Make your weekend brunch special with these Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. They deliver a light, fluffy texture and a bright, tangy flavor that feels luxurious. This recipe fixes common pancake pitfalls for a foolproof result.
Author:Clara Alena
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:About 10 pancakes
Category:Breakfast/Brunch
Method:Griddled
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
2 large eggs, separated
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons melted butter, plus more for the griddle
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the milk, ricotta cheese, egg yolks, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Add the melted butter. Stir gently until just mixed. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the pancake batter in two additions until just incorporated. This step adds the necessary fluffiness.
Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter.
Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot griddle. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve immediately, dusted with powdered sugar if desired, and topped with maple syrup.
Notes
Use whole milk ricotta for the richest texture.
Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for maximum lift.
Folding the egg whites in last is key to achieving a light, airy pancake.
If your batter seems very thick after folding the whites, add one tablespoon of milk at a time until it loosens slightly.