Healthy Alternatives to Pancakes

Pancakes are one of my husband's favorite breakfast items. Although I enjoy them, I've always felt uncomfortable after eating them. Even after eating just one pancake I'd feel heavy and bloated. As a result, I simply stopped eating them. That is until I discovered these healthy pancake alternatives.

Oat Bran Pancakes - These pancakes have actually become my favorite. They are light and fluffy, and very easy to digest. Instead of making them from scratch, I typically use a mix by Krusteaz. Like other instant pancake mixes, you just add water and stir. Because they are made with a cinnamon spice, I top off the pancakes with a little sour cream, heated canned apple pie filling (light or without sugar) or applesauce and fresh cinnamon. Simply delicious.

Whole or Buckwheat Pancakes - Looking for a little more substance? Whole and buckwheat pancakes are both healthy and filling. Make from scratch using whole wheat or buckwheat flour, or use an instant mix. There are many on the market including one by Aunt Jemima and Hodgson Mill. For a tasty treat, add blueberries or dark chocolate chips to the mix.

Wheat Germ Pancakes - Add a 1/4 to a 1/2 cup of toasted wheat germ to your traditional pancake recipe (or instant mix) as a healthy alternative. Wheat germ is rich in Vitamin E and folic acid, and a great source of fiber. Top with bananas, pecans and warm maple syrup (light or sugar free).

Flaxseed Pancakes - Adding flaxseed to your favorite pancake recipe is also a great healthy option. Flaxseed is high in Omega-3 fatty acids and also a good fiber source. As with wheat germ, add 1/4 to a 1/2 cup of flax seed meal to the pancake mix (based upon number of servings).

Sweet Potato Pancakes - I was pleasantly surprised by the tastiness of this sweet potato treat. They are very simple to make and various recipes are available on line. As a short cut, consider using canned sweet potatoes in a light syrup. Add cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg for more flavoring. Top with walnuts, coconut and a light syrup.

Pancake Toppings - Syrup is not the healthiest topping for pancakes. Although it is the most traditional, there are many alternative toppings including:

Fresh Berries (Strawberries, raspberries and blueberries)

Almond/Cashew Butter

Plain, Vanilla or Strawberry Yogurt

Cottage Cheese

Cream Cheese

Sour Cream

Peanut Butter With Bananas

Fat Free/Light Whip Cream

Apple Sauce