This lemon ricotta pancakes recipe folds whipped egg whites into a ricotta and lemon batter for extra-fluffy pancakes, ready in 25 minutes with a simple lemon syrup on top. These pancakes are ridiculously fluffy because of the separated egg whites, and the ricotta keeps them tender and slightly custardy in the center. The lemon hits you with brightness and the syrup is basically just melted butter and lemon juice, which turns out to be the best thing to pour on a pancake ever. Round out the brunch spread with our strawberry lemon refresher.
Quick answer: Fluffy, tender pancakes made with ricotta cheese and bright lemon juice. Takes 25 minutes total, makes 8-10 pancakes, and stays tender even if they sit for a few minutes.
Make the syrup first: melt butter in a small saucepan, add lemon juice, honey, and zest. Simmer gently for 2 minutes and keep warm. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk ricotta, egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. Fold in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
In a separate bowl, beat egg whites to stiff peaks using an electric mixer.
Gently fold the egg whites into the ricotta mixture in two batches, being careful not to deflate the whites. Some streaks are okay.
Heat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly butter it. Scoop batter in 1/4-cup portions onto the griddle, leaving space between them. Cook 2-3 minutes until the bottom is light golden, then flip carefully and cook another 2 minutes until done.
Transfer to a plate and serve warm with lemon syrup and a pat of butter.
Don't make it more than 15 minutes ahead or the egg whites will lose their lift. You can separate the eggs and make the ricotta mixture up to 2 hours ahead, then beat the whites and fold them in just before cooking.
You can do it by hand with a whisk, but it'll take longer and you need a bit of elbow grease. A regular bowl and whisk works fine, just keep whisking until stiff peaks form.
Yes, Greek yogurt works as a substitute, though the pancakes will be slightly tangier and a touch denser. Use the same amount and strain it first if it's very liquid.
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