Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Featured in: Breads & Sweet Bakes

These light and fluffy pancakes are elevated by creamy ricotta cheese, providing a tender texture and subtle richness. Combining dry ingredients like flour and leavening agents with ricotta, milk, and vanilla creates a balanced batter. Whipping egg whites separately and folding them in ensures maximum fluffiness. Cooking on a buttered skillet yields golden, soft pancakes perfect for topping with fresh berries or syrup. This quick, easy breakfast offers a delightful start to the day for vegetarians and pancake lovers alike.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 14:49:00 GMT
A stack of golden-brown Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes drizzled with maple syrup looks delicious. Save
A stack of golden-brown Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes drizzled with maple syrup looks delicious. | shiftoven.com

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

I have always enjoyed making these ricotta pancakes on weekend mornings; their fluffiness never fails to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients: 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ 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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Air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate foods quickly for crispy snacks and easy everyday meals.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate foods quickly for crispy snacks and easy everyday meals.
Check price on Amazon
Fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar top these homemade Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes. Save
Fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar top these homemade Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes. | shiftoven.com

This recipe always brings my family together, enjoying cozy mornings and shared laughter over comforting food.

Notes

For extra lemon flavor add more zest or a splash of lemon juice. Substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. 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.

These airy Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, served warm, promise a delightful, fluffy breakfast experience. Save
These airy Light and Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, served warm, promise a delightful, fluffy breakfast experience. | shiftoven.com
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Enjoy these ricotta pancakes fresh and warm for the best taste and texture every time.

Recipe Q&A

What makes these pancakes fluffy?

Whipping the egg whites separately and gently folding them into the batter incorporates air, creating a light and airy texture.

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

Yes, swapping to whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor but may slightly change the texture.

Is ricotta cheese necessary for the texture?

Ricotta contributes moisture and richness, making pancakes tender and creamy, but similar soft cheeses could be substituted.

How do I prevent pancakes from sticking?

Lightly buttering or oiling a nonstick skillet before cooking helps ensure easy flipping and prevents sticking.

Can I add lemon zest to the batter?

Yes, lemon zest adds a fresh brightness that complements the ricotta and enhances the flavor subtly.

Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Airy pancakes enhanced with creamy ricotta, ideal for a special breakfast or brunch.

Time to Prep
15 min
Time to Cook
15 min
Overall Time
30 min
Recipe by Samuel Hill


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Preferences Meat-free

What You 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
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 extra for cooking

Directions

Step 01

Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl until evenly mixed.

Step 02

Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, blend ricotta, milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon zest if desired, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 03

Incorporate Wet into Dry: Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gently until just combined; retain some lumps to preserve texture.

Step 04

Whip Egg Whites: Beat egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form, then carefully fold them into the batter, preserving air for fluffiness.

Step 05

Preheat Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly brush with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 06

Cook Pancakes: Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake onto skillet; cook until bubbles appear and edges set, about 2 minutes, then flip and cook 1 to 2 minutes more until golden.

Step 07

Serve: Serve warm topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar as desired.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Review each item to spot allergens, and consult a health expert if unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, and dairy.
  • Check pre-packaged ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

Nutrition (per serving)

For guidance only. Always check with a medical provider for advice.
  • Energy: 235
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Proteins: 11 g