Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Pancakes

Photo by Brieanna Casperson

Oats are an absolute staple in my pantry. I utilize them almost every day in my oatmeal, smoothies, breads and other baked goods. Plain oats are a versatile and wonderful source of fiber (4-6 g per ½ cup serving), protein (6-7 g per ½ cup serving) and are free of cholesterol, fat and sodium. Due to its great nutrient profile, oatmeal is promoted by the American Heart Association as a heart-healthy food and also by the American Diabetes Association as a nutritious carbohydrate source.

As much as I enjoy oatmeal in its traditional form, I seek out new recipes that incorporate oats in creative ways. This recipe truly elevated my love for oats and pancakes alike. The oats themselves give the pancakes a heartier feel and the combination of coconut, chocolate and almonds is a flavor match made in heaven. If you have a nut allergy or are not partial to chocolate, the base of this recipe can be mixed and matched with whatever flavors you prefer.


Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Pancakes

Recipe by Brieanna Casperson, RDN

Makes 6-8 pancakes

Ingredients
1/2 cup plus 4 tbsp whole wheat pastry flour
1/3 cup oats
1 tbsp turbinado raw sugar
1/2 tbsp baking powder
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp hemp seed hearts
a pinch of salt (optional)
1 cup soy milk (or plant-based milk)
1 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup crushed almonds
1/4 cup non-dairy dark chocolate chunks

Instructions

  1. Combine all of the dry ingredients into one bowl.
  2. Add the soy milk, coconut oil and vanilla extract to the dry mixture and stir until everything is evenly incorporated. Let the batter sit for 3-5 minutes.
  3. Now, turn on your burner (if you're using a pan) to medium high. Allow the pan to heat up for a minute or two and feel free to "butter" the pan with a plant-based oil or Earth Balance (I used Earth Balance).
  4. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake into the pan (depending on how large or small you want them to be you can add more or less).
  5. How do you know when to flip the pancake? Wait for small air bubbles to start forming on the top of the pancake. You will also notice the edges of the pancake begin to firm up and become golden brown. When it looks ready, flip it!
  6. Once all of your pancakes are made, stack them and sprinkle some almonds, coconut and chocolate chunks on top.
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Brieanna Casperson
Brieanna Casperson, RDN, is a Connecticut-based dietitian with a focus on plant-based cooking and baking. Read her blog, B.Flavorful, and follow her on Facebook.