day with a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The protein content also supports muscle repair and growth, ideal for those leading an active lifestyle.
• Quick and Easy: Whether you’re using the air fryer or the oven, these bites come together in no time, with minimal fuss and mess. This means more time to enjoy with your family and less time spent cleaning up, a huge bonus on those laid-back weekend mornings. The ease of preparation means even novice cooks can achieve great results, making this a fun project for kids to help with too.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet burst of blueberries in each bite, making these a hit across all ages. The natural sweetness of the blueberries means there’s no need for added sugar, which is always a plus when cooking for little ones. Plus, the small, manageable size of each bite is perfect for little hands, encouraging kids to try new foods.
• Versatile: They’re just as delicious warm out of the oven as they are chilled, making them great for breakfast, snacks, or even a quick dessert. Their portability makes them a great option for on-the-go breakfasts or as a lunchbox treat. You can also serve them as part of a brunch spread alongside other favorites like scrambled eggs or yogurt parfaits.
• Accessible Ingredients: These bites use ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge, making them super convenient to prepare anytime the craving strikes. No need for a special trip to the grocery store! You can also easily substitute ingredients based on dietary needs or preferences, such as using almond flour for a gluten-free option.

The Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18-22 minutes (oven) or 10-12 minutes (air fryer)
Servings: 12 bites
Calories: Approximately 85 per bite

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ ripe banana, mashed
• ½ cup oat flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep: For oven lovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or line it with parchment cups. If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 320°F (160°C) and prepare your silicone molds. Preheating is crucial to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Silicone molds are perfect for the air fryer because they withstand high temperatures and make for easy cleanup.
2. Blend the Batter: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, mashed banana, honey (if using), and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth. Add in the oat flour, baking powder, and salt, then blend or whisk until your batter is lump-free. Blending the batter not only helps with texture but also integrates the flavors beautifully. The banana adds natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring your bites are deliciously tender.
3. Add Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries with a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step ensures that each bite is bursting with blueberries, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy batter. If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them; this helps prevent the batter from turning purple.
4. Bake or Air Fry: For the oven, spoon the batter into your muffin cups, filling them ¾ full, and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden. If you’re using an air fryer, fill the silicone molds ¾ full and cook for 10–12 minutes until they’re fluffy and cooked through. Adjust cooking time based on your equipment for the perfect bite. You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
5. Cool & Serve: Let the bites cool for about 5 minutes before removing them from the tin or molds. Serve them warm or chilled, perhaps with a little drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt on top. The cooling step helps them set and makes them easier to handle. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top before serving.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Blender: Essential for getting that smooth batter. A high-speed blender can make this process even faster and more efficient. It’s a handy tool that can be used for many other recipes, from smoothies to soups.
• Mini Muffin Tin or Silicone Molds: Perfect for shaping those bite-sized treats. Silicone molds are particularly great as they make popping out the pancake bites a breeze. They are also easy to clean and store.
• Spatula: To gently fold in those precious blueberries without bursting them. A silicone spatula is ideal for scraping down the sides of the blender to ensure every bit of batter is used.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient amounts, ensuring consistency and flavor balance in your bites. Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture and taste every time.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

• Cottage Cheese: This is the hero of our pancake bites, providing a rich source of protein and a creamy texture. It’s also rich in calcium and can help support bone health. Cottage cheese is low in fat and carbs, making it a great option for a balanced diet.
• Eggs: They help bind everything together while adding even more protein and fluffiness. Eggs are also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins which are crucial for energy production.
• Banana: A natural sweetener that not only adds flavor but also moisture, reducing the need for added sugars. Bananas are also a good source of potassium, which is important for heart health. They add a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the blueberries.
• Oat Flour: A whole grain option that’s gluten-free and adds a slightly nutty flavor. Oats are known for their heart-healthy benefits, making them a nutritious choice. They provide fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full longer.
• Blueberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and add a burst of sweetness and color to every bite. They’re also known for supporting brain health and reducing inflammation. Blueberries add a delightful juiciness that pairs perfectly with the creamy batter.

What to Serve With This Pancake Bite Recipe

These pancake bites are quite versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• A fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing complement that adds even more vitamins and fiber to your meal. The vibrant colors and flavors of mixed fruits like melon, berries, and citrus provide a beautiful and nutritious contrast.
• Some crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the pancake bites. The saltiness of the bacon or sausage enhances the flavor profile of the meal.
• A smoothie or some freshly squeezed juice to keep the meal feeling fresh and vibrant, adding an extra dose of vitamins and hydration. Try a green smoothie with spinach, apple, and ginger for a refreshing start to your day.

Storage & Leftover Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence in my house!), these bites store beautifully:

• Refrigerate: Place them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re great cold or can be warmed up in the microwave for a quick snack. You can also reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or air fryer for that fresh-baked taste. This makes them a convenient option to have on hand for busy mornings.

I hope you and your family enjoy these Blueberry Cottage Cheese Pancake

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