Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

These Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Light, airy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they are perfect for a special morning treat.

Emily Carter

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-08T18:41:28.696Z

Transform your breakfast routine with these Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. The addition of ricotta cheese makes them incredibly moist and fluffy, while the fresh lemon zest adds a refreshing zing. Perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy family breakfast, these pancakes are sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Bright lemon flavor that awakens your taste buds
  • Easy to make and perfect for any breakfast occasion

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are not just a meal; they are an experience. The combination of ricotta cheese and fresh lemon zest creates a unique texture that is both light and creamy. These pancakes are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast. Imagine serving these delightful treats to your family or friends, who will surely be impressed by your culinary skills and the refreshing flavors.

One of the best aspects of these pancakes is their versatility. You can enjoy them as they are or customize them with various toppings to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a handful of fresh berries, these pancakes provide a delightful canvas for your favorite breakfast accompaniments.

Why Lemon and Ricotta Work Together

Lemon and ricotta are a match made in culinary heaven. The bright acidity of lemon enhances the creamy richness of ricotta, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This combination not only elevates the taste of the pancakes but also gives them an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking.

Moreover, ricotta cheese adds moisture to the batter, resulting in pancakes that are incredibly fluffy and tender. The lemon zest brightens the flavor profile, making each bite refreshing and invigorating. This unique blend is what sets these pancakes apart from traditional recipes and makes them a favorite among breakfast lovers.

Ingredients

Pancake Ingredients

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Butter or oil for cooking

Mix all ingredients well for fluffy pancakes!

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, milk, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually fold in the flour until just combined.

Cook the Pancakes

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

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Enjoy your delicious Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes!

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

To achieve the fluffiest pancakes, avoid overmixing the batter. Gently folding the flour into the wet ingredients ensures that the pancakes maintain their airy texture. It's okay if there are a few lumps in the batter; this will help keep them light and fluffy.

Another tip is to let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. This allows the baking powder to activate fully and can result in an even lighter pancake. Additionally, make sure your skillet is adequately heated before pouring the batter to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust.

Serving Suggestions

These Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are delicious on their own, but adding toppings can take them to the next level. Consider serving them with a compote made from seasonal fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a burst of natural sweetness and color on your plate.

If you want to indulge a bit more, try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful treat. Pair your pancakes with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced meal that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pancakes, don't worry! They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast option during the week.

You can also freeze the pancakes for longer storage. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They can be reheated directly from the freezer, making them a convenient choice for busy mornings.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

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

→ Can I freeze the pancakes?

Absolutely! Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different flavor and texture.

Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

These Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Light, airy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they are perfect for a special morning treat.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emily Carter

Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Pancake Ingredients

  1. 1 cup ricotta cheese
  2. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  3. 1/2 cup milk
  4. 3 large eggs
  5. 1/4 cup sugar
  6. 2 teaspoons baking powder
  7. Zest of 1 lemon
  8. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  9. Pinch of salt
  10. Butter or oil for cooking

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, milk, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually fold in the flour until just combined.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 10g