Go Back
Fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes stacked on a white plate, drizzled with syrup and garnished with lemon slices.

Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

These lemon ricotta pancakes are the perfect balance of fluffy texture and bright lemon flavor. An easy, healthy, and versatile recipe that’s sure to become your favorite breakfast!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 13 pancakes

Equipment

  • Electric griddle or non-stick skillet
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (214g) scoop and level to measure
  • 3 1/2 Tbsp granulated sugar (46g)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup milk (236ml)
  • 3/4 cup ricotta (180g) low-fat or whole
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 Tbsp lemon zest depending on how lemony you want them
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60ml)
  • 1 Tbsp butter (14g) melted

Instructions
 

  • Preheat an electric griddle to moderately-high heat (or use a non-stick skillet set over medium heat).
  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for 20 seconds to evenly distribute the leaveners.
  • In a separate large mixing bowl, combine milk, ricotta, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and combined.
  • Stir in melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The mixture may curdle slightly due to the lemon juice—this is normal.
  • Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; some small lumps are fine.
  • Lightly grease the griddle or skillet with butter or cooking spray. Pour 1/3 cup of batter per pancake, spreading slightly if needed. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  • Repeat with remaining batter, and adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. Serve warm with powdered sugar and your favorite syrup, if desired.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. For a dairy-free option, swap the milk and ricotta for plant-based alternatives. Batter may curdle slightly due to lemon juice—this is normal.