Did you know that, according to the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, approximately one billion people worldwide don’t consume enough protein? If you’re one of those billion people, we’ve got some good news for you…
You can easily add more protein to your daily diet by incorporating protein pancake mix into your breakfast routine! Yep, protein pancake mix can be used to make delicious and healthy pancakes in minutes.
In addition to providing you with an energizing boost in the morning, protein pancakes can help keep you feeling full throughout the day. However, there are many ways you can incorporate them into your breakfast.
Stay tuned to learn about the benefits of protein pancakes, why they’re great for most diets, and even a few recipes to help you make the most delicious pancakes you’ve ever tasted.
Why You Need More Protein for Breakfast
It's no secret that protein is an important part of a healthy diet. But did you know that protein is especially important for breakfast? Oh yeah. Protein helps to jump-start your metabolism and gives you energy to power through your morning.
Not to mention, protein helps to keep you feeling full longer. How does it do this? Protein helps to regulate blood sugar levels, keeping you feeling fuller for longer and preventing those pesky mid-morning cravings.
It also provides essential nutrients that help to support a healthy metabolism. If you're looking to lose weight or build muscle, protein is especially important. Breakfast is the perfect time to get in some protein, and there are plenty of delicious ways to do it.
Add some eggs or Greek yogurt to your morning routine, or enjoy a protein-packed smoothie for a quick and easy option on the go. No matter how you do it, make sure you're getting enough protein at breakfast time for optimum health and well-being.
Are Protein Pancakes Good for Breakfast?
Well, we’ve already established that protein is an essential part of a healthy, well-rounded breakfast. So, yep, protein pancakes are good for breakfast!
Protein is an essential nutrient that helps to build muscle, repair tissue, and produce enzymes and hormones. Therefore, eating protein pancakes for breakfast can help you start your day off on the right foot and reach your fitness goals.
What are they though?
Protein pancakes are a type of pancake that contains protein powder in the batter. They are often eaten as a post-workout meal or as a healthy breakfast option.
Usually, you make them with protein powder, eggs, milk, and flour. Some recipes also include baking powder, salt, and oil. And, you can make protein pancakes in a variety of flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
Wanna add other ingredients that help add healthy fats, omega-3, and fiber? Go ahead! The best pancakes are often served with fruit, syrup, and yogurt. However, we also suggest throwing in some chia seeds, fresh fruit, and healthy nuts.
The Benefits of Protein Pancakes
Protein pancakes are a great way to start your day. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide you with the nutrients you need to power through your morning workout. Here are some of the benefits of protein pancakes.
They Help You Build Muscle
Protein is essential for muscle growth, and pancakes made with whey protein powder can help you meet your daily requirements. What’s going on in your body when you consume protein like that, though?
Basically, when you exercise, your muscles are broken down, and protein is needed for the rebuilding process. However, protein in general plays a role in everything from cell repair to hormone production.
Ultimately, in order to build muscle, your body needs to be able to synthesize new proteins. This process is stimulated by exercise, and it's how muscles grow larger and stronger. However, without enough protein in the diet, this process can't occur.
That's why people who are trying to build muscle need to make sure they're getting enough protein. The best way to do this is through dietary sources, such as...you guessed it, protein and protein pancakes!
They Can Boost Your Metabolism
Protein takes longer to digest than carbs, which means it can help you burn more calories throughout the day. However, if you’re interested in the science behind it all then it’s important to first understand how our metabolism works.
Our metabolism is the process by which our body breaks down food and converts it into energy. When we eat food, our digestive system breaks it down into nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. These nutrients are then used by our cells to create energy.
Protein is a particularly important nutrient when it comes to boosting our metabolism. That's because protein requires more energy to break down than either carbohydrates or fats. In other words, our bodies have to work harder to digest protein-rich foods.
This means that we burn more calories when we eat protein-rich meals. And since calorie burning is synonymous with metabolic rate, this increase in calorie burning can lead to an overall boost in our metabolism. So if you're looking to fire up your metabolism, be sure to include plenty of protein in your next meal!
