Prepare to delight your taste buds with these mouthwatering Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes! These pancakes are incredibly light, fluffy, and bursting with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch or treating yourself to a special breakfast, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the skillet
- Maple syrup and fresh berries for serving
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the pancake batter until incorporated.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed.
- Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup and fresh berries on top.
Variations:
- Add lemon zest or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips or blueberries onto the pancakes just after pouring the batter onto the skillet.
- For a savory option, omit the sugar and vanilla extract, and add chopped herbs like chives or parsley to the batter. Serve with smoked salmon and sour cream.
Serving Tips:
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra indulgent treat.
- Serve alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory-sweet contrast.
- Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice for a complete breakfast experience.
Storage Tips:
- These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the toaster or microwave before serving.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information:
- Ricotta cheese adds protein and calcium to these pancakes, making them a satisfying and nutritious breakfast option.
- Nutritional information per serving
FAQs:
Q: Can I freeze leftover pancakes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. Reheat in the toaster or microwave as needed.
Q: Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.