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The Ultimate Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: Quick & Easy Brunch Recipe

A stack of three fluffy ricotta pancakes drizzled with syrup and topped with fresh raspberries.

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Make light, airy, and creamy ricotta pancakes infused with bright lemon zest. This easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying weekend breakfast or brunch stack.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for the griddle
  • Optional: 1/4 cup fresh blueberries or strawberries for topping

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg yolks, milk, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
  3. Pour the melted butter into the ricotta mixture and whisk to combine.
  4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
  5. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  6. Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the pancake batter in two additions. This step creates the light and airy texture.
  7. Heat a lightly buttered griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cup measures onto the hot surface.
  8. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Flip carefully.
  9. Serve immediately stacked high with maple syrup and fresh berries.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use full-fat ricotta cheese.
  • To make these high protein pancakes, you can substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with your favorite unflavored protein powder.
  • If you want vanilla ricotta pancakes instead of lemon, omit the lemon zest and juice and add 1/2 teaspoon more vanilla extract.
  • These pancakes are best eaten right away for maximum fluffiness.

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