Imagine waking up to a plate of cloud-like pancakes that burst with bright, zesty lemon and creamy ricotta - a breakfast experience that will transform your mornings from ordinary to extraordinary! These Italian-inspired pancakes are not just a meal, but a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your breakfast game. Prepare to be seduced by the perfect balance of tangy citrus, rich cheese, and pillowy-soft texture that will make you forget every boring pancake you've ever tasted.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Butter, for cooking
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, and lemon zest. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to ensure there are no lumps and the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
- Gradually fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ricotta mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pancakes tough.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the liquid and the baking powder to activate.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter to prevent sticking.
- Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pour the batter onto the hot skillet, leaving space between each pancake.
- Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes or until small bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look dry.
- Carefully flip the pancakes and cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and continue cooking the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
- Serve warm with additional lemon zest, a dollop of ricotta, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey if desired.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, milk, and ricotta are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better pancake texture.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold dry and wet ingredients to keep your pancakes light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense pancakes.
- Let the Batter Rest: The 5-minute resting period allows flour to hydrate and baking powder to activate, resulting in more tender pancakes.
- Perfect Skillet Temperature: Medium heat is key - too hot, and you'll burn the outside before the inside cooks; too low, and they'll be pale and gummy.
- Butter Is Your Friend: Use a light, even coating of butter in the pan for golden, crisp edges and delicious flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Experiment with toppings like fresh berries, honey, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to complement the lemon and ricotta flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
