Moist Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

Experience the delightful combination of zesty lemon and creamy ricotta in these moist pancakes that are perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-08T18:09:28.693Z

These Moist Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic pancake recipe. The ricotta adds a wonderful creaminess while the lemon zest provides a refreshing zing. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these pancakes will become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your morning
  • Rich and creamy texture thanks to the ricotta
  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Pancakes are a beloved breakfast staple, and these Moist Lemon Ricotta Pancakes take the classic recipe to new heights. With the addition of ricotta cheese, they become incredibly fluffy and moist, making them a delightful morning treat. The zesty flavor of lemon adds a refreshing twist that can awaken your senses and brighten your day. Whether you're enjoying them on a lazy weekend or preparing a special brunch for guests, these pancakes are sure to impress.

Pair these pancakes with fresh fruits or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness. The balance of creamy ricotta and tart lemon creates a flavor profile that is both satisfying and unique. You can also experiment with toppings like whipped cream or yogurt to enhance the experience further. This recipe is versatile enough to cater to different tastes while ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Health Benefits of Ricotta and Lemon

Ricotta cheese is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. Incorporating ricotta into your diet can aid in muscle repair and promote healthy bones. By using ricotta in pancakes, you can enjoy a breakfast that nourishes your body while also pleasing your palate.

Lemon, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of vitamin C and antioxidants. It supports a healthy immune system and can help improve digestion. Adding lemon zest and juice to these pancakes not only enhances their flavor but also contributes to your daily intake of essential nutrients. This makes your breakfast not just a treat, but a wholesome way to start your day.

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

To achieve the fluffiest pancakes, make sure not to overmix the batter. Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined will yield light and airy pancakes. If you notice a few lumps in the batter, that's perfectly fine; they will disappear during cooking. Allowing the batter to rest for a few minutes can also help achieve that perfect texture.

When cooking your pancakes, ensure that the skillet is evenly heated. You can test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, your skillet is ready. Adding a little butter or oil to the pan before pouring the batter will help create that golden-brown crust we all love. Don't rush the cooking process; patience is key for perfect pancakes.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Butter or oil for cooking

Make sure to use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor!

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Serve warm with your favorite syrup or fresh berries.

Enjoy your delicious lemon ricotta pancakes!

Serving Suggestions

These Moist Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of toppings. Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries complement the lemon flavor beautifully and add a burst of color to your plate. You can also try a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and a hint of tartness.

For a decadent touch, drizzle warm maple syrup or honey over the pancakes. If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a scoop of whipped cream. These toppings not only enhance the flavors but also make for a stunning presentation.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover pancakes, they can easily be stored for future enjoyment. Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in a toaster, microwave, or skillet. A quick reheat will restore their fluffy texture and delicious flavor. This makes it easy to have a delightful breakfast ready in no time, even on the busiest of mornings.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even poppy seeds to the batter for a different flavor profile. If you're a fan of spices, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth to the pancakes.

For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will enhance the nutritional content while still keeping the pancakes fluffy and delicious. Experimenting with different citrus fruits, such as orange or lime, can also create exciting variations that are worth trying.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?

Yes, low-fat ricotta can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to make the batter fresh, but you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine them just before cooking.

→ What can I serve with these pancakes?

These pancakes are delicious with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

→ Can I freeze leftover pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze the pancakes. Just place parchment paper between them and store in an airtight container.

Moist Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Experience the delightful combination of zesty lemon and creamy ricotta in these moist pancakes that are perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Fresh Baking Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pancakes

  1. 1 cup ricotta cheese
  2. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  3. 2 large eggs
  4. 1/4 cup milk
  5. 1/4 cup sugar
  6. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  7. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  8. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  9. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  10. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  11. Butter or oil for cooking

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.

Step 02

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 03

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 04

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 05

Serve warm with your favorite syrup or fresh berries.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 10g