After all, nobody said protein pancakes always had to be only for breakfast…
They’re a Healthy Alternative to Traditional Pancakes
Protein pancakes are often seen as a healthier option than regular pancakes. This is because protein pancakes tend to be made with healthier ingredients, such as protein powder, oats, and egg whites.
In contrast, regular pancakes are often made with refined flour, sugar, and butter. As a result, protein pancakes tend to be lower in calories and fat, and higher in protein and fiber.
Furthermore, protein pancakes are typically cooked without oil or butter, further reducing their calorie and fat content. This is especially true if you’ve opted for a whole wheat pancake mix.
Ultimately, protein pancakes are a healthier choice for those looking to watch their waistline. However, it is worth noting that protein pancakes may not be suitable for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities, as protein powders often contain gluten.
But, the simple fix to that is to look for the right protein powder. There are plenty of options available on the market now for those with gluten allergies or dairy restrictions.
They’re Versatile
You can top your protein pancakes with fruit, nuts, or even chocolate chips for a tasty treat. In this sense, protein pancakes are about as versatile as overnight oats or regular protein-packed oatmeal.
Really, if you’re trying to learn how to eat more protein and you’re tired of chicken, eggs, and regular protein powder, we can almost guarantee that some protein pancakes will spice up your diet and your morning.
They’re Easy to Make
Sure, protein pancakes can help you feel fuller longer. And while this means that you're less likely to reach for unhealthy snacks later in the day, the filling power of protein can also help you stay on track with your weight loss goals.
However, outside of pure nutritional benefits, protein pancakes are easy to make. With the right protein pancake mix, you can whip up a batch in just a few minutes, so there's no excuse not to enjoy them!
Plus, there are endless ways to customize protein pancakes to suit your taste buds.
So what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy the benefits of protein pancakes! Oh, you’re waiting on a few ideas? Don’t worry; we’ve got you!
Keep scrolling to learn more about the different types of protein pancakes you can make so that you can find your perfect flavor profile and then dig into a recipe.
The Different Types of Protein Pancakes
Okay, so by now you hopefully understand the powerful benefits of adding protein powder to your pancakes for a healthy, nutritious breakfast.
But, maybe you’re still not sure about eating pancakes for breakfast due to their sweetness. Or perhaps you think they’ll be too sweet.
Let’s walk you through some of the different types of protein pancakes, including the most popular flavors you might have seen somewhere on social media.
Chocolate Protein Pancakes
Chocolate lovers rejoice! There's now a protein pancake that's specifically for you! Chocolate protein pancakes are made with a unique blend of chocolate and protein powder, giving you the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition.
These pancakes are also super easy to make - just mix the ingredients together and cook them on a griddle or in a frying pan.
Craving something even sweeter? Top them off with some chocolate chips or syrup. Chocolate protein pancakes are the perfect way to start your day (or indulge in a post-workout snack).
Banana Protein Pancakes
If you love regular banana pancakes then you’re gonna go “bananas” for banana protein pancakes. Aside from their sweet taste, incorporating bananas into your breakfast has a lot of health benefits.
Bananas are a great source of several important nutrients, including Vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. They also contain tons of antioxidants. This means they can help protect cells from damage, leaving you healthier and younger-looking.
As an added benefit, bananas are low in calories and fat, making them a good choice for those watching their weight. Studies also show that eating bananas can also help improve heart health and reduce the risk of stroke.
Additionally, while most people are aware that post-workout recovery is important in order to avoid injury and improve performance, many don't know the role that potassium plays in this process.
Potassium is a key electrolyte that helps to regulate fluid balance in the body. It is also involved in muscle contraction and nerve function. During exercise, potassium is lost through sweat. Therefore, it's important to replenish levels after a workout in order to promote recovery.
Bananas help you do just that! So, do you wanna take your banana protein pancakes to another level? Top them with honey, strawberries, or even a little bit of chocolate drizzle.
Protein Pancakes With Oats
Need more fiber? Making protein pancakes with oats is a great way to start your day. Oats are packed with protein and fiber, and they're also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
When you add protein powder to the mix, you'll end up with a pancake that's packed with nutrients and that will keep you feeling full for hours.
