Ingredients:

• Oatmeal: 1 cup (100 g)
• Eggs: 2
• Salt: A pinch
• Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
• Greek yogurt: ⅓ cup (100 g)
• Apple: 1, peeled and grated
• Fresh mozzarella: Sliced, for topping

Steps to Make It:

1. Prepare the Batter
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, eggs, salt, and ground cinnamon.
   • Add the Greek yogurt and mix well to form a smooth batter.
   • Fold in the grated apple to add natural sweetness and moisture.
2. Heat the Pan
   • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
3. Cook the Pancakes
   • Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add the Mozzarella Topping
   • While the pancakes are still warm, place a slice of fresh mozzarella on top of each pancake.
   • The heat from the pancakes will slightly melt the mozzarella, creating a deliciously creamy topping.
5. Serve
   • Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve immediately. For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon or drizzle a bit of honey over the top.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 180 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant oatmeal instead of regular oatmeal?
Yes, instant oatmeal can be used. However, it may result in a slightly softer texture compared to rolled or old-fashioned oats.

2. Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another type of yogurt?
Absolutely! Any plain or low-fat yogurt can work, but Greek yogurt adds a thicker texture and higher protein content.

3. Can I use other fruits instead of apple?
Certainly! Pears, bananas, or grated zucchini can make excellent substitutes.

4. What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella?
You can use shredded mozzarella or another soft cheese like brie or cream cheese as an alternative.

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

1. Grate the Apple Finely
   Finely grated apple ensures even distribution in the batter and helps the pancakes cook evenly.
2. Adjust the Consistency
   If the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or water. If it’s too thin, sprinkle in a bit more oatmeal.
3. Cook on Low to Medium Heat
   This ensures the pancakes cook through without burning the outside.
4. Experiment with Spices
   Add nutmeg, ginger, or vanilla extract for additional flavor depth.
5. Serve with Extra Toppings
   Enhance the dish with honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture.

Storage Tips

• 1. Thawing: For best results, thaw the pancakes overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat them directly from frozen.
  2. Microwave Method: Heat the pancakes on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds, checking in between to avoid overheating.
  3. Skillet Method: Warm the pancakes in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a few drops of water to the pan and cover it with a lid to create steam, which helps retain moisture.
  4. 1. Prepare for Freezing: As with refrigeration, allow the pancakes to cool completely to prevent freezer burn.
     2. Layering for Freezing: Arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1 hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
     3. Storage Method: Transfer the frozen pancakes to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers if storing multiple pancakes in one container.
     4. Labeling: Write the date on the bag or container so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
     5. 1. Cool Completely: Let the pancakes cool completely at room temperature. Storing them while warm can create condensation, which leads to sogginess.
        2. Layering: Stack the pancakes with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each one to prevent them from sticking together.
        3. Airtight Container: Place the pancakes in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. Make sure to press out as much air as possible if using a bag.
        4. Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
        5. Reheating: To reheat, place the pancakes in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave them for 20-30 seconds. For a crispier texture, you can use a toaster oven.Shelf Life: Frozen pancakes can be stored for up to 2 months.Oven or Toaster Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Wrap the pancakes in aluminum foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For a slightly crispy edge, skip the foil and place them directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes.
           

           Short-Term Storage (Refrigeration)

           If you plan to eat the pancakes within a few days:

        Long-Term Storage (Freezing)

        For storage beyond a few days, freezing is an excellent option:

     Reheating Frozen Pancakes

  Additional Tips for Storage

  • Keep Toppings Separate: If you’ve already added mozzarella to the pancakes, it’s best to store it separately to avoid the cheese becoming rubbery. Add fresh mozzarella slices after reheating for the best taste and texture.
  • Portioning for Convenience: Consider storing pancakes in smaller portions if you plan to reheat them individually. This saves time and ensures you don’t thaw more than needed.
  • Avoid Overloading Bags: If you’re freezing a large batch, use multiple bags or containers to prevent crushing the pancakes at the bottom.

  Conclusion

These Healthy Apple Oatmeal Pancakes with Mozzarella Topping are more than just a breakfast treat—they’re a versatile dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty. The natural sweetness of the apple paired with the savory mozzarella creates a balanced flavor profile that will delight your taste buds. Easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, these pancakes are perfect for busy mornings or a leisurely weekend brunch. Give them a try and enjoy a meal that feels indulgent while still being health-conscious!