Healthy Chocolate Protein Pancakes

Prep time: 10 mins Cook time: 15 mins Total time: 25 mins Serves: 2 Dietary preferences: Vegetarian, Nut-free

Ingredients:

50g (½ cup) whole grain rolled oats

1 tbsp chia seeds

1 tbsp cacao powder

½ tsp baking powder

2 scoops of chocolate flavoured protein powder (optional)

1 large banana, mashed

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

60ml (¼ cup) low-fat milk or dairy-free milk of choice

Fresh strawberries or raspberries, to serve

Pure maple syrup, to serve 

Method: 

1. Place the oats, chia seeds, cacao powder, baking powder and protein powder, if using, into a high-speed blender or food processor and blend until the mix resembles flour. Set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, add the mashed banana, beaten eggs and milk and stir until well combined.

3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix. If the mixture is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Leave to stand for 5 minutes. The batter should be easy to pour.

4. Heat a large non-stick frypan over medium heat and lightly spray with oil spray.

5. Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes until some bubbles appear on the surface. Use a spatula to carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pancake is golden brown. Transfer to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm.

6. Repeat with the remaining batter until finished.

7. To serve the Healthy Chocolate Protein Pancakes, top with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy!

If you decide to add protein powder to this recipe, keep in mind that it will change the texture of the pancakes depending on the type or brand you choose. 

A whey protein powder was used in this recipe but you can experiment with dairy-free types or even different flavours to create your own version!