Not sure how to top these fiber-packed breakfast meals? Try topping them with fresh fruit and a dollop of Greek yogurt. However, protein pancakes with oats are honestly great solo, too.
Birthday Cake Protein Pancakes
Birthday cake-flavored anything is always a good idea, right? That goes for birthday cake protein pancakes, too.
They’ve got all the flavors you love about birthday cake, including vanilla, almond, and a hint of sweetness, but with (usually) over 25 grams of protein per serving. It’s like having your cake and eating it too. And, it doesn’t even have to be your birthday for you to enjoy them!
Easy Ways to Add More Protein to Your Protein Pancakes
Finding that you need even more protein than the protein pancake mix includes? There are simple ways to add more protein to your breakfast so that you can meet your daily goals.
One simple way to add more protein to your pancakes is to use a higher-protein flour. For example, almond flour and coconut flour are both good options. You can also add additional protein powder to an already-made protein pancake mix.
Another easy way to add protein is to top your pancakes with something high in protein, like Greek yogurt, peanut butter, or nuts.
Additionally, if you're looking for a more creative way to add protein, try adding cooked quinoa or beans to your pancake batter. This will give your pancakes a boost of fiber and protein.
Protein Pancakes: Before or After Your Workout?
Pancakes are typically made with flour, milk, eggs, and baking powder. This combination provides a good mix of carbohydrates and protein, which is ideal for post-workout recovery.
The carbs will help to refuel your glycogen stores, while the protein will help to repair any muscle damage that occurred during your workout. However, you still need to think about getting the right mix of nutrients, calories, and sugar.
First, if you are using pancake mix (which often contains added sugar), be sure to read the label carefully. You want to make sure that the mix doesn't have too much sugar, as this can offset the benefits of the protein and carbs.
Second, if you are adding toppings to your pancakes (such as syrup or chocolate chips), again be mindful of the sugar content. Too much sugar can lead to an insulin spike, which can actually impede your recovery.
So, are protein pancakes better pre-workout or post-workout? Overall, they’re better post-workout, but be sure to watch out for your total sugar intake.
How to Avoid Adding Too Much Sugar to Your Pancakes
We’ve just told you that you need to be mindful of adding too much sugar to your protein pancakes. But, how do you do that?
Really, if you’re opting for a protein pancake mix instead of actually using protein powder with regular pancake mix, your life will be a whole lot easier. Simply choose a protein powder mix that has low sugar content.
However, outside of that, here are a few more tips:
- Use unsweetened pancake mix. This will help to reduce the amount of sugar in your pancakes.
- Top your pancakes with fruit instead of syrup. This will add sweetness without all the extra sugar.
- Avoid using flavored pancake mix. These often have added sugar that you don't need. Instead, add natural flavoring yourself in the form of fruit and other natural ingredients.
- Instead of syrup, try creating a fresh fruit compote that you can drizzle over your pancakes. The sugar content might still be high here, honestly, but it’s at least slightly healthier than pure syrup.
By following these tips, you can enjoy protein pancakes without all the extra sugar. Of course, as mentioned above, if you’re using a protein pancake mix that comes ready to cook, this might not be as much of an issue.
The Best Protein Powder for Pancakes
Sold on the idea of adding protein powder mix to your morning routine? Great! Now it’s time to think about the best types of protein powder for your pancakes. In this sense, you’ve got two choices:
- Protein Powder + Pancake Mix
- Protein Pancake Mix
What’s the difference? Well, with protein pancake mix, everything’s already included and you don’t have to measure our protein powder and figure out how to mix it into your recipes.
Both options have their pros and cons. Protein pancake mix tends to have more protein per serving. And, protein powders can sometimes make pancakes dense and rubbery, so it's worth experimenting with a few different brands to find one that you like.
Ultimately, the best option is the one that meets your caloric, fat, and protein needs and preferences. And, don’t forget that for an added punch of protein, you can use protein pancake mix and add a small scoop of flavored protein powder in!
The Best Protein Powder Flavors
If you’re going to opt for the hack mentioned above and add a dash of protein powder into your regular protein pancake mix then you’re probably wondering what the best flavors are. Really, that depends on the protein pancake recipe you’re making (more on that below).
