Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes with Citrus Zest

Name: Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes with Citrus Zest
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 orange; Zest of 1 lemon; Butter or oil for cooking; Maple syrup; Fresh fruit; Powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

Indulge in the fluffy, light texture of Italian-style ricotta pancakes, enhanced with refreshing citrus zest for a delightful breakfast treat.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-13T21:49:49.042Z

These Italian-style ricotta pancakes are a family favorite, combining the rich flavor of ricotta cheese with the brightness of fresh citrus zest. Perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a special breakfast, they are sure to impress your guests.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fluffy and light texture that melts in your mouth
Deliciously balanced with the freshness of citrus
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any day

      

Elevate Your Breakfast Game

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and these Italian-style ricotta pancakes are here to take your morning routine to new heights. Their fluffy texture and rich flavor make them a standout dish, perfect for leisurely weekends or special occasions. The addition of citrus zest not only brightens the pancakes but also offers a refreshing twist that sets them apart from traditional pancakes.

Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself on a weekday morning, these pancakes are versatile enough for any setting. They can be dressed up with an array of toppings or enjoyed plain, making them a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity.

A Healthier Alternative

Using ricotta cheese in your pancake batter not only enhances the flavor but also adds a healthy protein boost. Unlike conventional pancakes that may leave you feeling heavy, these pancakes are light and satisfying. The combination of ricotta and eggs contributes to a fluffy texture while providing essential nutrients, making this breakfast option not just delicious but also nourishing.

Additionally, the use of fresh citrus zest adds a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, further elevating the health benefits of this delightful dish. You can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that doesn't compromise on taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These ricotta pancakes are not just for breakfast; they are incredibly versatile and can be served at any meal. Imagine enjoying these light, fluffy pancakes for brunch with friends, as a delightful dessert, or even as a quick snack. Their subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with savory toppings like smoked salmon or avocado, providing endless possibilities for customization.

Moreover, you can easily prepare the batter ahead of time, making it a practical choice for busy mornings. Just mix and store in the fridge overnight, and you'll have a delicious breakfast ready in minutes!

Ingredients

Pancake Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
Butter or oil for cooking

Toppings (Optional)

Maple syrup
Fresh fruit
Powdered sugar

Gather all ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and citrus zests. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake, cooking until bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Repeat with remaining batter.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy your delicious Italian-style pancakes!

Enjoy these pancakes fresh off the skillet for the best flavor and texture!

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

For the fluffiest pancakes possible, be careful not to overmix your batter. It's perfectly fine if there are a few lumps—this will help retain the light and airy texture that makes these pancakes so special. Additionally, allow your skillet to reach the right temperature before pouring the batter, as this ensures even cooking and a golden crust.

Using a non-stick skillet is key to prevent sticking and achieve that perfect flip. If you're using a regular skillet, don't hesitate to grease it with a bit of butter or oil to keep your pancakes from adhering.

Serving Suggestions

While maple syrup is a classic choice, don't shy away from experimenting with other toppings. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of yogurt can add a delightful twist to your pancakes. For a gourmet touch, try drizzling honey or even a citrus glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

If you're looking for a more indulgent experience, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or serving the pancakes with whipped cream. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor each serving to your taste preferences!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover pancakes, don’t worry; they store beautifully! Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave until warmed through.

This makes ricotta pancakes a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily whip up a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week, ensuring that you always have a delicious, homemade breakfast at your fingertips.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat ricotta cheese, but it may affect the pancake's texture.

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute for a vegan option.

→ Can I freeze the pancakes?

Yes, these pancakes freeze well. Just stack them with parchment paper in between and store in an airtight container.