Copycat Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes Recipe

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What if you could indulge in your favorite stack and fuel your day with a boost of protein? Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes is a game-changer for health-conscious food lovers. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to whip up your own homemade version inspired by Trader Joe’s famous protein-packed pancakes.

How to make Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are a buttermilk-style pancake mix made with added protein. The mix combines whole wheat flour, oat flour, and protein sources like whey protein concentrate, wheat protein isolate, and milk protein concentrate.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• ½ cup oat flour (or ½ cup rolled oats blended into flour)
• ½ cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour, if you prefer)
• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder (choose your favorite brand; whey or plant-based works well)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (for maximum fluffiness)
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1-2 teaspoons sugar, honey, or sweetener of choice (optional, depending on your desired sweetness)

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup cottage cheese (adds creaminess and protein)
• 2 egg whites (or 1 whole egg, depending on your preference)
• ½ cup milk of choice (unsweetened almond, oat, or regular milk all work)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or butter (for extra moisture and richness)

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed (for even more fiber and healthy fats)
• A handful of blueberries, chocolate chips, or banana slices (to level up the flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Mix: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour, whole wheat flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Blend the Wet Ingredients: In a blender or a medium mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese, egg whites, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter or coconut oil until smooth. This step helps incorporate the cottage cheese thoroughly for a creamy texture.
3. Combine the Batter: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a spatula or whisk until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the pancakes dense. If the batter looks too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to thin it out.
4. Preheat the Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with cooking spray, butter, or oil.
5. Cook the Pancakes: Use a ¼ cup measuring cup to scoop the batter onto the hot skillet. Cook each pancake for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges set. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side, until golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Stack the pancakes on a plate and top them with your favorite toppings: fresh fruit, a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even almond butter!

Tips for Perfect Protein Pancakes

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh to achieve the fluffiest pancakes.
• Customize Your Protein Powder: If you’re using an unsweetened protein powder, consider adding a touch of extra vanilla extract or a sweetener. On the flip side, if you’re using a flavored protein powder, skip the extra sugar.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing your batter can lead to tough pancakes. Stir until the ingredients are just combined—lumps are okay!
• Watch the Cooking Temperature: Keeping the skillet on medium to low heat prevents burning and ensures the pancakes cook evenly.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra pancakes and freeze them for quick breakfasts throughout the week. Just reheat in the toaster or microwave, and they’re good to go!

What to serve with

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are a satisfying breakfast on their own, but when paired with the right sides and toppings, they become an unforgettable, well-rounded meal.

• Fresh Fruit: Sliced bananas, fresh berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries), or diced apples are all fantastic choices. The natural sweetness and vibrant color brighten the Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes.
• Nut Butters: Drizzle almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter over your stack for an extra boost of healthy fats and protein. Look for all-natural options without added sugars or oils.
• Maple Syrup or Honey: A drizzle of pure maple syrup or honey adds the perfect amount of natural sweetness. For a lower-sugar option, try sugar-free syrup or monk fruit syrup.
• Greek Yogurt or Cottage Cheese: Dollop some tangy Greek yogurt or a spoonful of cottage cheese on your Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes. These options complement the protein-packed theme and add a creamy texture.
• Chopped Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle pancakes with chopped walnuts, almonds, pecans, chia seeds, or hemp seeds for an extra crunchy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
• Chocolate or Caramel Drizzles: Treat yourself with dark chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate or caramel on top for a decadent breakfast fit for a special occasion.

Ingredients Substitutes

If you’re recreating Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes at home, you may find yourself without one or two of the key ingredients—or perhaps you’d like to tweak the recipe to fit your dietary preferences.

Dry Ingredient Substitutes

1. Oat Flour

If you don’t have oat flour, here are a few alternatives:

• Blended Rolled Oats: Simply blend rolled oats in a food processor to make homemade oat flour.
• Almond Flour: Adds a slightly nutty flavor and keeps the pancakes gluten-free. You may need to adjust the quantity (use about ⅔ cup almond flour instead of ½ cup oat flour).
• Coconut Flour: For keto-friendly pancakes, substitute coconut flour, but use only ⅓ cup because it absorbs more liquid.
• All-Purpose Flour: This works well if you’re not avoiding gluten.

2. Whole Wheat Flour

Don’t have whole wheat flour? Here are some substitutes:

• All-Purpose Flour: An easy 1:1 substitute for a classic pancake flavor.
• Buckwheat Flour: Perfect for gluten-free pancakes; it’s hearty and flavorful.
• Gluten-Free Flour Mix: Use a store-bought gluten-free flour blend for easy swapping.

3. Vanilla Protein Powder

Protein powder is the star of the recipe, but if you don’t have it or want alternatives:

• Plain Protein Powder: If the vanilla flavor is unavailable, use plain whey or plant-based protein powder and add extra vanilla extract to balance the flavor.
• Collagen Powder: Collagen peptides work as a substitute, providing protein and a smooth texture.
• Greek Yogurt (in wet ingredients): If you don’t have protein powder, add Greek yogurt to the wet mix for extra protein.
• Peanut Flour or PB Fit Powder: These provide protein along with a nutty flavor twist.

Wet Ingredient Substitutes

4. Cottage Cheese

If cottage cheese isn’t your thing or you’re avoiding dairy:

• Greek Yogurt: Plain unsweetened Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative. If using a flavored variety, avoid extra sweeteners.
• Silken Tofu: This works well for a vegan option and gives a creamy texture to the pancake batter.
• Mashed Banana: While lower in protein, banana adds moisture and sweetness. Reduce the sugar in the recipe if using this option.

5. Egg Whites

Eggs act as the binder and boost protein content. If you’re looking for substitutes:

• 1 Whole Egg: You can swap egg whites with one whole egg for richer flavor and texture.
• Flax Eggs or Chia Eggs: For a plant-based alternative, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let sit for 5 minutes. Use this in place of egg whites.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Perfect for vegan or egg-free options, applesauce can replace eggs at a ratio of ¼ cup per egg.

6. Milk of Choice

If you don’t have milk or need a dairy-free substitute:

• Almond Milk: A neutral, nutty alternative that works perfectly in the recipe.
• Oat Milk: Creamier than almond milk and great for moisture.
• Soy Milk: A high-protein, non-dairy option that aligns well with the pancake’s theme.
• Coconut Milk: Adds a rich, tropical twist—perfect for slightly sweeter pancakes.
• Water: In a pinch, use water, but your pancakes may lack the creamy texture milk provides.

7. Butter or Coconut Oil

Butter or coconut oil adds richness, but here are substitutes:

• Unsweetened Applesauce: Use 1 tablespoon of applesauce instead of butter for a lighter option.
• Mashed Avocado: Works well for savory pancakes, adding creaminess and healthy fats.
• Olive Oil or Canola Oil: Neutral oils work well as a swap for melted butter or coconut oil.
• Ghee: For a lactose-free alternative with added richness.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are so versatile they fit into any flavor profile you’re craving.