Gluten Free Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

These gluten-free lemon ricotta pancakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. A perfect breakfast treat for everyone to enjoy!

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-08T15:30:28.147Z

These Gluten Free Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. The use of ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture, while the fresh lemon zest provides a refreshing zing. Perfect for brunch or a weekend breakfast, these pancakes will please gluten-free eaters and pancake lovers alike!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Fluffy and light texture that melts in your mouth
  • Bright lemon flavor that refreshes your palate
  • Easily adaptable for various toppings like berries or syrup

The Benefits of Ricotta in Pancakes

Ricotta cheese adds a unique creaminess to pancakes, enhancing their texture and moisture. Unlike traditional pancake recipes that rely solely on milk or buttermilk, incorporating ricotta allows for a richer flavor profile. This ingredient not only contributes to a fluffy consistency but also provides a subtle richness that makes each bite delightful.

Moreover, ricotta is a great source of protein, which can help keep you feeling full longer. This makes these gluten-free lemon ricotta pancakes not just a delicious breakfast option, but also a nutritious one. You can enjoy them knowing they offer more than just empty calories.

The Zesty Twist of Lemon

Lemon zest and juice are the stars of this recipe, infusing the pancakes with a bright, refreshing flavor. The acidity of lemon balances the sweetness, creating a harmonious taste that is sure to awaken your taste buds. This citrus addition elevates the pancakes from ordinary to extraordinary, making them perfect for any breakfast table.

In addition to flavor, lemons are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which can boost your immune system. So, while you indulge in these delightful pancakes, you're also giving your body a little extra nourishment. The zesty flavor is especially refreshing during warmer months, making these pancakes a year-round favorite.

Endless Topping Possibilities

One of the best aspects of these gluten-free lemon ricotta pancakes is their versatility in toppings. While they are delicious on their own, you can customize them with a variety of toppings to suit your palate. Fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, add a burst of color and additional sweetness that complements the lemon perfectly.

For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of maple syrup enhances the overall experience, providing a delightful contrast to the zesty flavor. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter option, a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the taste. The possibilities are endless, making each serving a unique experience!

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Pinch of salt

For Serving

  • Maple syrup
  • Fresh berries
  • Powdered sugar (optional)

Mix the ingredients thoroughly for a smooth batter.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious gluten-free pancakes!

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

To achieve the perfect pancake, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before pouring in the batter. A hot skillet helps create a golden brown exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and moist. Consider using a non-stick spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes, so a few lumps are okay. Letting the batter rest for a few minutes can also help improve the texture, resulting in light and airy pancakes.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover pancakes, storing them is simple. Allow the pancakes to cool completely before stacking them with a piece of parchment paper in between each one to prevent sticking. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For longer storage, freeze the pancakes. Layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a toaster or microwave until warmed through, and you'll have a quick breakfast option ready to go.

How to Make These Pancakes Dairy-Free

If you're looking to make these pancakes dairy-free, there are several substitutions you can use. Instead of ricotta cheese, try a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut yogurt, which can provide a similar creaminess. For the milk, any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk works well.

Keep in mind that the flavor might slightly change depending on the alternative chosen, but the pancakes will still be delicious. Just ensure to check the consistency of the batter and adjust as needed, as some dairy-free options may be thinner or thicker than traditional milk.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the ricotta cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy milk.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster.

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Absolutely! Place cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

→ What toppings pair well with these pancakes?

These pancakes are delicious with maple syrup, fresh fruit, yogurt, or whipped cream.

Gluten Free Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

These gluten-free lemon ricotta pancakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. A perfect breakfast treat for everyone to enjoy!

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pancakes

  1. 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  2. 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  3. 1/2 cup milk
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1/4 cup sugar
  6. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  7. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  8. Zest of 1 lemon
  9. Juice of 1 lemon
  10. Pinch of salt

For Serving

  1. Maple syrup
  2. Fresh berries
  3. Powdered sugar (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 02

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 03

Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 7g