Introduction
Start your Valentine’s Day with a romantic and protein packed breakfast! These Red Velvet Protein Pancakes are light, fluffy, and naturally colored with beet puree or cocoa powder. They deliver the indulgent flavor of red velvet cake but in a healthier, high protein form. Perfect for a special morning with your loved one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
High Protein & Nutritious – Keeps you full and energized.
Deliciously Fluffy & Chocolatey – Just like red velvet cake!
Naturally Colored – No artificial food dyes needed.
Perfect for Valentine’s Day – A festive, romantic breakfast.
Easy to Make – Ready in just 20 minutes!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients (Makes 8-10 pancakes)
For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar (or honey)
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or dairy milk)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (adds moisture & protein)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp beet puree (for natural red color) or ½ tsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (reacts with baking soda for fluffiness)
- 1 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter.
For the Cream Cheese Drizzle:
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk, to thin as needed
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fats: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
Step by Step Instructions
- Total Time: 20 Minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
1. Prepare the Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together oat flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and coconut sugar.
- In another bowl, mix almond milk, Greek yogurt, eggs, beet puree, vanilla extract, apple cider vinegar, and melted coconut oil.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
2. Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with coconut oil or butter.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Drizzle
- Whisk together cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
4. Assemble & Serve
- Stack the pancakes, drizzle with cream cheese glaze, and top with fresh berries or cacao nibs for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Pancakes
Don’t Overmix – A few lumps in the batter are okay! Overmixing makes pancakes dense.
Medium Heat is Best – Prevents burning while cooking evenly.
For Extra Red Color – Use more beet puree or a natural food dye.
Make it More Indulgent – Add dark chocolate chips to the batter!
Boost Protein Further – Use two scoops of protein powder and extra Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Strawberries & Raspberries – Adds a fresh, tangy contrast.
Drizzle with Dark Chocolate Sauce – For an extra decadent touch.
Pair with a Vanilla Latte or Matcha – Complements the flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these pancakes gluten free?
A: Yes! Use certified gluten free oat flour or almond flour.
Q: Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?
A: Yes! Substitute all purpose or whole wheat flour at a 1:1 ratio.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze these pancakes?
A: Yes! Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster or skillet.
Q: What’s a good dairy free substitute for Greek yogurt?
A: Use coconut yogurt or mashed banana.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Protein Pancakes are the perfect healthy yet indulgent breakfast for Valentine’s Day (or any day you want to treat yourself!). With their chocolatey flavor, high protein content, and creamy topping, they’re a romantic and nutritious way to start the morning.