If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast or brunch that is both nourishing and wonderfully simple, this Quick & Easy Cottage Cheese Oven Pancakes with Strawberries Recipe is just what you need to brighten your morning. Imagine fluffy, golden pancakes baked to perfection with the creamy richness of cottage cheese and the juicy freshness of strawberries scattered on top. It’s not just quick and easy, but a truly comforting dish that brings together texture and flavor in every bite. I love how it combines wholesome ingredients with an elegant oven-baked twist, making it a favorite whenever I want something special without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in taste, texture, and appearance. Each one plays an essential role—from the tender crumb created by the flour and baking powder to the tangy sweetness from the strawberries, and the creamy depth provided by cottage cheese. This simplicity is the magic behind this recipe.
- 3 large eggs: The backbone for structure and richness in the batter.
- 1 cup plain cottage cheese: Adds moist creaminess and a subtle tang, perfect for fluffy pancakes.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence: Brings a warm aroma and subtle sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides a bright note that enhances the cottage cheese flavor.
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
- 1/2 cup any type of flour: This gives the pancakes their tender yet sturdy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise, making them light and fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries: Adds freshness, color, and a juicy burst with each bite.
- Powdered sugar: For a pretty finishing touch and gentle sweetness when dusted over.
- Maple syrup: I recommend Mrs. Butterworth’s original syrup for that classic, rich taste.
- Extra sliced strawberries: To serve alongside for added freshness and beauty.
How to Make Quick & Easy Cottage Cheese Oven Pancakes with Strawberries Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms, line a quarter-sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This prep step is crucial to make sure your pancakes don’t stick and slide right off when served.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup of plain cottage cheese, 1 teaspoon vanilla essence, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and your choice of 2 tablespoons sugar or honey. This blend lays the creamy, flavorful foundation for your batter, ensuring a silky and slightly tangy base that keeps every bite irresistibly moist.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk 1/2 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt together thoroughly. This ensures your leavening is evenly distributed so the pancakes rise beautifully and develop a lovely texture throughout.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gently pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined—taking care not to overmix—to keep the batter light and airy. The moment you see a soft, slightly lumpy batter, you’re perfectly on track.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the batter evenly onto your prepared sheet pan and use a spatula to spread it out in an even layer. Then, gently press 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries across the top—these fruity jewels add brilliant color and bursts of natural sweetness while baking. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, until the top is golden and puffed just right.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your oven pancakes are beautifully baked, remove them from the oven. Serve hot, topped with extra sliced strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup if desired. This step is where the dish really comes alive, blending warm and cool, sweet and tangy to perfection.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Cottage Cheese Oven Pancakes with Strawberries Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar make an elegant garnish, but you can also try a few fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream for a little extra indulgence. Each garnish enhances both taste and visual appeal, making your pancakes look as delightful as they taste.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing these pancakes with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory contrast. Fresh fruit salads or a simple green smoothie also work beautifully, adding a refreshing and healthy balance to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, cut these oven pancakes into squares and stack them with layers of yogurt and glazed strawberries for an impressive layered breakfast trifle. Alternatively, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a brunch-dessert fusion guaranteed to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Quick & Easy Cottage Cheese Oven Pancakes with Strawberries Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re cooled completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze any extra portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat the pancakes gently in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that tends to affect texture, making them less fluffy and more rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese is key for this recipe’s texture and flavor, but you could try ricotta for a similarly creamy bite. Just note the consistency may differ slightly.
What if I don’t have fresh strawberries? Can I use frozen?
Frozen strawberries work in a pinch, but be sure to thaw and drain excess juice to avoid making the batter too wet.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free oven pancakes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This particular recipe relies on eggs and cottage cheese for structure and taste, so it would be challenging to make it fully vegan without significant substitutions that change the texture.
How thick should the batter be before baking?
The batter should be somewhat thick but spreadable—like a thick cake batter. It shouldn’t be runny or too dense, which guarantees a fluffy final product.
Final Thoughts
If you want a breakfast that’s both effortless and delicious, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Quick & Easy Cottage Cheese Oven Pancakes with Strawberries Recipe. It’s one of those special dishes that turns simple ingredients into pure magic every time. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a surprise breakfast for someone special, these oven pancakes will quickly become a treasured part of your recipe collection.
Print
Quick & Easy Cottage Cheese Oven Pancakes with Strawberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Quick & Easy Cottage Cheese Oven Pancakes with Strawberries are a fluffy, protein-packed breakfast treat that’s simple to make. Baked to golden perfection and topped with fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup, they offer a delightful combination of tangy cottage cheese and sweet flavors. Perfect for a wholesome morning meal or a tasty brunch option.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup plain cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup any type of flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Toppings
- 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup (such as Mrs. Butterworth’s original syrup), for drizzling
Other
- Butter or cooking spray, for greasing the pan
- Extra sliced strawberries, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a quarter-sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup plain cottage cheese, 1 teaspoon vanilla essence, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons sugar or honey. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt to evenly distribute dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a light and fluffy batter.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter onto the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Scatter 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries on top for flavor and color. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pan from the oven. Serve the pancakes immediately with additional sliced strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Notes
- Use any type of flour you prefer, such as all-purpose or whole wheat.
- For a healthier option, substitute sugar with honey or a sugar substitute.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the pancakes fluffy.
- If you don’t have fresh strawberries, frozen can be used; just thaw and drain well beforehand.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture.
