Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Short Description

Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a light, fluffy, and flavorful breakfast option that blend the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bright zest of lemon and the sweet burst of fresh blueberries. These pancakes are a perfect choice for a weekend brunch or any morning when you want something a little more special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and tender texture thanks to ricotta cheese
• Bright, fresh flavor from lemon zest and juice
• Bursts of sweetness from fresh blueberries
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Perfect for both casual breakfasts and elegant brunches

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• all-purpose flour
• granulated sugar
• baking powder
• salt
• whole milk ricotta cheese
• milk
• lemon zest
• lemon juice
• vanilla extract
• large eggs, separated
• fresh blueberries
• butter or oil, for cooking

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another large bowl, combine ricotta, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and egg yolks. Stir until smooth.
3. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the batter to keep it airy.
5. Fold in the blueberries evenly.
6. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
7. Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form and edges set, about 2–3 minutes.
8. Flip and cook the other side until golden, about 2 minutes more.
9. Repeat with remaining batter.
10. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 10 pancakes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
• Substitute with plant-based ricotta and milk for a dairy-free option
• Try raspberries or blackberries instead of blueberries
• Add chopped nuts for extra texture
• Replace lemon with orange for a different citrus twist

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Lay pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat in a toaster, oven, microwave, or on a skillet over medium heat for best texture

FAQs

What makes these pancakes different from regular pancakes?

Ricotta cheese and lemon zest make these pancakes extra fluffy with a rich, tangy flavor that sets them apart.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, just add them straight from the freezer to the batter without thawing to avoid discoloration.

Is it necessary to beat and fold in the egg whites?

Yes, this step helps give the pancakes a lighter and fluffier texture.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can mix the wet and dry ingredients separately ahead of time, but combine them right before cooking for best results.

Are these pancakes sweet?

They are mildly sweet, with most of the sweetness coming from the blueberries and optional toppings like syrup.

What toppings go well with these pancakes?

Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, lemon curd, or additional fresh berries work beautifully.

Can I make mini pancakes?

Yes, just use smaller scoops of batter and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make these pancakes more lemony?

Add more lemon zest or a small splash of lemon extract to enhance the citrus flavor.

Can I use part-skim ricotta?

Yes, part-skim ricotta will work fine, though full-fat ricotta offers the best richness.

Do I need to grease the pan for every batch?

If using a non-stick pan, you may only need to grease it occasionally. Otherwise, reapply a light layer of butter or oil between batches.

Conclusion

Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, combining the creamy texture of ricotta with fresh, fruity flavors. Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch or a weekday treat, these pancakes are easy to make and sure to impress. Their balanced flavor and fluffy texture make them a standout dish you’ll want to revisit often.

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