These pancake bites are tiny treats packed with juicy blueberries and a zing of lemon. They’re fluffy, tasty, and perfect for breakfast or a snack!
I love making these for a fun twist on regular pancakes. They’re easy to pop in your mouth, and who doesn’t love a little burst of blueberry goodness? 🍋💙
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for a richer flavor and creamier texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat cottage cheese works too, though it may alter the texture slightly.
Eggs: Eggs provide lift and structure to these pancake bites. For a vegan option, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Flour: All-purpose flour is great, but you can use whole wheat flour for extra fiber or a gluten-free blend if needed. Just be aware this might change the texture a bit!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are best. If you only have frozen ones, you can use those, but try to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Lemon Zest: Adding lemon zest brightens up the flavor. If you don’t have lemons, a bit of lemon extract can be used for similar notes, but use sparingly.
How Do You Get Fluffy Pancake Bites?
To achieve fluffy pancake bites, pay close attention to the mixing process. Overmixing can lead to dense bites. Here’s how to keep them light:
- Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are okay!
- Gently fold in blueberries to prevent crushing them—this keeps the bites airy and light.
- Don’t skip the resting period after mixing, allowing the batter to hydrate and leaven for a few minutes before baking.
Following these tips will ensure your pancake bites are fluffy and delightful every time!
Blueberry Lemon Cottage Cheese Pancake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat preferred)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil for greasing muffin tin
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy morning or a delightful snack anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix The Wet Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine The Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. These will add structure and a touch of sweetness!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixes:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Remember—do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
5. Fold In The Blueberries:
Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries. Be gentle while stirring to avoid crushing the berries; this will keep them whole and juicy in your bites.
6. Fill The Muffin Tin:
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Make sure each one gets some blueberries for that yummy burst of flavor!
7. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Remove:
Once done, take the pan out of the oven and let the pancake bites cool for a few minutes. Then, gently remove them from the tin and let them cool on a wire rack.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, dust the bites with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a fantastic breakfast treat or a delicious snack any time of day!
Enjoy your delightful blueberry lemon cottage cheese pancake bites! 💙🍋
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. If you add them frozen, they may turn the batter a bit purple, but they’ll still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pancake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Can I Make These Pancake Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just give it a gentle stir before filling the muffin tin.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Both will provide a similar texture and creaminess, but expect a slight change in flavor.
