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Chickpea Protein Pancakes – Fluffy, Filling, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chickpea flour (also called gram or besan) – base flour and main protein source
  • Baking powder – for rise and fluffiness
  • Salt – enhances flavor
  • Cinnamon or vanilla extract – optional, for warmth and aroma
  • Milk of choice – dairy or unsweetened plant milk (almond, oat, soy)
  • Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar – helps activate the baking powder
  • Maple syrup or sugar – just enough to lightly sweeten
  • Neutral oil or melted coconut oil – for moisture and cooking
  • Optional mix-ins – blueberries, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or hemp seeds
  • Optional toppings – Greek yogurt, nut butter, fresh fruit, maple syrup

Method
 

  1. Whisk dry ingredients. In a bowl, combine 1 cup chickpea flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional). Whisk to break up any clumps.
  2. Mix wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, stir together 3/4 cup milk, 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla (optional), and 1 tablespoon oil. Let it sit for 2 minutes to lightly curdle.
  3. Combine and rest. Pour the wet into the dry and whisk until just smooth. If it’s very thick, add 1–2 tablespoons more milk. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes—this hydrates the flour and improves fluffiness.
  4. Preheat the pan. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with oil. The surface is ready when a droplet of water sizzles on contact.
  5. Portion and cook. Scoop 1/4 cup batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top and the edges look set, about 2–3 minutes. Flip gently and cook 1–2 minutes more, until golden and cooked through.
  6. Adjust heat as needed. If they brown too fast, lower the heat. Chickpea flour can color quickly while still being soft in the center, so a moderate heat works best.
  7. Add mix-ins. If using blueberries or chocolate chips, sprinkle them onto each pancake right after you pour the batter to prevent sticking or scorching.
  8. Serve warm. Stack and top with yogurt, fruit, or a drizzle of maple syrup. For extra protein, add a spoonful of peanut butter or a sprinkle of hemp seeds.