Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Berries​

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Delight in the light and fluffy texture of these Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, perfectly paired with fresh berries for a sweet and tangy breakfast treat.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-13T18:13:50.257Z

These Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic pancake. The addition of ricotta cheese gives them a rich, creamy texture, while the fresh lemon zest adds a bright, refreshing flavor. Topped with a medley of berries, this dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast any day of the week.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Light and airy pancakes that are irresistibly fluffy
  • Zesty lemon flavor perfectly balanced with sweet berries
  • A unique twist on traditional pancakes that impresses guests

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

These Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are an incredible way to start your day. Their light and airy texture makes them a standout breakfast option, providing a delightful contrast to traditional dense pancakes. The ricotta cheese not only adds creaminess but also contributes to the fluffiness that elevates this dish. Perfect for brunch or a special occasion, these pancakes will leave your family and friends raving about your culinary skills.

The zesty lemon flavor infuses each bite with a refreshing tang, balancing beautifully with the sweetness of the berries. This unique flavor combination is sure to brighten up any morning. Whether you're enjoying a lazy weekend breakfast or preparing for a holiday feast, these pancakes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Berries: Nature's Candy

Adding a mix of fresh berries not only enhances the visual appeal of your pancakes but also packs them with nutrients. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this breakfast both delicious and nutritious. The natural sweetness of the berries complements the tangy lemon perfectly and provides a burst of flavor that takes these pancakes to the next level.

For a personal touch, feel free to mix and match your favorite fruits. Blackberries, sliced bananas, or even a sprinkle of nuts can work wonderfully as toppings. The versatility of the berry topping means you can customize it to your liking, ensuring that every bite is a unique experience.

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

To achieve the perfect fluffy texture, avoid overmixing the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, it's important to mix until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly okay; they will cook out while the pancakes are on the skillet. This gentle approach will yield pancakes that are beautifully light and airy.

When cooking the pancakes, ensure your skillet is at the right temperature. If your pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Conversely, if they aren't cooking through, increase the heat. A well-regulated cooking temperature will ensure that the outside is golden brown while the inside remains fluffy and moist.

Ingredients

For the pancakes

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the berry topping

  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Mix the pancake batter until smooth and let it rest for a few minutes before cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the pancake batter

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

Cook the pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Prepare the berry topping

In a small bowl, toss the mixed berries with honey or maple syrup. Set aside.

Serve

Stack the pancakes on plates, top with the berry mixture, and garnish with mint leaves if desired. Enjoy your fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes!

For best results, serve the pancakes immediately while warm.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast option. You can also freeze these pancakes for longer storage. Place parchment paper between each pancake before sealing them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent sticking.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen pancakes, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them as mentioned above. This makes for a convenient meal prep solution, allowing you to enjoy fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes any day of the week without the fuss of making a fresh batch.

Experimenting with Flavors

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding spices or extracts to the pancake batter. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can provide a warm twist, while almond extract can add a nutty richness. You can even try incorporating finely chopped herbs like basil or thyme for a savory variation.

Serving these pancakes with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of whipped cream can also enhance the indulgence. Consider pairing them with a side of Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess, making your breakfast even more satisfying.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking.

→ Can I freeze the pancakes?

Absolutely! Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a similar texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.

Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Berries​

Delight in the light and fluffy texture of these Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, perfectly paired with fresh berries for a sweet and tangy breakfast treat.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 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 cup all-purpose flour
  3. 1/2 cup milk
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 2 tablespoons sugar
  6. 1 tablespoon baking powder
  7. Zest of 1 lemon
  8. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  9. Pinch of salt

For the berry topping

  1. 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  2. 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  3. Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 02

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 03

In a small bowl, toss the mixed berries with honey or maple syrup. Set aside.

Step 04

Stack the pancakes on plates, top with the berry mixture, and garnish with mint leaves if desired. Enjoy your fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 8g