Description
Fluffy, moist, and packed with creamy ricotta goodness, Vanilla Ricotta Pancakes are the ultimate breakfast indulgence. Ricotta cheese gives these pancakes a luxurious texture, keeping them light while enhancing their rich, creamy flavor. Whether you’re looking for a sweet morning treat or a protein-packed breakfast, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or even a savory twist for an unforgettable meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably full-fat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk or buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or neutral oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the ricotta cheese, egg yolks, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Beat the Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This step helps make the pancakes extra fluffy.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Then, carefully fold in the beaten egg whites to keep the batter light and airy.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter sit for 5-10 minutes to hydrate the flour and improve texture.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2-3 minutes). Flip gently and cook for another 2 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the pancakes to a plate and enjoy with maple syrup, fresh fruit, honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
- For Extra Fluffiness: Beat the egg whites separately and fold them into the batter.
- To Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Sweet vs. Savory: These pancakes taste amazing with both sweet toppings (syrup, honey, fruit) and savory toppings (smoked salmon, chives, ricotta spread).
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 servings
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 10g