Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Featured in: Breads & Sweet Treats

Enjoy tender, fluffy pancakes enhanced with creamy ricotta cheese for a light texture and rich flavor. The batter combines dry and wet ingredients gently to preserve airiness, thanks to whipped egg whites folded in carefully. A touch of vanilla and optional lemon zest brightens the pancakes, which cook to a golden finish on a skillet. Best served warm with toppings like maple syrup or fresh berries, these pancakes offer a satisfying yet delicate morning treat that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 15:18:00 GMT
Golden-brown Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, drizzled with maple syrup, ready to enjoy. Save Pin
Golden-brown Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, drizzled with maple syrup, ready to enjoy. | circuitcuisine.com

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

This recipe has quickly become a weekend favorite at my house, bringing everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients: 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp baking soda, ¼ tsp salt
  • Wet Ingredients: 1 cup (240 g) ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim), ¾ cup (180 ml) milk, 2 large eggs separated, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Zest of 1 lemon (optional), 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter (plus more for cooking)

Instructions

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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.
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Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.
Check price on Amazon
Stack of airy Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, garnished with fresh berries and powdered sugar. Save Pin
Stack of airy Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, garnished with fresh berries and powdered sugar. | circuitcuisine.com

This recipe always brings my family together, filling our home with warmth and delicious aromas.

Notes

Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein. Wine pairing: Try with a lightly sparkling Moscato for brunch.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, and dairy. If using pre-packaged ingredients check labels for hidden allergens.

Close-up of perfectly cooked Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, showing their delightful texture and fluff. Save Pin
Close-up of perfectly cooked Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, showing their delightful texture and fluff. | circuitcuisine.com
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Enjoy these ricotta pancakes fresh off the griddle for the best light and fluffy texture.

Cooking Questions & Answers

How does ricotta affect the pancake texture?

Ricotta adds moisture and richness, creating a tender, fluffy texture that makes pancakes light and creamy.

Why fold in beaten egg whites gently?

Folding in beaten egg whites carefully preserves air bubbles, resulting in a lighter, fluffier pancake.

Can I substitute milk types in the batter?

Yes, whole or part-skim milk works well, but avoid thicker milks to maintain batter consistency.

What is the purpose of lemon zest in the batter?

Lemon zest adds a subtle citrus brightness that complements the creamy ricotta and enhances overall flavor.

How should the pancakes be cooked for best results?

Cook on a medium-heated nonstick skillet, flipping when bubbles appear and edges set, to achieve a golden brown finish.

Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Delicate, airy pancakes enriched with creamy ricotta cheese, ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Duration
30 min
Created by Daniel Murphy


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Info Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll 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 additional for cooking

Directions

Instruction 01

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

Instruction 02

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend ricotta, milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon zest if used, and melted butter until smooth.

Instruction 03

Incorporate Wet and Dry: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients just until combined, leaving some lumps to maintain texture.

Instruction 04

Whip Egg Whites: Using a clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form.

Instruction 05

Fold in Egg Whites: Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the batter, preserving air to ensure fluffiness.

Instruction 06

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

Instruction 07

Cook Pancakes: Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges set, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.

Instruction 08

Serve: Serve immediately with preferred toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Info

Always double-check ingredients for allergens. If unsure, connect with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, and eggs.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

These nutrition facts are for reference only. For medical concerns, consult your doctor.
  • Energy: 235
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Proteins: 11 g