Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote are a delightful twist on your traditional pancake breakfast. These pancakes are incredibly fluffy, with a hint of tang from the lemon and the creaminess of ricotta that makes each bite feel luxurious. Topped with a warm, luscious berry compote, they make for a breakfast that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to whip up. Each pancake is golden brown and airy, with a refreshing zesty flavor that dances on your tongue, reminding you why pancake breakfasts hold such a special place in our hearts.
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I still remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe in a cozy cafe tucked away in a quaint neighborhood. The delightful aroma wafting from the griddle caught my attention, and once I took that first bite, I was hooked! The lemony freshness mixed with the creamy ricotta reminded me of sunshiny mornings and family gatherings. Trust me, once you try these Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote at your brunch or breakfast table, they’ll likely become your new go-to recipe. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a lazy weekend morning.
- Irresistible Flavor: A blend of creamy ricotta and bright lemon that elevates your breakfast experience.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Beautifully golden and fluffy pancakes topped with vibrant berries make for an Instagram-worthy dish.
- Flexible Serving: Great for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack anytime during the day.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable with gluten-free flour or vegan substitutes for ricotta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our pancakes, providing the right structure and fluffiness. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if desired.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness enhances the flavor; brown sugar can be used for a deeper taste.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to ensure the batter rises properly.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. Always use eggs at room temperature for the best texture.
- 1 and 1/2 cups whole milk: Moistens the batter; you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- 1 cup full-fat ricotta cheese: Provides creaminess and a rich texture, making these pancakes wonderfully indulgent.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor. Look for pure extract rather than imitation for the best taste.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Brightens the pancakes with zestiness; freshly squeezed is preferred for better flavor.
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest: Enhances the lemony flavor and aroma; it’s worth using fresh lemon.
- Maple syrup or fresh whipped cream, for serving: Both provide that perfect sweet finish to your pancakes.
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk together until well-blended.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, lightly beat 2 large eggs. Add in 1 and 1/2 cups whole milk, 1 cup full-fat ricotta cheese, and 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid over-mixing as it can lead to dense pancakes.
Add Lemon Flavor: Carefully fold in 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice and 2 teaspoons lemon zest. The batter should still be slightly lumpy; that’s perfectly fine.
Cook the Pancakes: Heat a buttered pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot surface. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until small bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve Immediately: Stack pancakes warm with maple syrup or fresh whipped cream, and drizzle with the berry compote for an added fruity touch.
Warm Berry Compote (Optional)
To make this tasty topping, simply simmer your favorite berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries) in a saucepan with a bit of sugar and a splash of lemon juice until they burst and thicken slightly—about 10 minutes. Serve warm over the pancakes for a delightful finish!
Storing & Reheating
Once you’ve savored your Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two hours. For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to three days. You can also freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or warm them in a microwave for about 30 seconds. The texture will be slightly different, but a light drizzle of syrup or a dollop of whipped cream will refresh them beautifully!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overmixing the batter! It’s okay if it’s a little lumpy; this helps keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps to create a softer pancake.
- If your pancakes seem too thick, add a touch more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- To ensure even cooking, monitor the heat of your griddle or pan and adjust as necessary.
- Leftovers are perfect for freezing—just reheat directly from the freezer for a quick breakfast fix later!
How wonderful it is to have a recipe like this tucked away in your culinary repertoire! There’s something so special about indulging in warm, fluffy pancakes that speak of leisurely weekend mornings and cozy moments with family and friends. The Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote not only combine comforting flavors but also introduce a refreshing brightness that elevates your breakfast. Don’t hesitate to make these your own; add a sprinkle of chocolate chips or even some chopped nuts to the batter if you wish! Prepare to embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy each delicious bite.

Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely! While ricotta is ideal for its creaminess, you can substitute with mascarpone for an even richer flavor or cottage cheese for a lighter option. Just be sure to blend it well so the texture remains smooth.
How do I know when the pancakes are fully cooked?
Look for small bubbles forming on the surface of the pancakes; this indicates they are ready to flip. After flipping, they should be golden brown within 1-2 minutes. Always trust your instincts and perform the “toothpick test” if you’re unsure—pancakes should come out clean.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken in the fridge.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This helps maintain similar textures and flavors without gluten, making it accessible for everyone!
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📖 Recipe Card

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote
- Prep Time: N/A
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Griddled
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are fluffy and bursting with lemon flavor, making for a delightful breakfast. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these pancakes are a perfect choice for a cozy morning or brunch with friends. Serve them warm with maple syrup or fresh whipped cream for an irresistible treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 and 1/2 cups (340ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (227g) full-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (57ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoon lemon zest
- maple syrup or fresh whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl; whisk to mix.
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs using a whisk.
- Stir in the milk, ricotta, and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Add the lemon juice and zest, mixing until evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
- Scoop the batter in 1/3 cup portions onto a preheated and buttered pan or griddle, leaving space between them. Cook for about 3 minutes until small bubbles appear on top, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes more. Repeat with remaining batter.
- Serve pancakes warm with maple syrup or whipped cream and enjoy!
Notes
To freeze the pancakes, allow them to cool completely and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for easy reheating.
For extra flavor, try adding blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
