Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
I absolutely love starting my day with a stack of Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. There’s something incredibly joyful about waking up to the aroma of fluffy pancakes infused with zesty lemon. One sunny morning, I decided to experiment with my standard pancake recipe, adding a touch of ricotta cheese and fresh lemons from my garden. The result was nothing short of magical! Each bite is light and airy, with that perfect citrus kick that brightens your mood. These pancakes quickly became a weekend favorite in my household, often served with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream. I remember the first time I made them for my family; the smiles on their faces told me I had struck gold in the kitchen!
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
15 mins
15 mins
Easy
260 kcal
7g g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10g g
Blender, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl
What Makes This Lemon Ricotta Pancakes Special
1. A Unique Twist on a Classic
What sets Lemon Ricotta Pancakes apart from ordinary pancakes is the addition of ricotta cheese. This ingredient not only adds a creamy texture but also a richness that elevates the flavor profile significantly. It transforms your breakfast from mundane to extraordinary!
2. Refreshing Citrus Flavor
The zing of fresh lemon juice and zest in the pancake batter brings a vibrant freshness that is simply irresistible. This bright flavor makes the pancakes delightful for any season, especially spring when lemons are at their peak.
3. Perfectly Fluffy and Light
Thanks to the ricotta and the careful mixing of the batter, these pancakes are incredibly fluffy. You’ll love how they practically melt in your mouth, making them a wonderful treat for breakfast or brunch.
4. Quick and Easy to Make
With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these pancakes in no time. Perfect for those busy mornings or lazy weekends when you want to impress without too much effort!
5. Versatile Toppings
These pancakes are a fantastic canvas for your favorite toppings. Whether you prefer a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkling of powdered sugar, or fresh berries, you can customize each stack to your liking!
6. Family-Friendly Dish
Kids love these pancakes! They’re not only delicious but also a fun way to introduce new flavors to your little ones. You can even let them help out in the kitchen for some family bonding time.
7. Meal Prep Friendly
These pancakes freeze beautifully, making them a great option for make-ahead breakfasts. You can prepare a batch, freeze them, and then simply reheat in the oven or microwave when you need a quick meal.
Shopping List for Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Every great dish starts with quality ingredients. The combination of all-purpose flour, ricotta cheese, and fresh lemon juice creates a rich flavor that is both satisfying and refreshing. This blend brings together texture and taste, making the pancakes not only delicious but also a delightful experience to prepare.
- 2 cups (240g) All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your pancake batter, providing the necessary structure.
- 1/4 cup (50g) Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness, balancing the tartness of the lemon.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons Baking Soda: Helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.
- 3/4 teaspoon Baking Powder: Works in conjunction with baking soda for light texture.
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pancakes.
- 2 large Eggs, Room Temperature: They help bind the batter and add richness.
- 1 and 1/2 cups (340ml) Whole Milk: Contributes to a moist and tender pancake.
- 1 cup (227g) Full-Fat Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and a delightful texture to the pancakes.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract: Introduces a warm note of sweetness.
- 1/4 cup (57ml) Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides that refreshing acidity and tang.
- 2 teaspoons Lemon Zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor, making the pancakes vibrant.
- Maple Syrup or Fresh Whipped Cream: Perfect for serving with your pancakes!
Step by Step Guide for Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Making Lemon Ricotta Pancakes is a joyous experience that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful breakfast that everyone will rave about.
- In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; whisk well to combine. This dry mixture is essential for giving your pancakes structure. Aim for a uniform blend, as uneven distribution can lead to inconsistencies in texture.
- In a separate bowl, add the eggs and lightly beat them with a whisk. Incorporate the milk, ricotta, and vanilla and beat until well combined. This wet mixture is crucial for achieving the creamy texture that defines these pancakes.
- Stir this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to over-mix. The batter should still have some lumps, which will help keep the pancakes fluffy.
- Quickly fold in the lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring until evenly combined. The zest is what truly makes these pancakes shine, bringing out that bright, zesty flavor.
- Preheat a buttered hot pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour batter by 1/3 cupfuls onto the pan, ensuring there’s space for them to spread without blending together. Watch for small bubbles forming on the surface.
- Cook for about 3 minutes until the edges appear set and bubbles start to form on top. Flip the pancakes over when they’re golden brown on the bottom.
- Continue cooking on the second side until golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is vital for achieving that perfect pancake color and texture.
- Repeat with all pancake batter, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning. If you find that the pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
- Serve pancakes warm with maple syrup or whipped cream, and enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade creation!
Things Worth Knowing
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and milk helps create a smoother batter, which results in lighter pancakes.
- Don’t Over-Mix: Mixing the batter until just combined keeps the pancakes fluffy. Over-mixing activates the gluten in the flour, leading to denser pancakes.
- Use a Hot Pan: Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the batter. A properly heated surface creates a good sear on the pancakes, enhancing their flavor.
- Test for Doneness: Besides color, check for small bubbles forming on the top before flipping. This indicates they’re ready to be turned.
Change It Up
Feel free to personalize your Lemon Ricotta Pancakes experience with these fun tips!
- Storage: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet.
- Freezing: To freeze, place cooled pancakes between layers of waxed paper, then place them in a freezer-safe plastic bag, squeezing out excess air. They will keep for 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Pairing: Serve these pancakes with a side of fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Variations: Experiment with different flavor combinations by adding blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist.
- Serving Styles: Try serving them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of honey for a protein-packed breakfast.
Accompaniments for Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
To make your breakfast experience even more delightful with Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, consider these tasty accompaniments:
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of flavor and color, making your plate look inviting and vibrant.
- Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can be drizzled over the pancakes for an elegant touch that enhances their deliciousness.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Pair your pancakes with a yogurt parfait featuring layers of creamy yogurt, granola, and fruit for a wholesome breakfast.
- Whipped Cream: A light dollop of freshly whipped cream adds indulgence without being overly heavy.
- Seasonal Flavors: Depending on the season, consider adding pumpkin spice or cinnamon to the batter for a seasonal twist.
- Weekend Brunch: These pancakes are perfect for brunch gatherings, served alongside a refreshing mimosa or your favorite coffee.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful way to start your day, combining rich flavors and fluffy textures that everyone will enjoy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite breakfast.
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; whisk well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, add the eggs and lightly beat them with a whisk. Add in the milk, ricotta, and vanilla and beat until well combined.
- Stir this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Quickly fold in the lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring until evenly combined.
- Pour batter by 1/3 cupfuls onto a buttered hot pan or griddle, adding only a few at a time so that they do not blend together. Cook for about 3 minutes before flipping them over, or until small bubbles form on top.
- Cook on the second side until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Repeat with all pancake batter.
- Serve pancakes warm, with maple syrup or whipped cream.
Notes
- Tip 1: To freeze: place cooled pancakes between layers of waxed paper, then place them in a freezer-safe plastic bag, squeezing out any excess air before sealing the bag and placing it in the freezer. Pancakes will keep in the freezer for 2 months.
- Tip 2: To reheat, heat your oven to 375 degrees (F). Place the pancakes in a single layer on a large baking pan; cover with tinfoil and heat in a preheated oven for 6-8 minutes, or until warm.
- Tip 3: You may also microwave 3-4 pancakes at a time for about 40 seconds, or until heated through.
