
Fluffy lemon blueberry ricotta pancakes are the ultimate treat for breakfast lovers who crave something light and bursting with fresh flavor. These pancakes combine creamy ricotta cheese, tangy lemon zest, and juicy blueberries for a brunch you will come back to all season. With ricotta providing cloudlike texture and blueberries popping in every bite, this recipe is always a joyful start to any morning.
I started making these for lazy weekend mornings and now they are our go to brunch order anytime friends visit Everyone is always surprised by how moist and fluffy they turn out
Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese: gives unmatched tenderness and richness Look for good quality whole milk ricotta from the dairy case
- Milk: helps achieve the perfect batter consistency Go for whole milk for best results
- Lemon zest: brings fragrant citrus notes Make sure you zest only the yellow part for no bitterness
- Lemon juice: adds freshness that lifts all the flavors Use freshly squeezed if you can
- Fresh blueberries: dot the pancakes with juicy bursts of tart sweetness Pick plump berries and check for smooth skins
- All purpose flour: creates structure in the pancakes Sift if yours looks clumpy
- Sugar: keeps the pancakes balanced and gently sweet Granulated sugar works best here
- Baking powder: is what gives these pancakes their rise Always check the date for freshness
- Salt: enhances every other taste in the batter Use fine grain for more even mixing
- Eggs: add richness and help hold everything together Choose large eggs for consistency
- Melted butter: brings subtle flavor and helps the pancakes brown Use unsalted and cool it before stirring in
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Wet Mixture:
- Whisk together ricotta cheese milk lemon zest lemon juice and eggs in a large bowl until silky smooth No lumps should remain in the cheese
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl stir together flour sugar baking powder and salt until everything looks evenly mixed
- Build the Batter:
- Add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients a little at a time Stir only until you do not see dry flour Gently fold in the fresh blueberries so they do not burst
- Heat the Pan:
- Place a non stick skillet on medium heat Brush lightly with melted butter for a golden crust and to prevent sticking
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Using a quarter cup measure scoop out the batter onto the hot skillet Space them so they can spread Watch for small bubbles appearing on the surface after about two to three minutes Flip the pancake and let it cook for another two minutes until both sides are golden and cooked through
- Finish and Serve:
- Continue cooking pancakes with the rest of the batter Brushing the pan with more melted butter as needed Serve warm from the skillet with your favorite toppings

Ricotta is hands down my favorite ingredient here It makes every bite taste like sunshine in a cloud Once I brought these to a family reunion and my aunt declared she would never go back to regular pancakes
Storage Tips
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage freeze pancakes flat on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag or container To reheat use the toaster or a few seconds in the microwave Your pancakes will taste almost as good as fresh
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap part skim ricotta if you prefer but know whole milk ricotta gives a creamier crumb You can use raspberries or diced strawberries if blueberries are not available If you need these gluten free use your favorite gluten free flour blend in equal measure Almond milk works in a pinch for regular milk
Serving Suggestions
Pile pancakes high and top with more fresh berries Drizzle with warm maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar For a more decadent brunch set out lemon curd or serve with Greek yogurt on the side Pancakes also shine with a bit of honey or a sprinkle of toasted almonds
Cultural Note
Pancakes made with cheese or citrus have roots in both Italian and American breakfast traditions Ricotta pancakes are inspired by Italian cakes but here they meet all American comfort food touches The lemon blueberry mix is a New England favorite you find in diners every spring

Common Questions
- → Why use ricotta in pancakes?
Ricotta creates a delicate, moist texture and adds subtle richness, making each pancake fluffy yet light.
- → Can frozen blueberries be substituted?
Yes, use frozen blueberries straight from the freezer. Avoid thawing to prevent excess batter color bleed.
- → How do I prevent pancakes from sticking?
Brush your skillet with melted butter or a little oil and ensure it’s properly heated before pouring batter.
- → What toppings pair well with these pancakes?
Fresh blueberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a touch of lemon zest all complement these flavors.
- → Is it possible to make these pancakes gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for similar fluffy results.