Chocolate Oat Protein Pancakes -

A great way to start the day in my household is with home-made protein pancakes. No it’s not a difficult task, really!

Even before my babies graced my world, I was starting the day with these protein pancakes. Originally finding a similar recipe in a fitness magazine, I have made them my own with some great nutritional boosts. Take a look.

So, how can we make these without a lot of hassle?

I have found that once I mix it up, I am able to continue getting my lunches ready, while the kids get dressed. By the time we are all back in the kitchen I am able to plop the batter in my hot pan, with small soup ladle. They cook rather quickly, but if the kids are screaming to eat, I go ahead and give them some fruit…and sometimes, they will grab some carrots to eat too. (yes, no lie!–when you make good-for-you-food readily available, they WILL go for that quicker rather than the not-so-good foods).

A nutritional breakdown

(source of nutrient breakdown: Bowes & Church’s Food Values of Portions Commonly Used, 18th Ed, authored by J. Pennington & J. Douglas):

eggs whites provide protein, niacin, potassium, selenium and phosphorus
oats provide fiber, protein, magnesium, potassium, folate, phosphorus and is also a low glycemic food so you will feel full longer
cocoa powder provides magnesium, fiber, potassium, calcium and phosphorus
flax meal provides omega 3(good for the brain!), fiber, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron

And just think about the other added nutrients with your choice of flavor. Berries add antioxidants and you can add even more protein by topping with yogurt. Mmmm….I am getting hungry!

Chocolate Oat Protein Pancake

1 cup old fashioned oats
3 each medjooled dates
4 large egg whites
2 large eggs, whole
¼ cup flax meal
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
¼ cup cocoa (or 3 tablespoons cinnamon, whatever your desired flavor!)
4 tablespoons milk

Add oats and pitted dates to blender. Blend until most of the dates have broken down and the oats turned more like flour.
Add to a mixing bowl with eggs and remaining ingredients. Whisk together.
Add more liquid to reach pancake batter consistency.
Spray skillet with non-stick spray and heat over medium. Pour batter onto hot skillet using ⅛ measuring cup and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pancakes begin to bubble. Flip and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes.
Chocolate pancakes are great with fresh fruit, butter and your favorite sweetener.