However, here are a few of the top-ranked flavors:
- Chocolate: This is best for protein pancakes that are sweet and creamy.
- Birthday Cake: Not satisfied with traditional vanilla and love the sweetness of birthday cake ice cream? This is a great flavor to try.
- Cookies and Cream: While this flavor doesn’t translate as well into pancakes as some other flavors do, it can be great for those with a sweet tooth.
- Peanut Butter: Planning on making banana protein pancakes? Throw some peanut butter protein powder in for a delicious breakfast.
- Strawberry Cheesecake: It’s strawberry cheesecake…need we say more?
- Mocha: This flavor of protein powder allows you to enjoy the best of sweet chocolate and your morning cup of coffee. In short, it’s a great way to improve your breakfast.
- Cereal Milk: Ghost Whey is a brand that makes numerous versions of cereal milk protein powders in various flavors (peanut butter cereal milk, fruity cereal milk, marshmallow cereal milk, cinnamon cereal milk). Talk about an amazing breakfast.
Ultimately, the best protein powder flavors for protein pancakes depend on the recipe you’re using and the flavors you love. Remember that you’re also able to use protein pancake mix and add in natural flavors.
Adding in cinnamon, almond milk, vanilla essence, and natural fruit flavors can easily create a flavor profile that mimics most of the flavors mentioned above.
The Best Protein Pancake Brands
While we might be a little biased here, we’d argue that Lehi Mills protein pancake mix is the best protein pancake brand if you’re looking for a balanced taste without the chalky flavor of protein powder.
What’s in Lehi Mills protein pancake mix?
First and foremost, it’s made with locally sourced, high-quality, hand-selected wheat. Outside of the 100% whole wheat flour, though, there is whey protein, and 100% whole oat flour.
Ultimately, we believe this protein pancake mix is the best way to get your protein in a delicious, nutrient-packed breakfast. The pancake mix has 14 grams per serving and is perfect if you want the fuel needed after working out or just need some extra nutrients throughout a long day.
Easy Protein Pancake Mix Recipes
Ready to make the best protein pancakes ever? Here are some of our favorite recipes for the best protein pancakes, all of which can be used with Lehi Mills protein pancake mix.
For all of the following recipes, mix the ingredients together as listed and then cook on a lightly greased griddle at 375 degrees.
Vanilla Blueberry Cake
This vanilla blueberry cake protein pancake recipe is summery fresh and like yet full of flavor. And, they’re super simple to make!
Ingredients:
Pancakes
1 cup Lehi Mills protein pancake mix
¾ cup water
¼ cup almond milk
¼ cup blueberries
1 tablespoon peanut, almond, or cashew butter
Vanilla to taste
Blueberry Jam
¾ cup blueberries
2 tablespoons syrup (sugar-free maple syrup is best for low-calorie pancakes)
Cinnamon Bun
Who doesn’t want a protein-packed cinnamon bun breakfast each morning that’s, surprisingly, quite healthy? We definitely do.
Our unique take on this cinnamon bun recipe will have you so addicted to your morning protein pancakes that you might never need to change breakfast recipes again.
Warm the vanilla glaze and spice it up with some nutmeg and cinnamon and drizzle it on the pancakes when they’re hot, fresh, and ready.
Ingredients:
Pancakes
1 cup Lehi Mills protein pancake mix
1 cup water
1 tablespoon cinnamon
Vanilla to taste
Vanilla Icing
2 cups of powdered sugar
4 tablespoons of half and half
2 tablespoons of butter
2 teaspoons of vanilla flavoring
*If you're going for a low-calorie cinnamon bun pancake then we recommend skipping the icing!
Chocolate and Raspberry
Add a touch of sweetness to your morning breakfast routine with some chocolate and raspberry protein pancakes. The flavors in these pancakes are perfectly balanced between the sweet chocolate flavor and the citrus fruity flavor of raspberry.
