Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   MAKE THE BATTER BASE: In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg yolks (save the whites), lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant from the fresh lemon. Make sure the ricotta is at room temperature for best results.

2. 2

   ADD DRY INGREDIENTS: Sift the gluten-free flour and baking powder directly over the ricotta mixture (sifting prevents lumps). Fold in gently with a rubber spatula until just combined - some small lumps are fine. Don't overmix or the pancakes will be dense. The batter will be thick.

3. 3

   WHIP THE EGG WHITES: In a clean, dry bowl (any grease will prevent proper whipping), beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form - when you lift the beaters, the peaks should stand straight up without drooping. This takes 3-4 minutes. The whites should be glossy and hold their shape.

4. 4

   FOLD IN THE WHITES: Add about 1/3 of the whipped whites to the batter and stir to lighten it (this can be vigorous). Add the remaining whites and fold gently - cut down through the center, sweep along the bottom, and fold over the top. Rotate the bowl and repeat until just combined. Some white streaks are okay - don't deflate the whites.

5. 5

   COOK THE PANCAKES: Melt butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-low heat - these pancakes need gentle heat because they're thick and need time to cook through. Using about 3 tablespoons of batter per pancake, drop batter into the pan. These are meant to be small (about 3 inches wide). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden and bubbles appear on the surface, then flip carefully. Cook another 2 minutes until golden and cooked through. Keep warm in a 200°F oven while cooking remaining batches.

6. 6

   SERVE: Stack 3-4 pancakes per serving on plates. Top with fresh blueberries and drizzle generously with maple syrup. The pancakes should be incredibly fluffy and light with a subtle lemon flavor. Optional: add a pat of butter on top or dust with powdered sugar.