Spinach Pancakes
Spinach can be a hard sell to kids, but throw it into their favorite foods like muffins and smoothies, and you just might be surprised at how quickly your child gobbles it up. And I’ve learned that calling green food “hulk? has magical powers. You should try it! My kids favorite spinach recipes are this green pasta sauce, banana spinanch muffins, and these fun green pancakes! And you’re going to love the simplicity of this recipe. Just add all the ingredients into your blender and cook! I want to tell you upfront that these are not your typical fluffy, thick pancakes. Developed with babies in mind, they are moist and not sweet, making them perfect vehicles for both savory and sweet toppings. Looking for more baby friendly pancake? Check out these butternut squash and banana pancakes!
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
Baby Spinach – I do recommend purchasing organic, if able, as it contains high amounts of pesticides. Use fresh spinach for best results. Greek yogurt – Remember to always get whole fat for babies. If you desire a milder, less tangier flavor, use plain yogurt. Rolled oats – You can also use quick cooking. Oat flour will work too, but I recommend making it at home. It’s SUPER easy to do and less expensive. Applesauce – use unsweetened store-bought or homemade applesauce. It’s added to provide moisture and just a hint of sweetness. Overall, these pancakes are NOT sweet.
Instructions
Equipment
I didn’t think I needed an electric griddle until the husband gifted me one for Christmas. And I am in love!! It has cut down the time I spend making pancakes by half, if not more! It holds a consistent temperature (so less chance of burning the pancakes) and is super easy to clean. I’ve also been using it to make eggs, quesadillas, grilled cheese, tofu…I mean, why did I wait so long to get one?! And if you’ve seen some of my recipes, you have met my number one kitchen workhorse – this high-powered blender. I’ve hard it for 7+ years and it’s still going strong. I use it to make all my blender muffins, dips/sauces, smoothies, veggie nuggets, soups, cookies and so much more.
Tips for Success
After blending, let the batter sit for 5 minutes or so. This will make it easier to scoop/pour into pan. If the bottoms start to brown too much before they are set, lower the heat. Allow to cool COMPLETELY. These green spinach pancakes will firm up beautifully as it cools. I’ve also noticed that the yogurt flavor becomes more mellow as it sits. If you desire sweet spinach pancakes, do NOT add more applesauce. What I learned is that the unsweetened applesauce + Greek yogurt make the pancakes quite tart. Instead, add 1/2 medium banana, mashed. You can also add 1-2 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or date syrup (a great no added sugar option!)
Serving Suggestions
As mentioned, these baby pancakes are not sweet. Since babies are born with innate preferences for sweets, I wanted the flavors of spinach and yogurt to shine through to help babies learn to appreciate them. You can serve as is or make every bite count by spreading on top:
Peanut butter, nut butter, or seed butter (be sure to thin it out) Yogurt Dips – like beetroot dip Sugar free strawberry jam Mashed avocado Mashed beans
Here are some more healthy pancake toppings to try. You can also turn these pancakes into sandwiches! Simply spread any of the above topping suggestions onto one pancake and then press another one on top! Be sure to pair with a vitamin C rich food to enhance iron absorption! By the way, this baby plate is AMAZING! It’s so spacious, allowing plenty of room for small hands to explore, and the suction is so powerful! My baby has not once been able to remove from the table. You may be interested in: Lunch ideas for toddlers
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge. Warm slightly before serving (no more than 15 seconds in the microwave). Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Here’s how to freeze pancakes as well as reheat them so they taste just as good as the day you made them.
More Healthy Pancakes
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
