Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this irresistible recipe for lemon ricotta pancakes with apple cranberry compote. These pancakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor, thanks to creamy ricotta cheese and fresh lemon zest. The warm, spiced apple cranberry topping adds the perfect sweet-tart contrast, turning an ordinary morning into a restaurant-quality experience.
Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch or planning a festive holiday breakfast, this dish brings together comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Pancakes (Serves 4, about 10 pancakes)
- One cup all-purpose flour
- One tablespoon baking powder
- One tablespoon granulated sugar
- One eighth teaspoon salt
- Three quarters cup whole milk
- Half cup ricotta cheese
- Two large eggs
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- One tablespoon lemon zest
- Two tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Butter or oil for cooking
For the Apple Cranberry Compote
- Two apples, peeled and diced
- One cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- One quarter cup maple syrup or honey
- Half teaspoon cinnamon
- One eighth teaspoon nutmeg
- One teaspoon lemon juice
- One tablespoon water
Preparation Time
- Pancake batter prep: 10 minutes
- Compote prep and cook: 15 minutes
- Pancake cooking: 15 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 35 to 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Compote
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine diced apples, cranberries, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and water.
- Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender and the cranberries have burst.
- Remove from heat and set aside. The compote will thicken slightly as it cools.
Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix milk, ricotta, eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir just until combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly coat with butter or oil.
- Pour about one third cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet.
- Cook for two to three minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set.
- Flip and cook for another one to two minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining batter.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Stack the pancakes and spoon warm apple cranberry compote over the top.
- Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2–3 pancakes + compote) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 |
| Protein | 10 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 48 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Sodium | 220 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Ricotta cheese adds protein and richness without heaviness.
- Lemon zest and juice provide natural brightness and vitamin C.
- Cranberries and apples offer fiber, antioxidants, and a burst of flavor.
- This recipe strikes a balance between indulgent and wholesome, ideal for weekend brunch or special mornings.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh lemon zest for maximum flavor; avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Allow the pancake batter to rest for five minutes before cooking to improve fluffiness.
- For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and a plant-based ricotta alternative.
- Double the compote recipe and use leftovers on oatmeal, yogurt, or toast throughout the week.
Variations to Try
- Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed to the batter for a fiber boost.
- Fold fresh blueberries or raspberries into the pancake batter for added fruitiness.
- Use pears instead of apples in the compote for a softer texture and mellow flavor.
- Serve with toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
These lemon ricotta pancakes with apple cranberry compote bring a burst of flavor, texture, and color to your breakfast table. With fluffy layers, tangy citrus notes, and a warm fruit topping, this dish is both comforting and elevated — perfect for making ordinary mornings feel extraordinary.