Description
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Add a ray of sunshine to your breakfast with these soft and tangy lemon ricotta pancakes topped with powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tbsp sugar
1 cup ricotta
2 eggs (separated)
1/2 cup milk
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Preparation:
Sift together flour, baking soda, and sugar.
Beat egg yolks, ricotta, milk, lemon zest, and juice together.
Mix wet and dry ingredients, then fold in stiffly beaten egg whites.
Cook pancakes on medium heat until golden and fluffy.
#SunnySidePancakes
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Dry Mix: In a medium bowl, sift together the 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. This ensures a light, lump-free batter.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the 2 egg yolks. Add the 1 cup of ricotta, 1/2 cup of milk, and the zest and juice from one lemon. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Whip the Egg Whites: In a separate, clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the 2 egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks. This is crucial for maximum fluffiness.
4. Mix Batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the large bowl of wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix. Then, carefully fold in the stiff egg whites in two additions, preserving as much air as possible.
5. Cook: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of batter. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Dust these pancakes generously with powdered sugar for a classic finish. For a brighter flavor, serve with a dollop of lemon curd or blueberry compote. Maple syrup, fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, and a sprinkle of extra lemon zest make excellent accompaniments. A side of crispy bacon or sausage provides a perfect savory contrast.
How-to Summary
Sift dry ingredients. Whisk yolks with ricotta, milk, and lemon. Separately, whip egg whites to stiff peaks. Fold dry mix into wet mix, then gently fold in egg whites. Cook on a medium-hot griddle until golden on both sides. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s not recommended. The baking soda begins reacting immediately, and the whipped egg whites will deflate, resulting in dense pancakes. For best results, cook immediately after mixing.
What can I substitute for ricotta? Full-fat cottage cheese blended until smooth is the best substitute. Greek yogurt can also work but will make the pancakes slightly tangier and less rich.
Why are my pancakes not fluffy? The most common reason is overmixing the batter after adding the flour, which develops gluten. Another reason could be egg whites that were not beaten stiff enough or were folded in too aggressively.
Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is highly preferred for its bright, vibrant flavor. Bottled juice often has a muted, sometimes metallic taste that won’t deliver the same sunny result.
How do I keep cooked pancakes warm? Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a preheated 200°F (95°C) oven. Avoid stacking them, as steam will make them soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Stir until the flour is just incorporated; lumps are okay.
- Using cold ingredients: Let the ricotta, milk, and eggs come to room temperature for a more even mix and better rise.
- Incorrect pan temperature: Too hot will burn the outside before the inside cooks; too low will make them pale and tough.
- Deflating the egg whites: Fold them in gently with a spatula using a figure-eight motion to maintain air.
- Pressing down on the pancakes while cooking: This squeezes out air and makes them dense.
Conclusion
These Lemon Ricotta Pancakes transform a simple breakfast into a special occasion. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon creates an irresistibly tender and flavorful pancake that’s light yet satisfying. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently achieve perfect, fluffy results. They are a guaranteed way to add a delicious ray of sunshine to your morning.
