Protein Chocolate Ricotta Pancakes

Featured in: Breakfast

These pancakes blend oat flour, cocoa, protein powder, and coconut sugar for a rich, nourishing base. Creamy ricotta and eggs add moisture, while milk and vanilla create a smooth, aromatic batter. Optional dark chocolate chips can be folded in for extra indulgence. Each pancake cooks up light and fluffy, making them an ideal breakfast or post-exercise meal. Serve warm with fresh berries, extra ricotta, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful and energizing treat that's high in protein and vegetarian-friendly. Easily customize ingredients for gluten-free or preferred sweetness.

Updated on Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:17:00 GMT
Fluffy Protein Chocolate Ricotta Pancakes stacked high, drizzled with syrup and fresh berries.  Save
Fluffy Protein Chocolate Ricotta Pancakes stacked high, drizzled with syrup and fresh berries. | cheerfulchefs.com

Fluffy, chocolatey pancakes packed with protein and creamy ricotta, these pancakes are perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a delicious post-workout treat. The combination of wholesome ingredients makes them a satisfying start to your day while keeping things easy and quick.

I started making these pancakes after searching for high-protein breakfast options that didn&t compromise on flavor. The addition of ricotta gives them a wonderfully light and moist texture that rivals any classic pancake recipe.

Ingredients

  • Oat flour (or whole wheat flour): 1 cup (120 g) provides a hearty, wholegrain base
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/4 cup (25 g) gives a rich chocolate flavor
  • Protein powder (chocolate or vanilla): 1 scoop (30 g) boosts the protein content
  • Coconut sugar or granulated sugar: 2 tbsp (25 g) adds gentle sweetness
  • Baking powder: 1 1/2 tsp helps pancakes rise and become fluffy
  • Salt: 1/4 tsp enhances flavor
  • Ricotta cheese: 3/4 cup (180 g) provides richness and moisture
  • Eggs: 2 large help bind the batter
  • Milk of choice: 1/2 cup (120 ml) adds liquid for mixing
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tsp for warm flavor notes
  • Dark chocolate chips: 1/3 cup (60 g), optional for extra indulgence
  • Fresh berries: for serving and garnish, optional

Instructions

Prepare dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together oat flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
Combine batter:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using, fold in chocolate chips.
Heat skillet:
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter.
Cook pancakes:
Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Let cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles form and edges look set.
Flip and finish:
Flip pancakes and cook another 1 to 2 minutes until cooked through.
Serve:
Serve warm, topped with berries, extra ricotta, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
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| cheerfulchefs.com

A weekend tradition in our house, these pancakes bring everyone to the kitchen for a hearty morning meal. My kids love customizing their pancakes with different toppings, making breakfast even more fun.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, whisk, non-stick skillet or griddle, spatula, measuring cups and spoons.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (ricotta, milk), eggs, and may contain gluten depending on flour used. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens if using chocolate chips.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories: 225, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 22 g, Protein: 15 g.

Decadent Protein Chocolate Ricotta Pancakes served warm, featuring rich chocolate and creamy texture.  Save
Decadent Protein Chocolate Ricotta Pancakes served warm, featuring rich chocolate and creamy texture. | cheerfulchefs.com

Enjoy these pancakes while they’re warm and fresh for the best texture. They make mornings special and never fail to impress at family brunch.

Recipe FAQs

How do I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oat flour in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version.

Can I substitute the coconut sugar?

You can use your preferred sweetener, such as stevia, maple syrup, or standard granulated sugar.

What type of protein powder works best?

Both chocolate and vanilla protein powder work well; plant-based or whey options are suitable.

What is the best way to freeze these pancakes?

Stack cooled pancakes with parchment between layers, freeze in a sealed bag, then reheat in toaster or microwave.

Are there recommended toppings?

Fresh berries, extra ricotta, and maple syrup all complement the pancakes' flavor and texture beautifully.

Protein Chocolate Ricotta Pancakes

Fluffy chocolate pancakes with ricotta and protein, perfect for breakfast or post-workout nourishment.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Breakfast

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background American

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly

What You’ll Need

Dry Ingredients

01 1 cup oat flour or whole wheat flour
02 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 1 scoop (30 grams) chocolate or vanilla protein powder
04 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or granulated sugar
05 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
06 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

01 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
02 2 large eggs
03 1/2 cup milk of choice
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins

01 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
02 Fresh berries, for serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk oat flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large mixing bowl until well blended.

Step 02

Blend Wet Ingredients: In a second bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and homogeneous.

Step 03

Integrate Mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if desired.

Step 04

Preheat Cooking Surface: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly coat with oil or butter.

Step 05

Portion and Cook: Spoon 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot surface. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles form and the edges begin to set.

Step 06

Turn and Finish: Flip each pancake and continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and fluffy.

Step 07

Serve: Plate pancakes while warm. Top with fresh berries, extra ricotta cheese, or a drizzle of maple syrup as preferred.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains dairy from ricotta cheese and milk.
  • Includes eggs.
  • May contain gluten, depending on flour selection.
  • Chocolate chips may contain soy or traces of nuts.
  • Review all ingredient labels for possible allergen presence.

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 225
  • Fats: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 22 grams
  • Proteins: 15 grams