Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful breakfast treat that combines the bright flavor of lemon with the creamy texture of ricotta cheese. This recipe is perfect for those who crave something light and fluffy, yet rich in taste. The ricotta adds a unique twist, making these pancakes extra moist and tender. With hints of fresh lemon juice and zest, each bite bursts with citrusy goodness that will wake up your taste buds.

These pancakes are easy to make, making them a great choice for brunch with friends or a cozy Sunday breakfast at home. You can easily whip up a batch in just a few steps, and they pair beautifully with a variety of toppings like fresh blueberries, powdered sugar, or even more lemon zest. Whether you’re a pancake lover or just looking to try something new, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are sure to become a new favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a great way to start your day with a burst of flavor. They are light but filling, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch. The combination of ricotta and lemon sets this recipe apart from regular pancakes, providing a unique and enjoyable taste experience. Plus, they are simple to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile addition to your breakfast menu.

How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
3 tablespoons granulated white sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
½ cup ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Extra ricotta, lemon zest, powdered sugar & blueberries (for serving)

Directions:

Grab two bowls, one large and one medium. In the large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined. In the medium bowl, add the milk and ricotta and whisk until blended. Then add the eggs, beating in between each addition. Next, add the vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the blended wet ingredients. Gently fold it in until just combined, being careful not to over mix, as this will make the pancakes tough. We want fluffy pancakes!

Melt or brush butter onto a large griddle and heat to medium. Scoop pancake batter onto the griddle, about a cup at a time (or smaller if you want smaller pancakes). When bubbles appear, flip the pancakes over and cook for another minute or two until golden brown on both sides.

OPTIONAL: Serve with extra toppings of your choice.

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Serve these delicious pancakes warm, stacked high, and topped with extra ricotta, fresh berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a little bit of lemon zest. You can also drizzle some maple syrup or add a dollop of yogurt to enhance the flavor.

How to Store Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

If you have leftovers, let the pancakes cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pancakes by placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will last in the freezer for about a month.

Tips to Make Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

• Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure fluffy pancakes.
• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor from juice and zest.
• Preheat the griddle to the right temperature for even cooking.
• Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pancakes.
• Experiment with different toppings to customize your pancakes.

Variation

You can add blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter for a different twist. Switching out lemon for orange can also give a unique flavor to the pancakes. Additionally, try adding some chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
   Yes, but the texture will be slightly different.

2. Are these pancakes gluten-free?
   You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

3. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
   It’s best to make the batter just before cooking for the fluffiest pancakes.

4. How can I make these pancakes dairy-free?
   Substitute the ricotta with a dairy-free cheese and the milk with a non-dairy milk alternative.

5. Can I reheat these pancakes?
   Yes! Reheat them in a toaster or microwave until warmed through.