Ingredients:
Pancakes
1 cup Lehi Mills protein pancake mix
¾ cup water
¼ cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon of sea salt
Toppings
Raspberries for garnish
Raspberry compote (warmed) for drizzle
Peanut Butter and Apple
Imagine this: you’ve just finished out on a crisp fall day and you’re in search of the perfect autumn-flavored breakfast that’s packed full of protein and nutrients. Enter: peanut butter and apple protein pancakes.
Not only does this recipe add some peanut butter in for added protein, but the crisp, creamy, sweet taste of the apple adds a bit of crunch and flavor to the meal. While we love this recipe a lot during the fall months, it’s great year-round, too.
Ingredients:
Pancakes
1 cup Lehi Mills protein pancake mix
¾ cup water
¼ cup almond milk
60g Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon of crunchy peanut or almond butter
Apple Topping
1 Bramley apple chopped into small cubes
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon of coconut oil
Apple Drizzle
1 tablespoon of crunchy peanut or almond butter
½ tablespoon of coconut oil
1 teaspoon of honey
Pinch of sea salt
*Extra Instructions for Topping & Drizzle:
For the apple topping, heat the coconut oil in a pan and then toss in the apple chunks. Cook them until they're lightly brown and stir in all of the other ingredients for about two to three minutes. Finally, stir in the cinnamon and let the mixture get slightly creamy.
For the drizzle, you’re going to also melt the coconut oil first, then add in the peanut butter and honey until everything is mixed together and melted. Add in nutmeg, cinnamon, or any other spices you like to get that crisp fall taste.
If you’re really in an autumn mood, you can add pumpkin pie spice to the drizzle to taste.
Omega-3 and Flaxseed
If you’re looking to increase your healthy fats along with your protein intake during breakfast then we definitely recommend adding omega-3 and flaxseed to your protein pancakes.
The great thing about this recipe is that it’s full of nutrients and leaves you with a nice, tasty blank canvas to build on. This means that if you wanna drizzle some Nutella over the top, go ahead! Or, top it all off with fresh fruit for a healthy version of the same recipe.
Pancakes
1 cup Lehi Mills protein pancake mix
1 cup water
1 banana
2 tablespoons of flax meal
A pinch of cinnamon
A pinch of salt
Tips for Making Great Protein Pancakes
Now that you understand the benefits of healthy pancakes made with protein pancake mix and you've been introduced to a few good recipes, it's time for some tips on how to make the tastiest pancakes possible.
First, we suggest that you add some healthy fats. To make your pancakes even more filling and satisfying, add some healthy fats like avocado or olive oil. This will help keep you full until lunchtime.
Second, don't forget to use a non-stick pan or pancake griddle. Protein pancakes can be tricky to flip, so be sure to use a non-stick pan or griddle. This will prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan and falling apart.
And, we suggest trying out a few different recipes. However, it's always a good idea to top your protein pancakes with fresh fruit. To really take your protein pancakes to the next level, top them with fresh fruit like berries or bananas. The sweetness of the fruit will complement the flavor of the pancakes perfectly.
Finally, don't be afraid to substitute the water for almond milk or another type of nut milk. This will make your pancakes light and fluffy if you find that pure water leaves them lacking in texture or thickness.
Looking for even more texture? Throw some shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts into the mix before cooking the pancakes and you'll be able to achieve a bit more textured protein pancake.
Protein Pancake FAQ
If you’re really dedicated to increasing your daily intake of protein as part of a fitness program or counting your macros then we’re sure you’ve got questions. And, we’ve got answers!
Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions we get about protein pancakes.
Does Heating Protein Powder Destroy It?
No, heating protein powder doesn’t destroy it.
There's a common misconception that heating protein powder destroys its nutrients. However, this isn't necessarily true. While some of the proteins may denature when heated, this doesn't mean that they're no longer nutritious.
In fact, heating can actually make some proteins more bioavailable, making them easier for your body to absorb. So if you're looking to get the most out of your protein powder, don’t be afraid to heat it up as part of your pancake mix.
Why Are My Protein Pancakes So Dry?
The two most common reasons why your protein pancakes are so dry are that you haven’t added enough liquid to the batter or you’re cooking them too quickly.
First, make sure that you add enough liquid to the batter. If the batter is too dry, it will result in dry pancakes.
