Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Start your morning right with these light and airy Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, bursting with citrus flavor.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-08T20:42:28.906Z

These Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. The addition of ricotta cheese makes them incredibly soft and moist, while the fresh lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness that will wake up your taste buds.

Why You'll Love These Pancakes

  • Incredibly fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Bright lemon flavor that elevates your breakfast experience
  • Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a perfect morning treat

The Perfect Weekend Breakfast

There's something special about enjoying a leisurely breakfast on the weekend, and these Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes make it even better. Their light and airy texture, combined with the bright citrus flavor, creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for a slow Sunday morning. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, these pancakes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Imagine the aroma of fresh pancakes wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this simple recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a breakfast that feels indulgent without the fuss. These pancakes are not only delicious but also versatile; you can easily customize them with your favorite toppings.

Nutritional Benefits of Ricotta

Ricotta cheese is a fantastic addition to these pancakes, not just for flavor but for its nutritional benefits too. It's a great source of protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied throughout the morning. Additionally, ricotta is lower in fat compared to many other cheeses, making it a healthier choice for breakfast.

Incorporating ricotta into your pancakes also adds a creamy richness that enhances the overall texture. The added protein helps balance the carbohydrates from the flour, making these pancakes a more nutritious option than traditional recipes. Enjoying these pancakes means you can indulge in a delicious meal while still being mindful of your health.

Customization Options

One of the best things about these Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes is their versatility. While the lemon flavor is bright and refreshing, you can easily experiment with different flavors. Consider adding blueberries, chocolate chips, or even a hint of vanilla extract to the batter for a unique twist. Each variation can turn your breakfast into a delightful surprise.

Toppings can also elevate your pancake experience. Alongside maple syrup and fresh berries, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture. For those who enjoy a bit of tang, a drizzle of yogurt or a citrus glaze can complement the pancakes beautifully. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Butter, for cooking

For Serving

  • Maple syrup
  • Fresh berries
  • Powdered sugar (optional)

Combine all ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the ricotta mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Pour in 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serve

Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pancakes!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover pancakes, storing them is simple! Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between each pancake to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pancakes. Just make sure they are completely cool before wrapping each pancake individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the toaster or microwave!

Perfect Pairings

These Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice complements the citrus notes perfectly. For a more indulgent touch, serve with a side of savory bacon or sausage for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.

If you're looking to create a brunch spread, consider pairing these pancakes with a fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait. The fresh fruit will enhance the lemon flavor and add a vibrant touch to your table. These pairings will not only impress your guests but also create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Cooking Tips

To achieve the ultimate fluffiness, make sure not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes, which is the opposite of what we're aiming for. Gently folding the ingredients together will help maintain that airy texture.

When cooking, keep an eye on the heat of your skillet. A medium heat is ideal, as it allows the pancakes to cook evenly without burning. If you're unsure, you can do a quick test by dropping a small amount of batter onto the skillet; if it sizzles gently, you're ready to go. Patience is key for perfectly golden pancakes!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to cook the pancakes immediately after mixing the batter for the fluffiest results.

→ Can I add blueberries or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Fold in fresh blueberries or chocolate chips into the batter before cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Start your morning right with these light and airy Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, bursting with citrus flavor.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pancakes

  1. 1 cup ricotta cheese
  2. 1/2 cup milk
  3. 3 large eggs
  4. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  5. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  6. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  7. 2 tablespoons sugar
  8. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  9. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  10. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  11. Butter, for cooking

For Serving

  1. Maple syrup
  2. Fresh berries
  3. Powdered sugar (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.

Step 02

In another bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 03

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the ricotta mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 04

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Pour in 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 05

Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 360mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 10g