Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bites with Maple Dip are a delightful treat that brings the best of breakfast and dessert right to your plate. Imagine the comforting flavors of fluffy pancakes infused with cinnamon, all while being packed with protein-rich cottage cheese. These little bites are perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a cozy brunch with friends. Plus, they come with a delicious maple dip that takes them over the top!
What You’ll Need for Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bites
Before diving into the recipe, here’s a handy list of ingredients you’ll need to create these tasty pancake bites:
- 1 cup cottage cheese, blended smooth (about 240g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, about 240ml)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (about 160g)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (about 25g)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or neutral oil (about 30ml)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (for swirl, about 36g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for swirl)
- 1/2 cup plain or vanilla yogurt (for maple dip, about 120g)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for maple dip, about 30ml)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (about 30g)
- Optional: 1/4 cup applesauce (about 60g)
- Optional: 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (about 60g)
- Optional: 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
How to Make Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bites
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the step-by-step guide for making these delicious bites!
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or line it with silicone liners.
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Blend the wet ingredients: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Blend until everything is completely smooth.
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
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Combine mixtures: Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—don’t overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
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Prep muffin tin: Spoon a small layer of the batter into each mini muffin cup. Sprinkle a pinch of the cinnamon brown sugar mixture on top, followed by more batter.
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Create the swirl: Use a toothpick to gently swirl through the batter, combining the cinnamon and sugar without mixing it too much.
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Bake: Place the tin in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, until the bites are golden and slightly springy to the touch.
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Cool: After baking, let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before gently removing them.
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Make the dip: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt and maple syrup for the dip.
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Serve warm: Enjoy your pancake bites warm with a drizzle of the maple dip or serve it on the side for dipping!
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bites
These delightful pancake bites can be served warm, making them perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Arrange them neatly on a plate and drizzle some warm maple dip over the top for an eye-catching presentation. You can also serve them with fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, for an added burst of flavor and nutrition. If you want to elevate your brunch, add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dollop of applesauce or pumpkin puree for extra flair!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For a custard-like texture, make sure to blend the cottage cheese until it’s very smooth. This avoids any curds and gives your bites a pleasant texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stop stirring when the ingredients are mostly combined to keep your pancake bites airy and light.
- Serving idea: Warm the maple dip in the microwave for a thinner glaze-like drizzle.
Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bites FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a different flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover pancake bites?
You can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, flash freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Is it possible to make these bites healthier?
Absolutely! You can omit the sugar or use a natural sweetener and add in items like applesauce or pumpkin puree for added moisture and flavor.
These Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bites with Maple Dip are not just delicious but also easy to make. Give them a try at your next brunch or as a fun breakfast treat, and you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy every bite!