Simple Ricotta Pancakes Recipe: Fluffy Breakfast Joy in Minutes

Fluffy ricotta pancakes reimagine ordinary breakfast routines into culinary celebrations of morning magic.

These delicate, cloud-like delights emerge from a clever fusion of traditional pancake techniques and creamy Italian cheese inspiration.

ricotta introduces an unexpected lightness and subtle richness that elevates the classic breakfast staple beyond basic expectations.

Each bite promises a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience that challenges everything you know about morning griddle classics.

Soft, pillowy textures create a sophisticated breakfast canvas that speaks to both comfort and elegance.

Minimal ingredients combine to produce extraordinary results, proving that simple recipes can yield remarkable gastronomic experiences.

Weekend brunch enthusiasts and home cooks will adore this effortless approach to creating restaurant-quality breakfast magic.

What Goes Into Ricotta Pancakes

Main Ingredients:

• Ricotta Cheese: Fresh, creamy cheese that provides the base and rich texture for the pancakes.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure to the pancake mixture.

• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the pancakes during cooking.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.

• All-Purpose Flour, Baking Powder: Provide structure, help pancakes rise, and create a light, fluffy texture.

Cooking Ingredients:

• Oil: Helps prevent sticking and creates a golden-brown exterior on the pancakes.

Serving Accompaniments:

• Sour Cream, Jam: Classic, tangy and sweet condiments that complement the rich pancakes.

How to Make Soft Ricotta Pancakes at Home

Step 1: Mix Cheese and Egg

Combine ricotta cheese and egg in a mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and fully blended. Add vanilla extract if desired.

Step 2: Add Sugar

Stir in granulated sugar, mixing until completely incorporated and the mixture becomes slightly lighter in texture.

Step 3: Prepare Pancake Batter

Gently fold in flour and baking powder. Mix minimally to avoid overworking the batter, creating a soft and slightly lumpy consistency.

Step 4: Shape Pancake Patties

Prepare a small plate with extra flour. Using a tablespoon or ice cream scoop, drop batter onto the flour. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a 1/2 inch thick patty.

Step 5: Cook Pancakes

Heat a skillet over low-medium heat. Add a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place pancake patties in the skillet, leaving space between each.

Tips for Pancakes with Rich, Creamy Texture

• Drain Excess Moisture: Pat ricotta cheese with paper towels to remove extra liquid, ensuring a crisp pancake exterior.
• Gentle Mixing Technique: Stir ingredients minimally to maintain a light, fluffy texture without developing tough gluten.
• Flour Coating Trick: Use a thin, even flour layer to create a delicate golden-brown crust that enhances the pancake's crispiness.
• Temperature Control: Keep skillet at low-medium heat to prevent burning and allow even, consistent browning on both sides.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare pancake batter in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, maintaining optimal consistency.

Store and Reheat Pancakes Without Drying

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooled ricotta pancakes in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers. Pancakes will stay fresh for 3-4 days when refrigerated at 40°F or below.
• Freezing Method: Wrap individual pancakes in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pancakes maintain quality for up to 2 months when sealed properly.
• Reheating Technique: Warm refrigerated pancakes in a skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes per side. Alternatively, microwave for 20-30 seconds until heated through, adding a touch of butter to restore moisture and prevent dryness.

Best Toppings for Ricotta Pancakes

• Pair with Sweet Berry Compote: Whip up a quick strawberry or raspberry compote to drizzle over these rich ricotta pancakes. The bright, tangy fruit sauce cuts through the creamy cheese and adds a fresh burst of flavor.
• Match with Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Prosecco or Moscato d'Asti complements the delicate sweetness of the pancakes. The light, bubbly wine creates a delightful morning brunch experience.
• Combine with Strong Espresso: A shot of rich, bold espresso balances the creamy pancakes perfectly. The coffee's intense flavor contrasts wonderfully with the mild, smooth texture of the ricotta, creating a classic breakfast pairing.
• Serve with Honey and Nuts: Drizzle some local wildflower honey over the pancakes and sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios for added crunch. This combination brings a delightful nutty sweetness that elevates the entire dish.

Flavored Pancake Ideas You’ll Love

• Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the batter for an aromatic herbal touch that elevates the pancakes' flavor profile.
• Citrus Zest Celebration: Add lemon or orange zest to the mixture for a bright, tangy note that complements the creamy ricotta base and adds a refreshing dimension.
• Berry Bliss Edition: Gently fold in fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries into the batter to create bursts of fruity sweetness in every bite.
• Chocolate Chip Dream: Sprinkle mini dark chocolate chips throughout the mixture for a decadent variation that transforms the classic ricotta pancakes into a more indulgent treat.

Why Ricotta Pancakes Taste Extra Fluffy

• Creamy Indulgence: These ricotta pancakes offer a luxurious, velvety texture that melts in your mouth, creating a rich and decadent breakfast experience unlike traditional pancakes.
• Quick and Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal mixing, this recipe allows even novice cooks to whip up a delightful meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for lazy weekend mornings or spontaneous breakfast cravings.
• Versatile Serving Options: The pancakes' mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with sour cream and jam, allowing you to customize your breakfast with different toppings and create a unique meal every time.

Ricotta Pancakes Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Silky Italian ricotta pancakes elevate breakfast with creamy Mediterranean charm. Delicate, fluffy layers melt on your palate, promising a luxurious morning indulgence that transports taste buds straight to a sunny Italian kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 32 ounces (900 grams) whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

Sweeteners:

• ½ – ¾ cup granulated sugar

Leavening and Flavoring Agents:

• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Cooking Oil:

• Oil for frying (preferably olive oil)

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Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk of ricotta cheese with one large egg until the mixture becomes uniformly smooth and creamy.
2. Incorporate of pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile of the base mixture.
3. Gradually fold in 1/2 to of granulated sugar, stirring until completely integrated and the texture remains consistent.
4. Gently sift 1 of all-purpose flour and of baking powder into the wet ingredients, using delicate folding motions to prevent overmixing.
5. Prepare a shallow dish with additional all-purpose flour for coating the pancakes.
6. Using a tablespoon or medium-sized ice cream scoop, portion out the ricotta mixture and roll each portion in the flour, carefully flattening into round patties approximately 1/2 inch (1.3 centimeters) thick.
7. Warm a skillet over low-medium heat and add of neutral cooking oil, ensuring even distribution across the surface.
8. Carefully place the floured ricotta patties into the heated skillet, leaving adequate space between each pancake to prevent overcrowding.
9. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, watching for a golden-brown color and crisp exterior.
10. Transfer the cooked pancakes to a serving plate and accompany with a dollop of sour cream and a selection of your preferred fruit preserves.

Notes

• These pancakes are incredibly soft and creamy, thanks to the rich ricotta cheese base.
• Minimal mixing is key to keeping the texture light and tender, preventing tough and dense pancakes.
• Using low-medium heat ensures even cooking and prevents burning, allowing a golden-brown exterior.
• Coating pancake mixture in flour helps create a delicate crispy crust and prevents sticking during cooking.
• The vanilla extract adds a subtle sweet aroma that beautifully complements the tangy ricotta cheese.
• Serving with sour cream and jam provides a delightful contrast of creamy, sweet, and slightly tart flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg