Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Featured in: Baking & Sweet Treats

These light and fluffy ricotta pancakes combine creamy cheese and soft egg whites to create an airy texture. Lemon zest adds a refreshing note, while gentle folding preserves the batter’s lift. Cooked on a nonstick skillet with butter, they develop golden edges and tender centers. Ideal for breakfast or brunch, these pancakes pair well with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Variations include whole wheat flour or Greek yogurt for extra flavor and protein.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 15:23:00 GMT
Golden-brown, light and fluffy ricotta pancakes, perfect with fresh berries and maple syrup for brunch. Pin It
Golden-brown, light and fluffy ricotta pancakes, perfect with fresh berries and maple syrup for brunch. | pecanpan.com

Delicate, airy pancakes enriched with creamy ricotta cheese, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.

I love making these pancakes on weekends as a treat for my family. They always ask for seconds!

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour: 1 cup (125 g)
  • Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp
  • Baking powder: 1 tsp
  • Baking soda: ½ tsp
  • Salt: ¼ tsp
  • Ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim): 1 cup (240 g)
  • Milk: ¾ cup (180 ml)
  • Eggs, separated: 2 large
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
  • Lemon zest (optional): Zest of 1 lemon
  • Melted unsalted butter: 2 tbsp plus more for cooking

Instructions

Step 1:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, milk, egg yolks, vanilla, lemon zest (if using), and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
Step 3:
Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined (do not overmix& lumps are fine).
Step 4:
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, preserving as much air as possible for fluffiness.
Step 5:
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush lightly with butter.
Step 6:
Pour ¼ cup batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes, until golden.
Step 7:
Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Fluffy ricotta pancakes, cooked to perfection, shown with a dusting of powdered sugar and a warm serving. Pin It
Fluffy ricotta pancakes, cooked to perfection, shown with a dusting of powdered sugar and a warm serving. | pecanpan.com

This recipe always brings my family together at the breakfast table, enjoying a lovely start to the day.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.

Variations

Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist or substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

A stack of light and fluffy ricotta pancakes, a creamy breakfast treat, ready to be enjoyed with family. Pin It
A stack of light and fluffy ricotta pancakes, a creamy breakfast treat, ready to be enjoyed with family. | pecanpan.com

These ricotta pancakes are a delightful and easy breakfast option that everyone will enjoy.

Questions & Answers

How does ricotta affect pancake texture?

Ricotta adds moisture and creaminess, resulting in tender, fluffy pancakes with a delicate crumb.

What is the purpose of folding in egg whites?

Folding beaten egg whites gently incorporates air, creating a light and airy batter without deflating it.

Can lemon zest be substituted or omitted?

Lemon zest enhances freshness but can be omitted or replaced with a splash of vanilla or orange zest.

Is it better to use whole milk or part-skim ricotta?

Whole milk ricotta provides richer flavor and creamier texture, but part-skim works well for a lighter option.

What alternatives exist for all-purpose flour?

Whole wheat flour can be used for nuttier flavor, though it may alter texture slightly.

How should pancakes be cooked for best results?

Cook on a medium-heat nonstick skillet with butter until bubbles form and edges set, then flip to golden brown.

Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Delicate, airy pancakes enriched with creamy ricotta and subtle lemon zest for a perfect brunch.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
15 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Created by Anthony Hughes


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Details Vegetarian-Friendly

What You Need

Dry Ingredients

01 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 ½ teaspoon baking soda
05 ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

01 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
02 ¾ cup milk
03 2 large eggs, separated
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
06 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for cooking

How-To

Step 01

Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.

Step 02

Blend Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon zest if using, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 03

Incorporate Wet into Dry: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined; some lumps are acceptable to maintain texture.

Step 04

Whip Egg Whites: Beat egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form, then carefully fold them into the batter to preserve air for fluffiness.

Step 05

Prepare Cooking Surface: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly brush with butter.

Step 06

Cook Pancakes: Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles appear and edges are set, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden.

Step 07

Serve: Serve warm topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar as preferred.

Tools You Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk for egg whites
  • Nonstick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Notice

Review each ingredient, check for allergens, and talk to a professional if needed.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, and dairy.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

Nutritional info is for reference and isn’t medical guidance.
  • Kcal: 235
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Proteins: 11 g