Lemon Poppyseed Ricotta Pancakes

Name: Lemon Poppyseed Ricotta Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons poppy seeds; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Maple syrup; Fresh berries; Powdered sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

These light and fluffy Lemon Poppyseed Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a hint of crunch from the poppy seeds.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-08T17:13:28.897Z

Indulge in a stack of these delicious Lemon Poppyseed Ricotta Pancakes, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. The ricotta adds a creamy texture while the lemon zest and poppy seeds bring a refreshing flavor that will brighten your morning.

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Light and fluffy texture with a rich citrus flavor
The addition of ricotta makes them irresistibly creamy
Perfectly paired with maple syrup or fresh fruit
Great for brunch gatherings or a cozy breakfast at home

      

The Perfect Weekend Treat

Start your weekend off right with these Lemon Poppyseed Ricotta Pancakes. They’re not just a breakfast item; they’re a celebration on a plate! The combination of ricotta and poppy seeds adds a unique texture and flavor that sets them apart from your typical pancake. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, these pancakes are sure to impress everyone at the breakfast table.

Imagine the aroma of fresh lemon wafting through your kitchen as you prepare these delightful pancakes. The zesty lemon combined with the creamy ricotta creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup, they are a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Healthier Indulgence

Ricotta cheese isn’t just for lasagna; it’s a fantastic ingredient to incorporate into breakfast dishes too! Packed with protein and calcium, ricotta makes these pancakes a healthier choice compared to traditional recipes that rely solely on flour and eggs. The addition of poppy seeds introduces a wealth of nutrients, including healthy fats and fiber, making each bite a nourishing experience.

These pancakes can help kickstart your day with energy. The balance of carbohydrates from the flour and natural sugars from the lemon and berries provides a sustained energy release, perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Enjoying a stack of these pancakes means you can indulge without the guilt!

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about these Lemon Poppyseed Ricotta Pancakes is their versatility. While the recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add in a handful of blueberries or substitute the lemon zest for orange for a different citrus twist. The possibilities are endless, making them a staple recipe to keep in your collection.

These pancakes are also perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and freeze them for quick breakfasts throughout the week. Just reheat in the toaster or microwave, and you’ll have a tasty, homemade meal ready in minutes. Pair them with yogurt or a smoothie for a balanced start to your day!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious pancakes:

For the Pancakes

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving

Maple syrup
Fresh berries
Powdered sugar (optional)

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand for a delightful breakfast experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lemon Poppyseed Ricotta Pancakes:

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Cook Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious pancakes with your favorite toppings!

Tips for the Best Pancakes

To achieve the fluffiest pancakes, be careful not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are fine and will help create that airy texture we all love. Additionally, letting the batter rest for about 10 minutes can improve the final outcome, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Make sure your skillet is at the right temperature. A medium heat is ideal; if it's too hot, the pancakes may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. A drop of water should sizzle when the skillet is ready, ensuring a perfect cooking environment.

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes shine on their own, but pairing them with fresh berries elevates the dish to another level. Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can add a burst of flavor and a pop of color, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.

For a touch of elegance, dust the pancakes with powdered sugar before serving. It not only makes them look sophisticated but also adds a sweet contrast to the tartness of the lemon. Drizzle with maple syrup for a classic touch or try flavored syrups like berry or vanilla for a unique twist.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to two months in the freezer, making them a convenient breakfast option.

To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave. If using the microwave, place a damp paper towel over the pancakes to keep them moist. In just a few minutes, you can enjoy warm, fluffy pancakes without the hassle of cooking from scratch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

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

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Absolutely! Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.