Gluten-free protein pancakes made with banana, flax, and protein powder make a fabulous light, high-protein, grain-free breakfast. They are quick and dairy-free.
We wanted a light and filling breakfast that was still grain-free, but a bit leaner than our peanut butter banana pancakes. These gluten-free protein pancakes are the result — fluffy, slightly sweet, and packed with protein.
They come together in minutes and use simple ingredients you probably already have in the pantry. Because they’re naturally sweetened with banana, there’s no added sugar, making them a great choice for a healthy start to the day.
What you need to make these protein banana pancakes
- Banana (ripe)*
- Egg
- Ground flaxseeds
- Unflavoured protein powder (hemp or whey, see the next section to help you choose)
- Cinnamon
- Oil (for the pan, we use a non-stick cooking spray)
*Our pancake’s sweetness is related to the ripeness of the banana. As bananas ripen, shifting from green to yellow, the starch is converted to sugars. As a result, yellow bananas (with some brown spots) are sweeter, while greener bananas have a starchier flavor.
Hemp protein vs whey protein
Disclaimer: Statements regarding health benefits are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.
When we first developed this recipe, we had a choice to make: hemp protein or whey protein. Because I am dairy-free, hemp protein was the obvious winner. But if you tolerate dairy, you might want to consider whey protein. Here are the key differences.
Regardless of whether you use hemp or whey, the key is to choose an unflavored protein powder for this recipe.
Hemp protein:
- Plant-based & dairy-free – perfect if you’re vegan, dairy-free, or want to add more plants to your diet.
- High in fibre – which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer (according to Healthline).
- Earthy, nutty flavor – which works well with banana and cinnamon in these pancakes.
Whey protein:
- Complete protein – containing all essential amino acids, which can help support muscle recovery after workouts.
- Smoother texture – whey mixes easily, which can make your pancakes a bit fluffier.
- Neutral taste – so it won’t overpower the natural sweetness of the banana.
Tips & Serving Suggestions
- To boost the protein, you can substitute more protein powder for some of the flaxseed. Personally, I miss the nutty flavor from the flax, so I rarely do this.
- For a larger breakfast, top off the pancakes with sliced banana and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- For a sweeter option: add berry jam, or drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top.
These gluten-free protein pancakes are a lighter alternative to our peanut butter version, but just as satisfying. They’re perfect for busy mornings or post-workout fuel.
Our GF protein banana pancakes recipe
Gluten-free Protein Pancakes
Made with banana, flax, and hemp protein powder, these gluten-free pancakes are a perfect grain-free breakfast. Quick and dairy-free.
Ingredients
- 1 medium banana
- 1 medium egg
- 1 Tablespoon ground flaxseeds
- 1 Tablespoon hemp protein powder
- 1 dash cinnamon powder
- 1/10 teaspoon oil ( a quick spray )
Instructions
- Mash the peeled banana in a shallow bowl. We use the backside of a fork to do this.
- Add the cinnamon (about 2 shakes from a bottle). Mix.
- Add the egg and beat with a fork until the banana and egg are well mixed. There will be some banana lumps.
- Add the ground flaxseed and hemp protein powder and mix.
- Lightly spray a medium-sized pan with cooking oil spray and preheat the pan for 2 minutes on high heat. Alternatively, use a non-stick pan.
- Lower the pan to medium-low heat.
- Scoop the pancake mixture into the pan to form 3 separate pancakes.
- Flip the pancakes after six minutes.
- Pancakes are finished in about four additional minutes.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 202Total Fat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 164mgSodium: 121mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 3gSugar: 15gProtein: 12g
Nutritional information isn't always accurate and it will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Read next: 19 Gluten-Free Pancake Recipes: Quick Breakfast Ideas
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