Best Lemon Ricotta Pancakes Recipe (Light & Fluffy)

These Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor, thanks to creamy ricotta and bright lemon zest. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture pairs perfectly with warm maple syrup or fresh berries. Serve them for brunch, breakfast or even dinner!

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

I am a pancake fanatic - everything from traditional pancakes to super fancy pancakes, I love them all! I haven't used pancake mix in years because my kids are total snobs after I started making them homemade and making them in different varieties.

This recipe is one I've used for years and add fresh blueberries or chocolate chips for Chocolate Chip Pancakes... but my latest obsession is these Lemon Ricotta Pancakes.

And I have to say, these are the best pancakes for spring. The flavors in this lemon ricotta are just so bright and the whole family will love them. If you want the fluffiest pancakes that are just a little fancy, these will hit the spot. 

These fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes are easy enough for everyday pancakes or fancy enough for Sunday morning brunch, a special occasion, or Mother's Day.

Serve with a little butter, some fresh strawberries and a drizzle of maple syrup for the best lemon ricotta pancakes!

Why You'll Love Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

There are so many reasons to love this lemon ricotta pancakes recipe! Here are a few:

Light and Fluffy Texture. Ricotta cheese makes the pancakes incredibly soft and airy, giving them a melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Bright, Fresh Flavor. The combination of lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing citrusy zing that perfectly balances the sweetness.

Rich & Creamy Taste. Ricotta cheese pancakes have a subtle creaminess without making the pancakes too dense.

Perfect for Special Occasions. Whether it’s brunch with friends, a holiday breakfast, or just a weekend treat, these ricotta lemon pancakes feel extra special.

Pairs Well with Toppings. Set up a pancake bar and serve with maple syrup, honey, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.

Delicious Hot or Cold. They taste amazing fresh off the griddle but can also be enjoyed later without losing their flavor. That makes them the perfect pancake!

Protein-Packed & Satisfying. Ricotta adds a boost of protein, making these pancakes more filling than traditional ones.

Favorite Pancake Recipes

• Strawberry Cheesecake Pancakes
• Funfetti Pancakes
• Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
• Easy Strawberry Pancakes 

Tools

• Smal Bowl
• Large Bowl
• Whisk
• Large Skillet
• Non-stick Cooking Spray`
• Large Spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients

This is an easy ricotta pancakes recipe; all of these pancake ingredients can be found at your local grocery store!

Pancake Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Eggs
• Whole milk ricotta cheese
• Buttermilk
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest (optional)

Favorite Toppings

• Maple Syrup
• Blueberry or Strawberry Syrup
• Fresh Fruit (Strawberries, Blueberries or Bananas)
• Powdered Sugar
• Easy Cream Cheese Glaze

Subsitutions

Buttermilk - the buttermilk can be swapped out for whole milk or you can take a cup of regular milk and add lemon juice or vinegar for a buttermilk substitute - see more details in this post.

Lemon Juice- you can use fresh lemon juice or bottled.

Lemon Zest - Dried Lemon Peel is a great substitute for lemon zest. Use ⅓ teaspoon of dried lemon peel for every teaspoon of fresh zest.

Ricotta Cheese - While I recommend not using a substitution, in a pinch, cottage cheese has a similar texture and could work as a substitute for ricotta cheese, though a bit wetter. Blend it up first for a smoother consistency.

How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

This lemon ricotta pancake recipe has subtle lemon flavor and will come together so easily - you can have breakfast ready in under half an hour! 

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl (the large mixing bowl), whisk the wet ingredients: eggs, ricotta, buttermilk, lemon juice, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined (the batter will be thick).
3. Let the pancake batter rest for 10 minutes.
4. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat (or medium-low heat if they are browning too fast) and melt a small amount of butter.
5. Scoop ⅓ cup of batter into the pan for each pancake, spacing each portion about an inch apart. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread into a 4-inch circle. Cook until edges look set and dry, and air bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until the surface of the pancakes is golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.
6. Serve these fluffy ricotta pancakes with a bit of maple syrup and melted butter - Enjoy!

Pancake Toppings

This recipe for lemon ricotta pancakes is great all on it's own but if you add toppings, they get even better!

• Syrup of course - real maple syrup, blueberry syrup, or plain ole pancake syrup - they're all delicious!
• Top with your favorite fruit such as fresh strawberries, blueberries, or bananas.
• Drizzle on lemon curd or a simple sugar glaze for extra sweetness.
• Honey butter is a great addition to these lemon pancakes.
• Make smaller pancakes for kids and add fresh blueberries for a fun breakfast to kick off spring break or summer vacation!

Storage Directions

• Refrigerator. The best way to store these is to stack cooled leftover pancakes with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking and store in a covered container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven. 
• Freezer. To freeze, place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze until solid. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers.

Pro Tips

• Cook the pancakes low and slow so the middle has time to fully cook without burning the outside.
• If you prefer a more even browning like regular pancakes, cook on a hot griddle without butter.
• Keep the pancakes warmed in a 200-degree oven while the rest of the pancakes cook.
• For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest.

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• Viral Tiktok Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream
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• Triple Chocolate Muffins (Viral Olympic Chocolate Muffins)
• Easy Cream Cheese Danish
• Tiktok Viral Crackle Coffee
• The Best Brioche French Toast Recipe