Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups (340ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (227g) full-fat ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (57ml) fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• Maple syrup or fresh whipped cream, for serving
• Optional additions:
  • 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup fresh blueberries or raspberries

Instructions:

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, lightly beat eggs with a whisk. Add milk, ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and optional melted butter. Whisk until combined.
3. Combine wet and dry: Stir wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
4. Add lemon: Gently fold in lemon juice and zest, stirring until evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Cook pancakes: Pour batter in 1/3 cupfuls onto a buttered hot pan or griddle. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until small bubbles form on top. Flip and cook on the second side until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Add optional ingredients: If using blueberries or raspberries, add them to the batter on the griddle after pouring, before flipping.
7. Serve: Serve warm pancakes with maple syrup or whipped cream.

Notes:

• To freeze: Place cooled pancakes between layers of waxed paper, then in a freezer-safe plastic bag. Squeeze out excess air and seal. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking pan, cover with foil, and heat for 6-8 minutes, or until warm. You can also microwave 3-4 pancakes at a time for about 40 seconds, or until heated through.
• Optional additions: Add melted butter to the wet ingredients for richer pancakes. Add nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spice flavor. Add blueberries or raspberries while cooking for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Ricotta Pancakes!