Ricotta Pancakes with Lemon Curd and Pistachios​

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

Delight in the fluffy, rich texture of these Ricotta Pancakes, topped with zesty lemon curd and crunchy pistachios. A perfect breakfast treat!

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-14T12:42:17.057Z

These Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on classic pancakes, adding a creamy richness that elevates your breakfast experience. Topped with homemade lemon curd and crunchy pistachios, each bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Fluffy texture from the ricotta cheese
  • Bright and tangy lemon curd that complements the sweetness
  • Crunchy pistachios add a delightful contrast
  • Quick and easy to make for any breakfast occasion

The Perfect Weekend Breakfast

Start your weekend off right with these delightful Ricotta Pancakes. Their fluffy texture and rich flavor make them an indulgent choice for brunch. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet morning at home, these pancakes are sure to impress. Paired with the zesty homemade lemon curd and crunchy pistachios, they create a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.

Not only are these pancakes delicious, but they are also quick to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet breakfast in no time. The lemon curd can be made ahead of time, allowing you to maximize your morning relaxation. Plus, they can be easily customized with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile choice for any palate.

Health Benefits of Ricotta

Ricotta cheese is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. It is a great source of protein, making these pancakes a satisfying option that can keep you full longer. Additionally, ricotta contains calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Incorporating ricotta into your breakfast can also provide a boost of energy to kickstart your day.

Furthermore, ricotta is lower in fat compared to many other cheeses, making it a healthier choice for those watching their dietary intake. By using ricotta in these pancakes, you create a dish that feels indulgent without the guilt. It's a perfect way to enjoy a treat while still being mindful of your health.

Customizing Your Pancakes

One of the best aspects of these Ricotta Pancakes is their versatility. While the lemon curd and pistachios are a fantastic combination, feel free to experiment with different toppings. Fresh berries, such as blueberries or strawberries, can add a burst of freshness, while a drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the sweetness. For a more decadent twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or serving with whipped cream.

You can also adjust the flavor profile by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra warmth. This adaptability allows you to tailor the pancakes to your family's preferences or seasonal ingredients, making them a year-round favorite. No matter how you choose to customize, these pancakes are sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Lemon Curd

  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Zest of 1 lemon

For Topping

  • Chopped pistachios
  • Powdered sugar (optional)

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Make the Lemon Curd

In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and lemon zest. Allow to cool.

Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually fold in flour and baking powder until just combined.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until golden brown.

Repeat with remaining batter.

Serve

Stack pancakes on a plate, top with lemon curd, and sprinkle with chopped pistachios. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Ricotta Pancakes with Lemon Curd and Pistachios!

Tips for the Best Pancakes

To achieve the fluffiest pancakes, be sure not to overmix the batter. Gently folding in the flour and baking powder will keep the air bubbles intact, resulting in a light texture. Additionally, let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to hydrate fully and will improve the overall structure of the pancakes.

Always ensure your skillet is preheated to the right temperature. A medium heat is ideal for cooking pancakes evenly. If the heat is too high, the outsides may burn while the insides remain undercooked. A simple test is to sprinkle a few drops of water onto the skillet; if they dance and evaporate, the skillet is ready for cooking.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover pancakes, storing them is easy. Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast treat.

The lemon curd can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s a great addition to other breakfast items as well, such as toast or yogurt, making it a versatile component in your kitchen. Enjoying leftovers can save time on busy mornings, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the flavors of Ricotta Pancakes, consider pairing them with a refreshing beverage. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a light herbal tea can enhance the breakfast experience. For those who enjoy coffee, a smooth cappuccino or a latte can provide the perfect pick-me-up alongside your pancakes.

If you're hosting a brunch, you might want to serve these pancakes alongside savory dishes like scrambled eggs or smoked salmon. The combination of sweet and savory flavors can make for an exciting and well-rounded meal that caters to a variety of tastes. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your brunch menu!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the lemon curd in advance?

Yes, lemon curd can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use a substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone cheese can be used as a substitute for a richer flavor.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze pancakes. Place parchment paper between each pancake and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

Ricotta Pancakes with Lemon Curd and Pistachios​

Delight in the fluffy, rich texture of these Ricotta Pancakes, topped with zesty lemon curd and crunchy pistachios. A perfect breakfast treat!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Sweet Bakes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pancakes

  1. 1 cup ricotta cheese
  2. 2 large eggs
  3. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  4. 1/4 cup milk
  5. 2 tablespoons sugar
  6. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  7. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  8. Pinch of salt

For the Lemon Curd

  1. 1/2 cup lemon juice
  2. 1/2 cup sugar
  3. 3 large eggs
  4. 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  5. Zest of 1 lemon

For Topping

  1. Chopped pistachios
  2. Powdered sugar (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and lemon zest. Allow to cool.

Step 02

In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually fold in flour and baking powder until just combined.

Step 03

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.

Step 04

Stack pancakes on a plate, top with lemon curd, and sprinkle with chopped pistachios. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 10g