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; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 orange; Pinch of salt; Maple syrup; Fresh berries; Powdered sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

Indulge in the light and fluffy goodness of these Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes, infused with vibrant citrus zest for a refreshing twist.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-14T12:58:16.570Z

These Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes are a beloved breakfast treat that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the bright notes of citrus. Perfect for lazy weekends or special brunch gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and airy texture with a delightful citrus aroma
Rich flavor profile thanks to creamy ricotta
Quick and easy to whip up for any occasion
Perfectly paired with fresh berries and maple syrup

      

The Magic of Ricotta

Ricotta cheese is the star of these pancakes, bringing a unique creaminess that elevates their texture. Unlike traditional pancake recipes, which typically rely on milk or yogurt, ricotta adds an airy fluffiness that makes each bite a delight. This Italian staple is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making your breakfast both satisfying and nutritious.

Using ricotta in your pancake batter results in a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the added citrus zest. The subtle tang of the cheese complements the sweetness of the pancakes, creating a balanced dish that pleases both the palate and the senses. You'll find that these pancakes are not just a breakfast option but a gourmet experience.

Citrus Zest for a Fresh Twist

Incorporating lemon and orange zest into the pancake batter introduces a refreshing brightness that enhances the overall flavor. The natural oils found in the zest provide an aromatic quality, transforming the simple pancake into something extraordinary. Each bite bursts with a hint of citrus, making these pancakes perfect for a sunny weekend brunch or any special morning.

Citrus not only adds flavor but also offers health benefits, including high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants. These nutrients support your immune system and contribute to overall well-being. By infusing your pancakes with citrus zest, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal but also nourishing your body.

Serving Suggestions

These Italian-Style Ricotta Pancakes shine when paired with fresh berries, which provide a juicy contrast to the fluffy texture. Consider using a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries to create a colorful and appealing presentation. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the pancakes, enhancing the dish's flavor profile even further.

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle warm maple syrup over the pancakes before serving. The rich, sweet syrup seeps into the fluffy layers, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant finishing touch, making these pancakes a perfect centerpiece for any breakfast table.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

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

For Serving

Maple syrup
Fresh berries
Powdered sugar (optional)

Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, eggs, and milk until well combined. Stir in the flour, sugar, baking powder, vanilla extract, lemon zest, orange zest, and a pinch of salt until just combined.

Cook the Pancakes

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm, topped with maple syrup and fresh berries. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Italian-style pancakes!

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

To achieve the lightest pancakes, avoid overmixing the batter. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined; this will help maintain the airy texture that ricotta provides. If you notice lumps, don’t worry—this is normal and will create a delightful texture in the final product.

Make sure your skillet is adequately preheated before adding the batter. A hot skillet ensures that the pancakes cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color. If you notice the pancakes browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to allow them to cook through without burning.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover pancakes, storing them is easy! Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or warm them in the microwave for a quick breakfast.

When freezing, consider separating the pancakes with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. This way, you can enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast any day of the week without the hassle of making a fresh batch.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. For a seasonal twist, consider folding in some diced apples or pears, which can add both flavor and texture to your pancakes. You could also incorporate chocolate chips for a decadent treat that both kids and adults will love.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative like almond or cashew cream. Just ensure that the consistency is similar to ricotta, so your pancakes retain that fluffy texture. With these variations, you can make this recipe your own and enjoy it in multiple ways!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone or cottage cheese can be used as substitutes, but the flavor and texture may vary.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.