These pancakes are unbelievably quick and easy — ready in about five minutes, yet still deliver a satisfying, fluffy texture thanks to cottage cheese and eggs. They’re naturally gluten-free (no flour required), high in protein, and make for a fantastic breakfast, snack or light meal when you’re short on time. The rich creaminess of the cottage cheese gives them a tender bite and the lack of traditional flour keeps them a little lighter and more wholesome.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 large ripe banana, mashed
2 large eggs
½ cup (≈120 g) plain cottage cheese
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Butter or oil, for the pan
Optional toppings: fresh berries, maple syrup, yogurt
Directions
In a blender (or using a mixing bowl and whisk), combine the mashed banana, eggs, cottage cheese, baking powder and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth batter.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake into the skillet, spacing pancakes out.
Cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, until you see bubbles forming and the underside is golden.
Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side is golden and the pancake is cooked through.
Serve immediately with your chosen toppings.
Servings and timing
Serves: 2 people (makes around 6 medium pancakes)
Preparation: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
For a sweeter version: add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey into the batter and top with fresh fruit and syrup.
For a savory twist: omit the vanilla and banana, add a pinch of salt, some chopped herbs (like chives or dill) and top with smoked salmon or sautéed mushrooms.
For extra fluffiness: after blending the batter, let it rest for 1 minute before cooking to allow the baking powder to activate.
For added texture: fold in a handful of blueberries, raspberries or chocolate chips just before cooking.
For a dairy-free alternative: use a dairy-free cottage-cheese alternative (if available) or a well-drained firm tofu blended until smooth.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat: place pancakes on a plate, microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through, or heat in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes per side.
You can also freeze cooked pancakes: layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in toaster oven or skillet for best texture.
FAQs
What kind of cottage cheese should I use?
You can use plain cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat depending on your preference). If you prefer a smoother batter, choose small-curd cottage cheese and consider blitzing it briefly in a blender.
Can I skip the banana?
Yes – though the banana adds natural sweetness and helps bind the batter. Without it, you might need to add a little sweetener (maple syrup/honey) and the texture may be slightly different.
Are these pancakes truly flourless?
Yes — in this recipe there is no wheat flour or other grain-based flour. The banana and eggs serve as the binder along with cottage cheese.
Can I make the batter ahead?
You can mix the batter ahead and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before cooking. After longer storage the baking powder may lose some of its lift so cook promptly for best results.
How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking or burning?
Make sure your skillet is preheated and lightly greased (but not overly hot). Cook on medium rather than high heat so the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes — you can use honey, agave syrup or maple syrup in the batter or as a topping. Just adjust amount to your taste preference.
Are these pancakes high in protein?
Yes — thanks to the cottage cheese and eggs, they provide a good protein boost compared to many traditional pancakes.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes — they already are gluten-free in this version, since no flour is used. Just ensure the rest of your toppings are gluten-free as well.
What toppings work best?
Fresh berries, sliced bananas, a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, a dollop of yogurt (Greek or plant-based) all work well. For savory, try herbs and smoked salmon or sautéed veggies.
Can I double the recipe for more people?
Absolutely — simply double all the ingredients and cook in batches. You may need to cook in two shifts depending on skillet size.
Conclusion
These flourless cottage cheese pancakes are a game-changer when you want something fast, nutritious and satisfying. With minimal ingredients, about five minutes of your time, and plenty of versatility for sweet or savory versions, they make breakfast (or any meal) feel both effortless and elevated. Give them a try, play around with toppings and flavors, and you might just find your new go-to pancake recipe.
These protein-packed, flourless cottage cheese pancakes come together in just 5 minutes and make a light, fluffy, naturally gluten-free breakfast. Made with banana, eggs, and cottage cheese, they’re nutritious, easy, and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
1 large ripe banana, mashed
2 large eggs
½ cup (≈120 g) plain cottage cheese
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Butter or oil, for cooking
Optional toppings: fresh berries, maple syrup, yogurt
Instructions
In a blender or mixing bowl, combine mashed banana, eggs, cottage cheese, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Blend or whisk until smooth.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake into the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until bubbles form and the bottom is golden.
Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Let batter rest for 1 minute after blending for fluffier pancakes.
For a smoother batter, use small-curd cottage cheese or blend until creamy.
Fold in berries or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Use dairy-free cottage cheese or blended tofu for a dairy-free option.
