Fluffy Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes

Name: Fluffy Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; Zest of 1 orange; Butter or oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

Savor the delightful combination of tangy cranberries and zesty oranges in these fluffy ricotta pancakes. Perfect for breakfast or brunch!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-06T18:25:54.520Z

These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. The addition of ricotta cheese gives them a light and airy texture, while the cranberries and orange zest bring a burst of flavor that will brighten your morning.

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect balance of tart cranberries and sweet orange zest
Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy mornings
A unique twist on classic pancakes that everyone will adore

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

When it comes to breakfast, few things can rival the joy of a stack of pancakes. These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes take this classic dish to a new level. Their light and airy texture combined with the refreshing burst of cranberries and the bright notes of orange zest make them a standout choice. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet morning at home, these pancakes will impress anyone who takes a bite.

What sets these pancakes apart is the addition of ricotta cheese. Not only does it contribute to the fluffiness, but it also adds a rich creaminess that enhances the overall flavor profile. When paired with the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of orange, the result is a deliciously balanced pancake that’s sure to become a favorite.

A Versatile Recipe

One of the best aspects of these pancakes is their versatility. While the cranberry and orange combination is delightful, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Feel free to swap in other fruits like blueberries or strawberries, or even add nuts for an extra crunch. This adaptability makes these pancakes a fantastic choice for any season or occasion.

Additionally, these pancakes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply reheat them in a toaster or microwave, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in minutes. This makes them an excellent option for busy mornings when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your pancake experience, consider serving these Fluffy Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes with a variety of toppings. Maple syrup is a classic choice, but you can also drizzle honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness. For a more indulgent treat, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt. Top with additional fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of orange zest for a beautiful presentation.

For those who prefer a savory twist, try adding a side of crispy bacon or sausage. The salty flavors will perfectly complement the sweet and tart notes of the pancakes, creating a balanced meal that satisfies all cravings.

Ingredients

Pancake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
Zest of 1 orange
Butter or oil for cooking

Mix all the ingredients well for the best pancake batter.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, and orange zest. Mix until smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped cranberries.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.

Repeat with the remaining batter.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup, additional cranberries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy your fluffy cranberry orange ricotta pancakes!

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover pancakes, storing them is easy. Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the toaster or microwave.

These pancakes maintain their flavor and texture well, making them a great make-ahead option. This means you can enjoy a delicious breakfast without the hassle of cooking from scratch every morning.

Nutritional Benefits

These pancakes not only taste great but also offer some nutritional benefits. Ricotta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. The addition of fresh cranberries provides antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting your immune system.

Oranges, rich in fiber and vitamin C, are another health boost in this recipe. Together, these ingredients make for a wholesome breakfast that can help keep you energized throughout the day.

Why Homemade is Better

Making pancakes from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives often found in store-bought options. With this recipe, you can use fresh, high-quality ingredients that enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your meal.

Additionally, the satisfaction of creating a delicious breakfast from scratch cannot be understated. It’s an opportunity to connect with the cooking process, and there’s nothing quite like serving up a stack of homemade pancakes to brighten someone’s day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

→ Can I substitute the cranberries?

Absolutely! You can use blueberries or chopped apples if preferred.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet.

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes, these pancakes freeze well. Place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake before freezing to prevent sticking.