Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote are the kind of breakfast indulgence that makes mornings special. With a fluffy, creamy texture and a bright burst of lemon flavor, these pancakes don’t just look delightful; they taste like sunshine on a plate. The use of ricotta elevates the usual pancake experience, offering a rich mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with a sweet, tangy berry compote. Each bite brings a comforting warmth, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or a fancy brunch with friends and family.
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I first discovered this recipe during a brunch gathering with friends. As we shared our favorite breakfast dishes, someone brought out a stack of these Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, topped with a decadent berry sauce. The combination was simply heavenly. Since then, I’ve made them countless times, and they never disappoint. Impress your loved ones with this crowd-pleaser that manages to be both easy to whip up and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: You can whip up this delicious breakfast in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy mornings or a slow weekend!
- Irresistible Flavor: The zesty lemon complements the creamy ricotta, creating flavors that are both refreshing and indulgent.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Imagine a plate stacked high with golden pancakes, drizzled with vibrant berry compote; it’s a feast for the eyes!
- Flexible Serving: Great for brunch, breakfast-for-dinner, or even as a sweet snack.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free flour, still providing the same delightful taste and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups all-purpose flour (240g): A standard base for fluffy pancakes. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for added nutrition or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g): Adds just the right sweetness. If you prefer, you can reduce the amount or substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: This is your leavening agent, giving the pancakes a light, airy texture.
3/4 teaspoon baking powder: Works in tandem with baking soda, ensuring the pancakes rise beautifully.
3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors; don’t skip this!
2 large eggs (room temperature): Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness. Room temperature eggs mix more easily than cold ones.
1 and 1/2 cups whole milk (340ml): Needed for moisture and a creamy texture. You can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
1 cup full-fat ricotta cheese (227g): The star of the show! This cheese creates a moist pancake that’s rich without being overly heavy.
1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor. Always opt for pure vanilla over imitation for the best results.
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (57ml): Brightens the pancakes with a fresh zing. Make sure to use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.
2 teaspoons lemon zest: The aromatic oils in the zest elevate the lemon flavor. Use a microplane for finely grating.
Maple syrup or fresh whipped cream: For serving. Both options complement the pancakes perfectly, adding sweetness and creaminess.
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote

Whisk the 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 well until uniformly mixed.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs lightly with a whisk. 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 everything is well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix, as this will make your pancakes tough.
Add the Flavors: Fold in 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice and 2 teaspoons lemon zest. Again, stir gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
Cook the Pancakes: Heat a pan or griddle over medium heat and lightly butter it. Pour batter by 1/3 cupfuls onto the pan, cooking only a few at a time. Cook for about 3 minutes or until small bubbles form on top before flipping them. Cook the second side until golden brown for about 1-2 minutes.
Serve Warm: Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve them warm, drizzled with maple syrup or topped with fresh whipped cream.
Storing & Reheating
For storing leftovers, let the pancakes cool completely before placing them in a container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. For longer storage, place them in a fridge for up to 3 days. When freezing, stack the pancakes with parchment paper between them and seal in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster or microwave until warm, but be aware that the texture might change slightly; consider adding a drizzle of syrup to refresh them.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to help the batter combine smoothly.
- When cooking the pancakes, don’t crowd the pan; give them space to rise and brown evenly.
- If your ricotta is too watery, drain it using a fine mesh sieve before mixing it into the batter for a better texture.
- Experiment with the compote! You can use any mix of berries—strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a delightful contrast with the lemon flavor.
These Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote are not just a treat to eat; they’re a joy to make. The combination of bright lemon and creamy ricotta will transform your breakfast routine. Whether at a gathering or a simple family breakfast, they bring smiles and satisfaction to every plate. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to serve a feast that everyone will love!

Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for these pancakes?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Just watch the liquid adjustments, as different flours absorb moisture differently.
How can I make the pancakes fluffier?
For fluffier pancakes, make sure you’re not overmixing the batter; lumps are okay! Additionally, ensuring that your baking soda and baking powder are fresh will help maximize fluffiness.
What berries should I use for the compote?
You can use any berries you love or have on hand. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries all make excellent choices. Mix and match for a colorful, tasty compote!
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
While it’s best to make the batter fresh, you can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just give it a gentle stir in the morning before cooking, and add a little extra milk if it has thickened too much.
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📖 Recipe Card

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 pancakes 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: American
Description
Treat yourself to Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Warm Berry Compote. This delightful dish features a blend of rich ricotta, zesty lemon, and homemade compote, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch choice for those who appreciate flavorful homemade meals.
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
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, and mix well.
- In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs.
- Add the milk, ricotta, and vanilla to the eggs and mix until combined.
- Gradually fold this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Fold in the lemon juice and zest without overmixing the batter.
- Pour 1/3 cup of the batter onto a heated and buttered pan or griddle, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.
- Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup or whipped cream.
Notes
For a lighter pancake, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
These pancakes can be frozen. To freeze, lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer-safe container after they are frozen solid.
To enhance flavor, consider serving with a side of mixed berries or a berry compote.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
