Create Your Own Protein Pancake Mix with This DIY Kodiak Pancake Recipe

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Often considered a quintessential breakfast dish, pancakes are cherished for their light and fluffy texture, coupled with a touch of sweetness. However, traditional pancakes often come with a downside: the refined carbohydrates and added sugars can lead to a mid-morning crash, leaving you unprepared for your day’s activities. The good news is that protein-enriched pancake mixes offer a satisfying solution, allowing you to enjoy the comfort of pancakes while integrating beneficial protein into your diet, either through store-bought options or homemade recipes that replicate popular mixes.

One of the most popular choices available is Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes (priced at $17 for three boxes on amazon.com), which stands out as a leading product in pancake mixes and is notably a best-seller on Amazon. While it delivers a delightful flavor reminiscent of a classic diner pancake and contains 14 grams of protein per serving, the price can be a bit steep, considering that generic mixes (available for $4 on amazon.com) provide a more affordable alternative, even without the same protein content.

For those looking for a cost-effective, homemade solution, the DIY copycat Kodiak pancake mix, created by Jessica Penner, R.D., mimics the original while ensuring nutritional consistency. This recipe involves using oat flour, whole wheat flour, whey protein, and buttermilk powder, resulting in satisfying and protein-rich pancakes.

Why You Should Try a Copycat Kodiak Pancake Mix

Penned closely to the original, Penner’s mix provides the same nutritional benefits as its packaged counterpart. Each serving offers 14 grams of protein and 3 grams of sugar, with only a marginal difference in carbohydrates and fiber—offering a balanced and energizing option for breakfast.

Choosing the Right Protein Powder

When selecting a protein powder for the mix, Penner advises choosing an unflavored whey protein isolate (retailing at $27 on amazon.com) to maximize protein content and avoid unnecessary additives. Its subtle flavor allows for seamless mixing into various recipes.

While flavored protein isolates, such as chocolate flavors (available for $25 on amazon.com), can be used, one should keep in mind the potential increase in sweetness, prompting adjustments in sugar levels within the mix.

If whey is off the table for some, plant-based protein powders (also $27 on amazon.com) can be incorporated, though they may contain additional ingredients that could affect the final product’s sweetness.

Advantages of a High-Protein Breakfast

Research has indicated that consuming protein in the morning promotes feelings of fullness longer than similar intake later in the day, as highlighted in the International Journal of Obesity. High-protein and low-glycemic breakfasts are also linked to enhanced energy levels, with whey protein being particularly effective at enhancing satiety, as evidenced by a 2011 study. This suggests that by enjoying this protein-rich pancake mix, you’re less likely to feel hungry and reach for snacks shortly after breakfast.

Rather than opting for a store-bought mix that lacks protein or frequently purchasing premium brands, consider preparing a large batch of Penner’s copycat Kodiak mix. This choice not only leads to long-term cost savings but also guarantees that quick, protein-packed pancakes are readily available, making them an acceptable option for any meal of the day.

Copycat Kodiak Protein Pancake Mix

Makes: 1 serving (5 to 6 pancakes)

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the dry mix:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup (75 g) whey protein isolate (not concentrate)
• 4 1/2 tsp buttermilk powder, optional
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the pancakes:

• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• Butter or cooking oil for pan

Directions:

For the dry mix:

In a blender or food processor, pulse the oats until a coarse flour forms. Combine this oat flour with the other dry ingredients and mix until evenly blended.

For the pancakes:

To make one serving, whisk together 1 cup of the dry mix with the milk and egg until just combined. Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in a scoop of the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for 2 additional minutes. Enjoy with your favorite toppings, whether fruit, chocolate chips, maple syrup, or others of your choice.

This recipe is used with permission from Jessica Penner, R.D., from SmartNutrition.ca.

Other Ways to Use Your Copycat Kodiak Pancake Mix

This pancake mix isn’t limited to pancakes alone. It serves as a versatile base for various breakfast items such as biscuits, waffles, and crepes. For those with a sweet tooth, it can also be adapted for creation of muffins or even funnel cakes. Alternatively, explore savory options by infusing the mix with vegetables and spices to make delicious fritters.

Some adaptations will require minor adjustments in cooking methods. For instance, muffins simply need the batter poured into a muffin pan and baked, while other recipes, like waffles and crepes, may require tweaks to achieve the right batter consistency.

Source
www.shape.com