
Simple Homemade Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes with Lemon Syrup
Rise and shine, pancake lovers! These fluffy ricotta pancakes are the ultimate breakfast treat—light, creamy, and oh-so-dreamy. Topped with zesty homemade lemon syrup, they're a citrusy twist on a classic favorite. Let’s whip these up and make your morning extra special!
5.0 out of 5 (4 ratings)

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
American
Ingredients
- •1 cup ricotta cheese
- •3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/4 teaspoon salt
- •2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- •3 large eggs, separated
- •3/4 cup whole milk
- •1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- •2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- •Zest of 1 lemon
- •1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- •1/3 cup granulated sugar (for syrup)
- •1/4 cup water
- •1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for syrup)
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg yolks, milk, vanilla extract, melted butter, and lemon zest until smooth.
- 2
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- 3
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- 4
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the pancake batter until fully incorporated, ensuring the mixture remains light and fluffy.
- 5
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
- 6
Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes until golden brown.
- 7
To prepare the lemon syrup, combine lemon juice, sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- 8
Simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
- 9
Serve the pancakes warm with a drizzle of lemon syrup.
Nutrition Information
Calories
220 calories (per serving, without syrup)
Protein
9g
Carbs
22g
Fat
10g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another ingredient?
A: While ricotta cheese is key to the fluffy texture of these pancakes, you can substitute it with cottage cheese if necessary. Make sure to blend the cottage cheese first to achieve a smooth consistency. Greek yogurt can also work, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make the pancakes gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix that includes xanthan gum for structure. Be cautious not to overmix the batter, as this can affect the fluffiness.
Q: Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
A: This could happen if the egg whites were not beaten to stiff peaks or if they were not folded gently into the batter. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites while folding, as this is what gives the pancakes their light and airy texture. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh and active.
Q: Can I make the lemon syrup ahead of time?
A: Yes, the lemon syrup can be made up to 3 days in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftover pancakes?
A: Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then stack them with a piece of parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Q: Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the pancakes?
A: Absolutely! You can fold in fresh blueberries, raspberries, or chocolate chips to the batter for added flavor. Alternatively, try substituting the lemon zest with orange zest for a different citrus twist. Just be careful not to overmix once the additions are incorporated.
Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the ricotta cheese with a dairy-free ricotta alternative or blended silken tofu for a similar texture. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk, and replace the butter with a neutral-tasting dairy-free butter or coconut oil. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the taste and texture.
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