Some mornings, all I want is something sweet, warm, and comforting but also filling enough to keep me going while nursing, chasing toddlers, and getting through a busy day. These chocolate protein pancakes are my go-to. They feel like a treat but are secretly packed with protein, oats, and ingredients that support my milk supply. No flour, no sugar crashes just a healthy, fluffy breakfast that satisfies both me and the kids.
How to Make Chocolate Protein Pancakes
you’ll need
What I love most about these chocolate protein pancakes is how clean and nourishing the ingredients are. No refined flour, no weird protein powders just real, whole foods that support energy, recovery, and milk production.
Here’s what I use to make a batch:
- 2 ripe bananas : They bring natural sweetness, fiber, and long-lasting energy. No need for added sugar.
- 4 large eggs : Loaded with choline and protein, perfect for postpartum healing and brain-boosting milk.
- ¾ cup old-fashioned oats : A wholesome base that makes these banana oat protein pancakes rich in fiber and milk-boosting beta-glucans.
- ¼ cup breastfeeding-safe chocolate protein powder : I use a clean plant-based blend or collagen peptides with no caffeine or artificial sweeteners.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder : Adds that deep chocolate flavor without the sugar.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon : Helps with digestion and naturally enhances sweetness.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract : Just a splash for a richer flavor.
- Optional: 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed : For extra omega-3s, fiber, and lactation support.
- Splash of unsweetened oat or almond milk : Only if needed to adjust the batter’s texture.
- Coconut oil or butter for greasing : Just a touch to keep the pancakes from sticking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
These chocolate protein pancakes come together in minutes no whisking bowls or special tools needed. Just one blender and one pan. Here’s how I make them:
Step 1: Blend the batter.
In a blender, add the ripe bananas, eggs, oats, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon, vanilla (if using), flaxseed, and a splash of milk if the mix feels too thick. Blend until smooth and pourable. Let it sit for 3–5 minutes so the oats absorb a bit of moisture.
Step 2: Preheat your pan.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low. Lightly grease it with coconut oil or butter. You want the surface hot but not smoking these are delicate, no-flour protein pancakes, so gentle heat is key.
Step 3: Cook the pancakes.
Pour the batter into small circles (about ¼ cup per pancake). Let them cook slowly for about 2–3 minutes, or until bubbles form on top and the edges firm up. Carefully flip with a spatula and cook another 1–2 minutes until cooked through. They should be fluffy, soft, and chocolatey.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy.
Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of almond butter, a few dark chocolate chips, or even a scoop of Greek yogurt. These high protein chocolate pancakes are sweet enough on their own, so no syrup is needed unless you want to treat yourself.
Equipment
- Blender
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup breastfeeding-safe chocolate protein powder (plant-based or collagen)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional)
- splash of unsweetened oat or almond milk, if needed
- coconut oil or butter, for greasing the pan
Instructions
- In a blender, add bananas, eggs, oats, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon, vanilla (if using), flaxseed, and a splash of milk if needed. Blend until smooth and pourable. Let it sit for 3–5 minutes to absorb moisture.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low. Lightly grease with coconut oil or butter.
- Pour batter to form 3–4 inch pancakes (about ¼ cup each). Cook for 2–3 minutes or until bubbles form. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until done. They should be soft and fluffy.
- Top with nut butter, fruit, or yogurt. No syrup needed—these are naturally sweet!
Notes
Nutrition
Why These Chocolate Protein Pancakes Are Perfect for Breastfeeding Moms
When you’re breastfeeding, your body becomes a machine of nourishment. Every single feeding pulls nutrients directly from your body to support your baby’s growth. That means your breakfast can’t just be filling it has to be functional. These chocolate protein pancakes do exactly that.
1. They’re rich in high-quality protein.
Breastfeeding moms need more protein than usual around 65 to 75 grams per day, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Protein helps maintain lean muscle, support postpartum recovery, and most importantly, fuel milk production. These pancakes provide a solid dose from eggs, oats, and protein powder all easily digestible and gentle on a new mom’s body.
2. Choline supports your baby’s brain.
Eggs, one of the main ingredients, are among the richest sources of choline a nutrient essential for infant brain development and nervous system health. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, choline is especially important during breastfeeding, yet many women fall short. These pancakes make it easy to include more in your morning.
3. Bananas and oats help with milk supply.
Oats are one of the most commonly recommended galactagogues foods that may help increase milk production. They’re rich in beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber shown to stimulate prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production. Bananas provide natural sweetness, potassium, and energy, which are all helpful during lactation.
(Source: La Leche League – Foods that Support Milk Supply)
4. Balanced for gentle postpartum weight loss.
If you’re aiming to lose baby weight gradually, these low calorie protein pancakes support that goal without going into extreme calorie deficit. Each serving is satisfying, thanks to the fiber and protein, and won’t spike your blood sugar like typical pancakes. You feel full longer and more stable emotionally too.
(Source: KellyMom – Weight Loss While Breastfeeding)
5. Caffeine- and additive-free.
Many chocolate-flavored breakfast items contain cocoa with added caffeine or protein powders full of artificial sweeteners. These pancakes are made with breastfeeding-safe cocoa powder and clean protein, keeping your milk and baby free from potential irritants.
These aren’t just pancakes. They’re a strategic, nutritious breakfast that supports your body’s recovery, your baby’s growth, and your own long-term energy. And they taste like dessert. That’s a win all around.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chocolate Protein Pancakes
Can I make chocolate protein pancakes while breastfeeding?
Yes! These chocolate protein pancakes are made with ingredients that are safe and beneficial for breastfeeding moms. They’re free from artificial sweeteners, low in caffeine, and contain nutrients like protein, oats, and choline that support both milk supply and recovery.
What’s the best protein powder to use for breastfeeding-friendly pancakes?
Choose a clean protein powder with minimal ingredients preferably plant-based or collagen peptides. Avoid powders with added caffeine, artificial flavors, or sweeteners like sucralose or stevia if your baby is sensitive. Look for ones labeled breastfeeding-safe or formulated for postpartum use.
Are these chocolate pancakes gluten-free and flourless?
Yes, this recipe uses oats instead of flour, making them naturally gluten-free (as long as your oats are certified GF). These no-flour protein pancakes are great for digestion and perfect for moms avoiding processed flours postpartum.
Can I meal prep these protein pancakes for the week?
Absolutely! These pancakes store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for 2–3 months. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for a quick, high protein breakfast during busy nursing mornings.
📍 Save this nourishing pancake recipe to your breastfeeding breakfast board!
It’s high-protein, milk-boosting, and naturally sweet. You’ll want this on repeat.
The Smartest Breakfast Choice for Breastfeeding Moms
When you’re breastfeeding, exhausted, and trying to make something that fuels you and your milk supply, it’s easy to reach for something fast but not so nourishing. These chocolate protein pancakes are the perfect middle ground—sweet, satisfying, and packed with real nutrition. They’re made for moms who want to heal, feed, and maybe even gently lose the baby weight without giving up flavor or joy.
With no flour, no refined sugar, and ingredients that truly support your body, these pancakes have become a go-to in my postpartum kitchen and I hope they become a favorite in yours too.
Fuel your morning, support your milk, and enjoy every bite. You deserve it.
