Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Vanilla

Name: Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Vanilla
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; Pinch of salt; Butter or oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I love starting my mornings with these Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Vanilla. The combination of the creamy cottage cheese and the sweet vanilla creates a delightful texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. With a quick prep time, these pancakes make for a perfect breakfast option that feels indulgent yet healthy. They are fluffy, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Whether you enjoy them plain or loaded with fresh fruits, these pancakes are sure to become a breakfast staple in your home.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:37:34.968Z

When I first tried making Cottage Cheese Pancakes, I was surprised by how easy and delicious they turned out. The cottage cheese not only adds a wonderful creaminess but also boosts the protein content, making these pancakes a filling breakfast. What truly sets these pancakes apart is the hint of vanilla that enhances their flavor.

I experimented with various toppings, and my favorite was a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh berries. The combination of sweet and tangy complements the pancakes perfectly, elevating them to a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fluffy and protein-packed with cottage cheese
Sweet vanilla aroma that fills your kitchen
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these pancakes, adding both moisture and a considerable protein boost. The choice of cottage cheese is important; for fluffier pancakes, opt for the small curd variant, which blends seamlessly into the batter. If you're aiming for a lighter texture, you might consider using low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that this could slightly alter the flavor and richness.

The eggs serve as a binding agent in this recipe, helping the pancakes rise and ensuring they hold together during cooking. For a vegan variation, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal; mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This swap works well while maintaining the structure of the pancake.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pancakes

When cooking the pancakes, the use of a non-stick skillet is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Preheat the skillet on medium heat; if it’s too hot, the pancakes will burn before they’re fully cooked, while too low heat can lead to undercooked interiors. A drop of water should sizzle on contact with the skillet, indicating it’s ready for cooking.

To achieve golden brown edges, ensure that the batter is cooked until bubbly before flipping. Furthermore, try to cook in batches of 2-3 pancakes at a time to maintain the heat of the skillet. If you notice your first pancake turns out darker than desired, adjust the heat down slightly for subsequent batches.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your pancakes:

For the Pancakes

1 cup cottage cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
Butter or oil for cooking

Once you have your ingredients ready, you’re all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for delicious pancakes:

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until golden brown.

Serve Warm

Remove the pancakes from the skillet and serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as syrup, fresh fruit, or a dollop of yogurt.

Enjoy your fluffy cottage cheese pancakes!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding some lemon zest or chocolate chips to the batter for flavor variations!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re looking to meal prep, these pancakes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast solution. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to two months. Reheating from frozen can be done in the microwave or skillet, just be mindful that you may need an extra minute or two to warm them through completely.

For extra variety when storing pancakes, consider freezing a few with different toppings, such as fruits or nuts mixed into the batter prior to cooking. This helps to create a grab-and-go breakfast option that still feels gourmet when you’re short on time.

Ideal Toppings and Serving Suggestions

These cottage cheese pancakes pair wonderfully with a range of toppings. Fresh fruits such as berries or sliced bananas add natural sweetness and a burst of flavor. Alternatively, a drizzle of maple syrup or honey adds richness that complements the vanilla notes beautifully. For a protein boost, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter on top, which also enhances the creaminess from the cottage cheese.

If you’re feeling adventurous, toppings can be varied according to the season. In cooler months, a sprinkle of cinnamon and warm apple compote can mimic a comforting pie experience. For spring or summer, consider citrus zest and a light sprinkle of powdered sugar to enhance freshness without overwhelming the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well in this recipe.

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze them! Place pancakes in a single layer in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months.