Apple Cinnamon Protein Pancakes

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Naturally sweetened with fruit, these apple cinnamon protein pancakes are gluten-free and will fill you up while fulfilling any sweet craving in a healthy way.

Pouring syrup on apple cinnamon protein pancakes

If you follow me on Instagram or read my blog regularly, you’ve probably noticed how much I love smoothies and oatmeal. In fact, they are my go-to breakfast most days of the week. But every now and then I crave a hearty stack of warm pancakes. Who doesn’t? That’s why I love these guilt-free Apple Cinnamon Protein Pancakes, and you will, too!

Naturally Sweet, Healthy Pancakes

Instead of the white flour and sugar-laden pancakes that cause blood sugar levels to spike, I encourage you to switch to the magical combination of protein and fiber. Not only will it add texture and flavor to the pancakes, but it will also help sustain your energy levels. And they’re naturally gluten-free!

Another trick? Fresh fruit are a natural source of sugar that not only sweeten the pancakes but also add vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber not found in white sugar.

Oats: Whether rolled or steel-cut, both work wonders as a fiber and antioxidant rich base for pancakes.
Flaxseed meal: Tasteless in the pancakes, but a major contributor of fiber and omega 3 fatty acids.
Protein powder: I use Biochem whey protein powder, vanilla flavored, but you could use any kind! Whatever you have and is your favorite.
Apples: Whether using apple sauce or freshly grated, apples are a deliciously sweet way to add flavor, nutrients, and natural sweetness to cooking and baking.
Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter the flavor. With a natural creamy texture when mashed, bananas are an obvious choice to naturally sweeten things in the kitchen.
Spices: Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add amazing flavor and sweetness.

Here are some more healthy pancake recipes to rotate through your meal plan:

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Protein Pancakes

Begin by grating an apple with a cheese grater, I like using Fuji or gala for their sweetness, but you could use any apple you like.

Next mash a banana up using a fork or potato masher, the riper the banana, the sweeter it’ll be.

Measure out your oats into a large bowl.

Then you’ll add your mashed banana and grated apple.

Followed by the milk of your choosing.

Then you’ll add the flax seed meal, baking powder, and salt.

Next add your delicious spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves.

Mix in your two eggs.

Adding baking powder to a bowl of ingredients

And finish with your protein powder.

Mix all of the ingredients together until fully incorporated into a thick batter.

Onto a pre-heated griddle or pan that’s been sprayed with non-stick spray, dollop about 1/4 or 1/3 cup of batter at a time. Cook each side for about 3 minutes to golden brown.

Serve by themselves, or with pure maple syrup for a delicious, protein packed breakfast.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Make it dairy free. You can easily use almond or oat milk in place of cow’s milk in this pancake recipe, and use a plant based protein powder.
Egg free pancakes. If you can’t have eggs, you can replace them with apple sauce and a pinch of extra baking powder.
No protein powder? No problem. If you don’t have protein powder, you can still make these pancakes without it. If the batter is too runny, you may need to add a little bit of flour or additional oats.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do you lower the cholesterol in pancakes?

If you’re looking to lower the cholesterol in these protein pancakes all you need to do is use 4 egg whites instead of 2 eggs.

How do I store leftovers?

You can freeze them (I talk more about that here) or put them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

When should I eat protein pancakes?

They are best as a breakfast or pre-workout, as the protein keeps you energized throughout the workout.

More Breakfast Recipes

Like It, Eat It, Share It!

Did you try these pancakes and love them? The next time you make them, snap a picture and share it to your socials! Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your dish, I hope you enjoy!

Liz eating apple cinnamon protein pancakes.

Delicious, healthy, and fast, these Apple Cinnamon Protein Pancakes are perfect for breakfast.

Your fork is waiting.