Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Zesty Fluffiness Awaits (Lemon Ricotta Pancakes)
Welcome to a breakfast experience that dances on your taste buds! These Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are the ultimate morning treat, blending creamy ricotta with the zing of fresh lemon. Imagine biting into these light, fluffy pancakes that are not only elegant but also bursting with bright flavors, making them perfect for indulgent weekend brunches or those special mornings when you want to savor every bite. Let’s whisk up some sunshine on your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with breakfast all over again! These pancakes are sure to brighten your day.
– Big, Bright Flavors: The zesty lemon and creamy ricotta create a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends—everyone will be asking for seconds!
– Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time!
– Versatile Delight: Enjoy them sweet with maple syrup or go savory with a sprinkle of herbs—the choice is yours!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather the goodies that make these Lemon Ricotta Pancakes so delightful! From the creamy ricotta to the zesty lemon, these ingredients promise a breakfast that’s anything but ordinary.
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Butter or oil for cooking
– Maple syrup for serving
– Fresh lemon wedges and mint for garnish

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
The beauty of Lemon Ricotta Pancakes is their versatility! Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to suit your taste:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend.
– Add Extra Protein: Mix in some protein powder or Greek yogurt for an extra boost.
– Make it Spicier: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter adds a warm twist.
– Swap the Dressing: Instead of maple syrup, try a dollop of Greek yogurt with honey!
– Colorful Additions: Toss in blueberries or raspberries for a fruity flair!
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Ready to make these delightful pancakes? Follow these easy steps for a breakfast that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is well-combined and fluffy.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, buttermilk, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and gently stir until just combined. Don’t worry about mixing out all the lumps—some lumps are perfectly fine!
Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Place a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil, letting it melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until you see bubbles forming on the surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they’re golden brown and fluffy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these delectable pancakes warm, drizzled with maple syrup and garnished with fresh lemon wedges and mint for that extra touch of elegance!
Pro Tips for Making Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
– Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your ricotta and eggs come to room temperature for a smoother batter.
– Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
– Temperature Check: If your pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to ensure they cook through without burning.
– Keep Warm: If making a big batch, keep pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while you cook the rest.
How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Garnishes
Elevate your pancakes with beautiful garnishes! Consider adding fresh berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of lemon curd on top for a burst of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these pancakes with crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness with savory or healthy options.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun serving twist, stack the pancakes high on a platter, or place individual pancakes in cups with a side of maple syrup for a charming brunch display!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll be ready for a quick breakfast fix!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these pancakes! Flash freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat pancakes in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. They’re just as delightful the second time around!
FAQs
Can I use almond milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute almond milk, but for that tangy buttermilk flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vinegar to the almond milk.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! These pancakes are light and refreshing, with a lovely citrus flavor.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend, and you’re all set!
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge for a quick morning cook.
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful way to start your day, bursting with flavor and a hint of elegance that will make breakfast feel special. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting a brunch, this recipe is sure to impress! So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to whip up a stack of these zesty delights. Happy cooking! 🍋🥞
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, a perfect blend of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon that delivers a light and elegant breakfast experience. These fluffy pancakes are an ideal choice for weekend brunches or special mornings, promising to brighten your day with their fresh citrus notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 4 servings (4–6 pancakes) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American/Italian
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup for serving
- Fresh lemon wedges and mint for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix ricotta, buttermilk, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; some lumps are okay.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil.
- Pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake; cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm topped with maple syrup and garnish with lemon wedges and mint.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake (about 60g)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg