Simple Fluffy Ricotta Lemon Pancakes

January 15, 2025

Get ready to flip your breakfast game with these Simple Fluffy Ricotta Lemon Pancakes! Bright, zesty lemon meets creamy ricotta for the dreamiest stack you'll ever taste. Whether it's brunch or just because, these pancakes are here to make your morning absolutely delicious! Let's cook!

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Oh, pancakes. Is there anything better than waking up to the smell of something golden and sizzling on the griddle? Today, I’m here to share a recipe that is about to take your pancake game to a whole new level—Simple Fluffy Ricotta Lemon Pancakes. These are not just your average breakfast stack; they’re basically like having dessert for breakfast but in a totally acceptable way. Fluffy clouds of pancake goodness infused with the brightness of lemon and the creamy richness of ricotta. Pair them with a cup of coffee, and you’ll be floating on a breakfast cloud in no time. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll wonder how you ever survived with plain old pancakes.

Simple Fluffy Ricotta Lemon Pancakes Recipe

So, what’s the big deal about these pancakes? Two words: ricotta and lemon. Ricotta cheese gives them an almost soufflé-like texture that’s soft and moist while still being fluffy enough to stack high. Then there’s the lemon—a pop of citrusy sunshine that cuts through the richness and brings everything to life! But wait, there’s more. A touch of vanilla adds warmth, and a little zest plays up the aromatic magic. This recipe is an applause-worthy combo of savory and sweet, luxurious yet effortless. You’ll be whipping these up whether it’s a casual weekday breakfast or a fancy brunch with friends.

Now, let’s talk tips because I want every pancake you make to feel like it was kissed by a breakfast angel. First, don’t overmix your batter—lumps are your friend here! It keeps the pancakes fluffy instead of dense. Let your skillet or griddle heat properly before cooking; if it’s too cool, your pancakes won’t crisp on the edges. Oh, and here’s a secret: when you notice tiny bubbles forming on the surface, that’s your pancake begging to be flipped. Use a light hand with the spatula, and don’t race the clock. Also, adding a little extra zest or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter? Highly recommended.

Why stop at maple syrup when you can dress up these pancakes? A dollop of whipped cream, a handful of fresh berries, or a drizzle of lemony glaze will make your breakfast plate look like it belongs in a café. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the lemon for orange or grapefruit zest for a twist. These pancakes are also perfect for freezing—make a batch ahead and simply reheat for weekday mornings when you need a little sunshine on your plate. Just promise me you’ll savor every bite, okay? These pancakes deserve all the love.

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•1 cup ricotta cheese
•2 large eggs
•1/2 cup milk
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract
•2 tablespoons granulated sugar
•1 tablespoon lemon zest
•1 cup all-purpose flour
•1 teaspoon baking powder
•1/4 teaspoon baking soda
•Pinch of salt
•Butter or oil for cooking
•Maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving (optional)

Instructions

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
5
Scoop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface.
6
Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7
Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed.
8
Serve warm with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

180 calories per serving

Protein

Carbs

22g

Fat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another ingredient?

A: Ricotta cheese is key to the fluffiness and texture of these pancakes. However, if you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute it with cottage cheese blended until smooth or mascarpone cheese. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Q: Can I use a different type of flour?

A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the pancakes might be slightly denser. For a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Avoid using almond or coconut flour directly as they require different liquid ratios.

Q: Can I make this batter ahead of time?

A: It’s best to make the batter fresh because the baking powder and baking soda lose their effectiveness over time, which can affect the fluffiness of the pancakes. If you need to prepare ahead, mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and combine them just before cooking.

Q: Why are my pancakes not fluffy?

A: There are a few reasons this could happen. Make sure you’re not overmixing the batter, as that can develop gluten and create dense pancakes. Also, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and not expired. Finally, ensure your skillet isn’t too hot, as cooking too quickly can prevent the pancakes from rising evenly.

Q: Can I freeze leftover pancakes?

A: Yes, you can freeze cooked pancakes. Let them cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in a toaster or microwave.

Q: Can I add fruit or other mix-ins to the batter?

A: Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or chocolate chips make great additions to the batter. Be sure to fold them in gently after mixing the wet and dry ingredients to avoid overmixing. You can also sprinkle them onto the pancakes while cooking for even distribution.

Q: What are some serving suggestions for these pancakes?

A: These pancakes are delicious with classic maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a fresh twist, top with whipped cream and fresh berries, or drizzle with lemon glaze for extra citrus flavor. You can also pair them with yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a lighter option.

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