Lower Carb Pancakes for Shrove Tuesday – Gestational Diabetes Friendly!

Written by Tazmin Lewis

Light Low Carb Delicious Pancakes

Shrove Tuesday is here, and for many, that means indulging in delicious pancakes! But if you're managing gestational diabetes (GDM), traditional pancake recipes packed with refined flour and sugar may cause spikes in blood glucose levels. The good news? You can still enjoy a pancake feast while keeping your blood sugar stable!

As a Prenatal Specialist Dietitian with 10+ years experience in Gestational Diabetes I've created two lower-carb pancake recipes that are both delicious and nutrient-dense. They swap out high-carb ingredients for options that provide protein, healthy fats, and fibre—perfect for pregnancy and GDM management.

Whether you prefer a classic Greek yoghurt base or a nutty almond flour alternative, these pancakes will keep you satisfied without the sugar crash.

Greek Yoghurt Pancakes

These pancakes are a great alternative to traditional versions, using Greek yoghurt for a protein boost and just a small amount of flour to keep the carbs lower. They’re SO light, fluffy, and packed with nutrients to support you during pregnancy.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 220g Greek yoghurt (not Greek-style)

• ½ tsp vanilla essence

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 50g white flour

• Little butter or oil to light fry

Optional 1 tsp maple syrup or sugar free syrup

Notes

Use a Greek Yoghurt over a Greek style or natural yoghurt for lower carbohydrates and a higher protein ratio

Using whole meal flour also works well in this recipe and provides additional fibre

Method

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yoghurt, eggs, and vanilla essence until smooth.

• Add the flour and baking powder, gently mixing until well combined.

• Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.

• Spoon 2 tbsp of the batter onto the pan for each pancake, cooking for 2-3 minutes on one side until bubbles appear.

• Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

• Serve warm with toppings like Greek yoghurt, berries, or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

• For additional sweetness you can add maple syrup or a sugar free syrup depending on your carbohydrate tolerance.

Macronutrient Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal

• Protein: 17g

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

These pancakes provide protein and calcium for baby's growth and bone development as well as healthy fats for slow releasing energy.

Almond Flour Pancakes

(Grain-Free & Extra Low-Carb)

Almond Flour Pancake

If you're looking for an even lower-carb, grain-free option, these almond flour pancakes are perfect! They’re higher in protein and healthy fats, making them ideal for keeping blood sugar levels stable.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 2 eggs

• ½ tsp vanilla essence

• 40ml unsweetened soya milk

• ½ tsp baking powder

• 90g almond flour

• Pinch of ground cinnamon

• Little butter or oil for light frying

• Optional 1 tsp maple syrup or sugar free syrup

Method

1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla essence, and soya milk until combined.

2. Add the almond flour, baking powder, and cinnamon, stirring until smooth.

3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.

4. Put 2 tbsp of the batter onto the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Flip and cook until golden brown and firm.

6. Serve warm with toppings like Greek yoghurt, berries and syrup

Macronutrient Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal

• Protein: 14g

• Fat: 26g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

There are super low in carbs which is perfect for those who have a very low carb tolerance at breakfast. Plus they are filled with healthy fats, protein and fibre to keep you feeling satisfied all morning.

ENJOY!

Shrove Tuesday doesn’t have to mean missing out on pancakes just because you have gestational diabetes! These two lower-carb recipes provide a delicious, nutrient-dense alternative to traditional pancakes while helping to support steady blood sugar levels. Whether you prefer the light, protein-rich Greek yoghurt version or the grain-free almond flour alternative, both will keep you feeling satisfied and energized.

Enjoy your pancakes and have a wonderful Shrove Tuesday!

Have you tried these recipes? Let me know in the comments below! 

Lower carb pancakes

If your are looking for more personalised support with Gestational Diabetes why not check out my Sweet Success Program, 6 weeks of support with your blood sugar levels PLUS a bonus post partum appointment.

Tazmin Lewis, Prenatal & Paediatric Dietitian