Easy, Fluffy Almond Pancakes

For most families, breakfast is a tricky business. You're either rushing around to get out the door and don't have time to cook or you opt for the easy way out and rock some cereal. But for us, pancakes have and always will be a complete go-to in my house (with these high protein yogurt pancakes being one of our favorites!).

I've always loved pancakes (light, fluffy, maple syrup goodness and all!) but I'll be the first to admit that box-pancakes were about all I cooked back in the day (prior to this health journey of mine).

And while box pancakes are definitely easy, they just don't have a whole lot of nutrition in them.

Ironically, one of baby bears first foods accidentally ended up being blueberry pancakes! We were having them for dinner one night (pancake Tuesday) and of course I made almond ones. She just reached over, grabbed a fistful and went to town!

Pancakes are still one of her all time favorite foods (she asks for them about three times per week) so it only makes sense that I have some healthy options up my sleeve!

These fluffy pancakes use a base of almond meal (I use Bob's Red Mill) with a touch of oat flour to help bind. If you opt for this oat flour you'll be keeping your pancakes gluten free. Almond meal makes an awesome pancake base because it makes them super filling, calorie dense and full of calcium!

ppssstt. I also have an obsession with these silly pancake molds! They make such a nice shape and everything even. I'm a nerd. it's been accepted 😛

The pancakes themselves are not overly sweet but that's what syrup if for right?!

That said, many mamas I talk to avoid pancakes because they take a bit to whip up. Since pancakes (when healthy versions) are an amazing breakfast staple, I have two solutions for you:

The first is to make big batches and freeze them. I do this all the time for baby bear and it makes t easy to toss a couple in the toaster oven while we get ready (we also rotate through these easy make ahead breakfasts!)

The second suggestion is to make a big jar full of pancake mix (all the dry ingredients) so you're at least half prepped. Then, just add the wet ingredients and cook! It definitely saves you a bit of time.

No matter what system you use, work these pancakes into your routine. They're easy, yummy and full of nutrients!

Ingredients For Light & Fluffy Almond Pancakes

• 2 cups almond meal

• 3/4 cup oat flour

• 1.5 tbs baking powder

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 eggs

• 3/4 cup egg whites

• 1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce

• almond milk as needed (about 2 tablespoons)

Tip: Let the edges of the pancakes get nice and golden brown before flipping. It keeps them soft!

Spray a pan with non stick spray (if needed!) and heat over medium. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and whisk until mixed. Pour batter into pan in pancake form pressing down as needed to make it even.

Cook covered for 6-8 minutes or until mostly heated through. Flip and finish cooking until golden brown.

Top with maple syrup and berries!

Makes 10 pancakes