Second, cook the pancakes on low heat. They will dry out quickly if you cook them on too high of heat. The key lies in cooking them slowly but evenly to avoid sucking all of the moisture out.
Third, add some healthy fat to the batter. This will help to keep the pancakes moist and prevent them from drying out. By following these tips, you can help to prevent dry protein pancakes.
Why Are My Protein Pancakes Not Fluffy?
There are a few possible reasons for this.
First, protein powder can be quite dense, so it's important to use the right ratio of protein powder to other ingredients. If you use too much protein powder, your pancakes will be dense and heavy.
Second, make sure you're using baking powder or soda to help the pancakes rise. If your recipe doesn't call for either of these ingredients, your pancakes may not be as fluffy as you'd like.
Lastly, don't overmix the batter. Instead, mix just until everything is combined. If you overmix, the pancakes will be tough and rubbery.
Keep these tips in mind next time you make protein pancakes, and you'll be sure to end up with a stack of fluffy, delicious pancakes.
Do Protein Pancakes Make You Gain Weight?
While protein powder can help you build muscle, it can also lead to weight gain if you're not careful. So what's the verdict? Are protein pancakes worth the calories?
While protein pancakes can certainly help you bulk up, they can also be part of a healthy diet. If you make protein pancakes with healthy ingredients like oats, almond milk, and egg whites, then they can actually help you lose weight.
The key is to watch how many you eat and to pair them with other healthy foods throughout the day.
How Do You Spice Up Protein Pancakes?
Add more ingredients and toppings you love! Some of our favorites include:
- Chocolate nibs
- Chia seeds
- Chopped walnuts
- Mixed berries
- Almond butter drizzle
- Orange zest
- Sugar-free whipped cream
However, do keep in mind that if you’re actually tracking your calories or macros, you’ll want to remember to add those numbers into your daily total.
How Long Are Protein Pancakes Good For?
Generally speaking, protein pancakes will be good for up to four days in the refrigerator. After that, they may start to dry out or develop a slightly different texture.
However, you can extend their shelf life by freezing them. Protein pancakes will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. Just pop them in the microwave or oven to reheat and enjoy.
How Can You Store Protein Pancakes?
Love to meal prep and want to make a ton of protein pancakes ahead of time? This is a great way to curb your appetite in the afternoons and prevent yourself from reaching for sweet snacks!
But, how do you store protein pancakes?
The key to storing them is to keep them moist. You can do this by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container.
If you plan on reheating them, be sure to add a little water or milk before doing so. This will help to re-moisten the pancakes and prevent them from drying out.
With proper storage, your protein pancakes will stay fresh and delicious for days to come.
Can Protein Powder Make You Sick?
It shouldn’t, no, but it can. How? Because protein powder is such a concentrated source of nutrients, it can also cause some side effects if it's not used properly.
The most common side effect of protein powder is digestive upset, including diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
In some cases, people may also experience allergic reactions to the ingredients in protein powder. If you're thinking about using protein powder as part of your breakfast routine, it's important to speak with your doctor first to make sure it's right for you.
Does Protein Powder Expire?
While protein powder does have a shelf life, it doesn't necessarily expire in the same way that other food products do. The key to understanding this is to know what protein powder is made of.
Protein powder is made up of two main ingredients: protein and carbohydrates. These two ingredients work together to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to build muscle and recover from exercise.
However, over time, the proteins in protein powder can begin to break down and lose their effectiveness. This process is accelerated by factors such as heat, light, and moisture.
As a result, protein powder that has been stored for too long or in unfavorable conditions may not be as effective as it once was. However, this doesn't mean that it has expired or gone bad. It simply means that you may not get the same results from using it as you would if it was fresh.
Protein Pancakes: Your Key to a Better Breakfast
Whether you’re trying to lose weight or bulk up, adding protein pancakes to your diet can help you reach your goals.
Outside of a variety of health benefits, protein pancakes are healthy, versatile, and totally tasty options for those searching for the right mixture of nutritious and flavorful.
Ready to see how you can improve your breakfast with protein pancakes? Check out Lehi Mills protein pancake mix to revolutionize your morning.
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