Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Vanilla

Name: Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Vanilla
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Butter or oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Vanilla for breakfast! They are not only fluffy and delicious, but they also pack a protein punch thanks to the cottage cheese. Each bite brings a delightful vanilla flavor that instantly lifts my spirits. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up these pancakes in no time, making them perfect for both busy mornings and leisurely weekends. Trust me, once you try them, they'll become your go-to breakfast choice!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:53:35.291Z

Making these Cottage Cheese Pancakes was a delightful experience for me. I used to think pancakes were just a weekend treat, but with this recipe, I can have them any day! The inclusion of cottage cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a great texture that I could never achieve with regular pancakes. Experimenting with the amount of vanilla really brought out the sweetness I was looking for.

One tip I discovered is to let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps create fluffier pancakes that rise beautifully when they hit the skillet. Pairing these pancakes with fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup makes them even more indulgent, and they quickly become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fluffy texture that holds up well under toppings
High in protein, making for a satisfying breakfast
Versatile: perfect as is or with your favorite mix-ins

Perfecting the Pancake Batter

When preparing the batter for these Cottage Cheese Pancakes, the key is to strike a balance between a smooth consistency and a light airy texture. After whisking the wet ingredients, ensure that the cottage cheese is well-distributed without being overly blended; small curds will contribute to the fluffiness. Gradually incorporating the sifted dry ingredients prevents the formation of lumps and helps maintain a delicate structure. Aim for a homogenous batter, but leave a few visible specks of cottage cheese for added texture and visual appeal.

If you find that your batter feels too thick, don't hesitate to add a splash of milk or water to achieve your desired consistency. Also, let the batter rest for about five minutes before cooking to allow the baking powder to activate, which can enhance the pancake’s rise during cooking. Keeping an eye on the thickness will ensure that your pancakes achieve the right fluffiness without becoming tough.

Cooking Techniques for Fluffy Pancakes

The cooking temperature of your skillet is crucial for achieving the perfect pancake. Preheat over medium heat and test with a drop of water – it should sizzle and evaporate immediately for optimal cooking. Using a non-stick skillet or griddle, lightly coat it with butter or oil to prevent sticking while allowing for a golden exterior. Pour the batter gently onto the skillet, keeping equal spacing, which helps the pancakes flip easily and cook evenly.

Look for bubbles forming at the pancakes' edges as a sign they need flipping – this typically takes 2-3 minutes. When flipped, the underside should develop a golden hue within another 2-3 minutes. If your pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through. This technique not only keeps them fluffy but helps capture that delightful vanilla aroma.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious start.

Ingredients

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

Once you have everything ready, you're set to make a wonderful breakfast.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your pancakes.

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well using a whisk until smooth. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cottage cheese mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes hot with your favorite toppings such as fresh fruits, maple syrup, or yogurt. Enjoy!

Your delicious cottage cheese pancakes are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter. You can also substitute half of the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, these Cottage Cheese Pancakes are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Fresh fruits like blueberries or sliced bananas add a burst of freshness, while a drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness beautifully. If you're indulging, a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of nuts can elevate them from breakfast to a brunch-worthy dish. I also enjoy adding a touch of Greek yogurt on the side; it adds creaminess and a tangy contrast that pairs perfectly.

For a more decadent twist, try adding a spoonful of chocolate chips or a handful of nuts to the batter before cooking. This variation deepens the flavor profile and adds a delightful crunch, making the pancakes even more satisfying. You can also turn them into a savory version by omitting sugar and adding spices such as garlic powder, which pairs wonderfully with a side of scrambled eggs.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These pancakes can be made ahead of time and stored, making breakfast even more convenient. After cooking, completely cool them on a wire rack to prevent moisture buildup, then stack them between layers of parchment paper and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them – just make sure to use freezer-safe bags or containers, separating each pancake with parchment paper, and they’ll last for up to two months.

Reheating is easy. Simply pop them in the toaster or microwave until heated through, or quickly sauté them in a skillet for a crisp finish. If you prefer fresh pancakes every time, consider halving the recipe; these pancakes can be successfully reduced without affecting the overall fluffy quality. This way, you can enjoy these delicious treats without extra leftovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cottage cheese is best for texture, you can use ricotta for a richer flavor.

→ Is it necessary to add sugar?

You can reduce or omit sugar if you prefer a less sweet pancake or substitute with a sugar alternative.