PBJ Protein Pancakes

Protein for breakfast just makes for a better start to my day. I feel fuller longer, I have more energy to exercise, and, most importantly since I found out I was pregnant, a morning of protein doubles the possibility of me not throwing up before lunch.

Maybe that's not the intro you want to these pancakes, but it is where I am at now, my friends! While I am hoping the nausea subsides in the next few weeks, (I'm 15 weeks now, but who's counting?), I love these pancakes even when I am not pregnant. I think you will too.

This recipe is for those simple 3 ingredient pancakes you've seen all over Facebook and Pinterest: banana, eggs, and milk. But, I made them taste better. Adding Vanilla Quest Protein Powder really adds the fluffiness that a traditional pancake needs, and the extra dash of cinnamon makes them even tastier.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I have to tell you- don't be fooled by those people who say these healthy pancakes taste just like regular pancakes. They don't. I would compare them more to the texture of french toast. And don't think your kids will be totally fooled. Kids are smart. They'll know these pancakes are different. That being said, and I hope we are still friends because I was so honest with you, these peanut butter and jelly pancakes are AWESOME.

I like that I can stack two hot pancakes, smother them with peanut butter and jelly, and know that they have fewer calories and more nutrition than most breakfast cereals. I also love that they are easy to make up, they are a great way to use those browning bananas, and did I mention they taste good?

Because this recipe makes four real-sized pancakes, I have discovered that they reheat very well and are still delicious the next day, smothered in natural crunchy peanut butter and fruit spread. As my kids eat breakfast, search for socks, and try to convince me that a Spiderman costume means that they are dressed (which, often times, is good enough for me), I can get in a satisfyingly healthy breakfast without much extra work.

Can I give you three more tips? Have you read this far?

• Tip 1: Make sure you grease your pan very well. These pancakes like to stick, so use that non-stick spray liberally.
• Tip 2: Really mash up those bananas. You don't want chunks of bananas. That'll be gross.
• Tip 3: Don't heat your pan too high. I cook my pancakes just below medium heat and watch them carefully. If the pancakes look a little dark, no worries. It is nothing a little PBJ can't fix. 

PBJ Protein Pancakes

These easy and healthy banana pancakes are covered with peanut butter and packed with extra protein for the perfect way to start a busy day!

Total time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4-5 pancakes
Ingredients

• 1 banana- ripe and thoroughly mashed
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbs almond milk, or milk
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 scoop Quest Vanilla Protein Powder

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat pan or skillet on medium low heat. In a small bowl whisk together mashed banana, eggs, milk, cinnamon, and protein powder until smooth. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, make 4-5 pancakes. Cook until they bubble slightly and can easily flip with a spatula. Continue cooking on other side until cooked through. Do not overcook.

Bake the bread. Share the slices.