Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Featured in: Baking & Sweet Treats

These light and fluffy ricotta pancakes are crafted by gently folding whipped egg whites into a smooth batter enriched with creamy ricotta. The combination gives them a tender, airy texture perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Lemon zest can be added for a hint of brightness, and cooking on a buttered nonstick skillet ensures a golden finish. Serve warm with toppings like fresh berries or maple syrup to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 13:53:00 GMT
Fluffy golden ricotta pancakes, served with berries and syrup; a perfect brunch treat. Save
Fluffy golden ricotta pancakes, served with berries and syrup; a perfect brunch treat. | aeroskillet.com

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

I love making these ricotta pancakes on weekend mornings when I want something a little special for the family.

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

Product image
Easily spray or drizzle oil for roasting vegetables, air frying, sautéing, and dressing salads with controlled coverage.
Check price on Amazon
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.
Product image
Easily spray or drizzle oil for roasting vegetables, air frying, sautéing, and dressing salads with controlled coverage.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Easily spray or drizzle oil for roasting vegetables, air frying, sautéing, and dressing salads with controlled coverage.
Check price on Amazon
Stack of light and airy ricotta pancakes, showcasing their delicate texture and a beautiful golden hue. Save
Stack of light and airy ricotta pancakes, showcasing their delicate texture and a beautiful golden hue. | aeroskillet.com

This recipe always brings smiles during our family brunches and everyone asks for seconds.

Additional Tips

For extra lemon flavor, add more zest or a splash of lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries or drizzle with maple syrup for a delightful meal.

Wine Pairing

Try a lightly sparkling Moscato to complement the delicate flavors of the pancakes.

Freshly made ricotta pancakes, ready to be topped with maple syrup—a classic American breakfast. Save
Freshly made ricotta pancakes, ready to be topped with maple syrup—a classic American breakfast. | aeroskillet.com
Product image
Keeps sponges and brushes organized beside the sink, making dishwashing and post-cooking cleanup faster and neater.
Check price on Amazon

This recipe is a simple yet impressive way to start your day with a delicious homemade breakfast.

Recipe Q&A

What makes these pancakes fluffy?

Whipping the egg whites until soft peaks form and gently folding them into the batter introduces air, creating a light and airy texture.

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

Yes, substituting whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and slight texture difference but maintains the overall fluffiness.

Is ricotta cheese essential for the texture?

Ricotta adds moisture and creaminess, enriching the batter and contributing to the delicate, tender crumb of the pancakes.

How can I add a lemon flavor?

Incorporate lemon zest or a small splash of lemon juice into the batter for a fresh, bright note.

What’s the best way to cook these pancakes evenly?

Use a buttered nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook until bubbles form and edges set, then flip and cook until golden.

What toppings pair well with these pancakes?

Maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar complement their delicate flavor beautifully.

Light Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Delicate, airy pancakes enriched with creamy ricotta, ideal for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

Prep Duration
15 minutes
Time to Cook
15 minutes
Total Duration
30 minutes
Created by Brooke Williams


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Info Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll 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 (whole milk or part-skim)
02 ¾ cup milk
03 2 large eggs, separated
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
06 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

How-To Steps

Step 01

Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl.

Step 02

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend the ricotta, milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon zest if using, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 03

Incorporate Wet into Dry: Fold the ricotta mixture gently into the dry ingredients until just combined; small lumps are acceptable to maintain texture.

Step 04

Beat Egg Whites: Using a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form, then carefully fold them into the batter to retain lightness.

Step 05

Preheat Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush the surface lightly with butter.

Step 06

Cook Pancakes: Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface and edges are set, approximately 2 minutes. Flip and cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes until golden.

Step 07

Serve: Serve the pancakes warm topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar as desired.

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Notice

Check every product used for allergens. If you're unsure, talk to a healthcare provider.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, and eggs

Nutrition Details (for each serving)

Nutritional values are general and not a substitute for professional medical counsel.
  • Energy: 235
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Proteins: 11 g