Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes with Citrus Zest

Name: Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes with Citrus Zest
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; Zest of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 orange; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

Delight in the fluffy texture and zesty flavor of these Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes, perfect for a weekend brunch.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-12-13T18:09:49.824Z

Discover the joy of Italian cooking with these delightful ricotta pancakes. Light and fluffy, they are perfect for breakfast or brunch. The addition of citrus zest adds a refreshing twist that makes them even more enjoyable.

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Rich ricotta flavor combined with fresh citrus notes
Fluffy and light texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile for breakfast, brunch, or dessert

      

The Perfect Weekend Treat

These Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes are the perfect way to elevate your weekend brunch. Their fluffy texture combined with the rich flavor of ricotta and the brightness of citrus zest makes for a delightful morning treat. Whether you're serving them to family or enjoying a quiet meal alone, these pancakes are sure to impress.

Imagine starting your day with a stack of these light and airy pancakes, drizzled with maple syrup or topped with fresh berries. The unique blend of ricotta and citrus creates a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, making them not just a meal, but an experience. Try them once, and they might just become your new brunch staple.

A Versatile Dish

One of the best features of these ricotta pancakes is their versatility. They can easily transition from a breakfast item to a sweet dessert. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a delightful end to your meal, or pair them with savory toppings like smoked salmon for a brunch twist.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by incorporating your favorite fruits into the batter or changing up the citrus zest. The adaptability of this recipe means you can enjoy these pancakes year-round, customizing them to match the season or your personal taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Ricotta cheese is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's a great source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins, making these pancakes a more wholesome choice compared to traditional options. The addition of fresh citrus zest also provides a boost of vitamin C, adding a refreshing touch to your meal.

Choosing these pancakes means you can enjoy a tasty breakfast without sacrificing nutrition. With their light texture and rich flavors, they offer the perfect balance of indulgence and health, ensuring you feel satisfied and energized for the day ahead.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious pancakes:

Pancake Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious ricotta pancakes:

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, orange zest, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings such as syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. Enjoy!

Now you can enjoy these delightful pancakes!

Cooking Tips

To achieve the perfect pancake texture, be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir until the ingredients are just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will help ensure your pancakes remain light and fluffy, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth experience that makes them so special.

If you want to keep your pancakes warm while cooking multiple batches, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F) until you're ready to serve. This way, they’ll stay warm and delicious for your guests.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful brunch experience, serve these pancakes with a variety of toppings. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a sprinkle of nuts can add extra flavor and texture. Consider a drizzle of honey or a flavored syrup for an added touch of sweetness.

You can also serve these pancakes alongside a light salad or a protein option, such as crispy bacon or eggs, making it a well-rounded meal. The combination of flavors will surely impress your family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover pancakes, don’t worry! They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, these pancakes can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer, making them a convenient option for busy mornings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?

Yes, low-fat ricotta cheese can be used for a lighter option.

→ How can I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What toppings go well with ricotta pancakes?

These pancakes pair well with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.