There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of bananas and cinnamon—warm, cozy, and just sweet enough. These Cinnamon Banana Protein Pancake Bites are bite-sized powerhouses, perfect for breakfast on-the-go, meal prep, or a healthy snack. Packed with protein, fiber, and natural sweetness, they’re soft, fluffy, and totally addictive. You won’t believe how easy they are to whip up!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these fluffy, cinnamon-spiced bites of goodness:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- ¾ cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: mini chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for mix-ins
How to Make Cinnamon Banana Protein Pancake Bites
These bites come together fast, and they’re great straight from the oven or chilled for later.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with silicone liners.
Step 2: Blend the Batter
In a blender or food processor, combine bananas, cottage cheese, eggs, oats, protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, vanilla, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. (This ensures a fluffier texture and even distribution.)
Step 3: Add Optional Mix-Ins
If desired, stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin
Pour the batter evenly into the mini muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Helpful Tips
- Use overripe bananas for natural sweetness and a moist texture.
- No blender? Mash the bananas well and whisk everything by hand—it still works!
- Meal prep friendly: Make a double batch and freeze the extras.
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cottage cheese and a plant-based protein powder.
- No Protein Powder: Substitute with 2 more tablespoons of oats and a bit of maple syrup for sweetness.
- Add-ins: Try raisins, shredded coconut, or chopped apples for variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without protein powder?
Yes! Simply replace the scoop with 2 tbsp extra oats and optionally add a bit of honey or maple syrup.
Can I cook these on a skillet instead of baking?
Absolutely. Scoop small dollops onto a greased skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
How much protein per bite?
It varies based on your protein powder, but typically about 4–5g per bite if using whey.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Freezer: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or reheat in the microwave.
More Recipes to Try
Love these pancake bites? Here’s more healthy inspiration:
- Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Muffins – Moist, fluffy, and packed with protein.
- Flaxseed Banana Protein Pancakes – A heartier pancake with nutty flavor.
- Apple Cinnamon Oat Bites – Another spiced snack with cozy fall flavors.
- Peanut Butter Banana Blender Muffins – Perfect for meal prep and kids!
These Cinnamon Banana Protein Pancake Bites are like little hugs in food form—soft, sweet, and nourishing. Whether you’re grabbing a few before a workout or enjoying them with your morning coffee, they’ll give you a wholesome energy boost with a side of comfort. Try them once, and you’ll keep coming back for more!