If you’re craving a soft, creamy breakfast with a burst of citrus, these fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes are just the thing. They’re impossibly tender, thanks to rich ricotta cheese, and the bright lemon flavor adds a fresh twist to your morning. I’ve made these for lazy Sunday brunches, special birthdays, and even breakfast for dinner nights. Every time, they come out golden on the outside, soft on the inside, and completely irresistible. Whether topped with syrup, berries, or a dusting of sugar, they’re pure morning joy on a plate.
Why You’ll Love These Pancakes
- Ultra fluffy – The ricotta adds moisture and structure, making them soft without being heavy.
- Bright lemon flavor – Lemon zest and juice lift the flavor and balance the richness.
- Quick and easy – Just whisk, pour, and flip. They’re ready in under 15 minutes!
- Elegant but simple – Perfect for guests or everyday mornings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup (drained if very wet) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Milk | ¾ cup |
| Lemon zest | Zest of 1 lemon |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract (optional) | 1 tsp |
| All purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1½ tsp |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Butter or oil | For cooking |
Step by Step to Make Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta, eggs, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla (if using).
- Whisk until smooth and slightly frothy.
2: Add the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined. Do not overmix a few lumps are fine.
3: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Scoop about ¼ cup batter per pancake onto the hot surface and spread gently into rounds.
- Cook 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on top and the edges look set, then flip and cook another 2 minutes until golden and cooked through.
“The ricotta makes these melt in your mouth soft. I’ve tried a dozen recipes, but this one is hands down the best for lemon lovers.”
Topping Ideas That Take These Pancakes Over the Top
These pancakes are fantastic on their own, but I love dressing them up for brunch or a weekend treat. The lemon flavor pairs beautifully with all kinds of toppings. Here are some of my favorites:
- Fresh berries – Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries add color and brightness.
- Honey or maple syrup – A classic, but with that citrus tang it becomes something special.
- Greek yogurt + lemon zest – Adds creaminess and a bit of tangy contrast to the sweet pancakes.
- Lemon glaze – Just mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzle over warm stacks.
- Crushed pistachios – For a crunchy, elegant finish.
Creative Variations You’ll Want to Try
Want to make this recipe your own? Here’s how to keep things fresh each time you make it:
- Add blueberries to the batter for a lemon blueberry twist they burst as they cook and create little pockets of juice.
- Swap in orange zest and juice for a sunny variation with a different citrus vibe.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a bakery style taste.
- Add chia seeds for a little extra texture and fiber.
- Make them mini for brunch platters or kid friendly portions.
How to Store and Reheat
- To store: Let pancakes cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Warm in a nonstick skillet over low heat or microwave in 10-second bursts until heated through.
- To freeze: Stack with parchment between each pancake and freeze in a zip top bag. Reheat straight from frozen.
Make Ahead Tip
If you’re prepping for guests, make the batter the night before! Store it covered in the fridge, then give it a light stir before cooking in the morning. The flavors deepen overnight, and your morning just got way easier.
“The lemon zest perfume hits the air before the pancakes even hit the plate. It’s like waking up in a citrus garden.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these pancakes gluten free?
Yes! Just substitute a 1:1 gluten free all purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture remains soft and fluffy with great flavor.
What type of ricotta should I use?
Use full fat ricotta for the richest taste and creamiest texture. If it’s very wet, drain it slightly with a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth before using.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe doubles beautifully. Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven while you finish the batch.
Why are my pancakes too runny or thick?
If the batter seems too loose, add 1 extra tablespoon of flour. If it’s too thick to pour, add a splash more milk. Ricotta can vary in moisture, so adjust as needed.
Can I make these without lemon?
You can! Just leave out the zest and juice, and increase the vanilla extract slightly for a more classic ricotta pancake base.
Final Thoughts from the Kitchen
These fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes have become a weekend ritual in my home. The way the lemon balances the rich cheese, the soft middle with crisp edges it’s a recipe I never get tired of. Whether you serve them with syrup or something fancier, every bite feels like you’re starting the day on the right foot. I hope you enjoy them as much as we do. ☀️🍋