Lemon ricotta pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, combining the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bright, tangy flavor of lemon. These pancakes are incredibly light and fluffy, with a subtle citrus zing that makes them perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Serve them with fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
4. Heat the Pan:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface.
5. Cook the Pancakes:
- For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter or oil to the skillet as needed.
6. Serve:
- Serve the lemon ricotta pancakes warm with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream are all excellent choices.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense pancakes. Stir until just combined to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients at room temperature helps the batter mix more evenly and results in fluffier pancakes.
- Adjust Heat: If the pancakes are browning too quickly or not cooking through, adjust the heat. Medium to medium-low heat works best for cooking pancakes evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon ricotta pancakes are versatile and can be paired with a variety of toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh Fruit: Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or citrus segments for a burst of flavor.
- Compote: Try a berry compote or fruit syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Nuts: Add toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
- Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and pairs well with the lemon flavor.
Conclusion
Lemon ricotta pancakes are a delicious and unique breakfast treat that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the zesty brightness of lemon. Their light, fluffy texture and tangy flavor make them a standout choice for any breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a delightful morning meal, these pancakes are sure to impress.