Introduction
Transform your breakfast experience with a delightful recipe that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese and the sweet burst of fresh strawberries. These pancakes are fluffy, moist, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. With simple wet and dry ingredients, you can create a delightful stack of pancakes that are both indulgent and nutritious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Wet Ingredients:
– 3/4 cup full-fat ricotta cheese
– 3 large eggs (55g/2oz each)
– 3 tablespoons caster sugar (superfine sugar)
– 3/4 cup full-fat milk (low-fat is acceptable)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar (or other clear vinegar)
Dry Ingredients:
– 1 1/3 cups plain/all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (bi-carb) or 3/4 teaspoon extra baking powder
– Pinch of salt
For Cooking and Serving:
– 1 tablespoon (15g) melted butter
– 8 oz (250g) strawberries, halved or quartered
– 1 tablespoon caster/superfine sugar
– Maple syrup, for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Enjoy these delicious ricotta pancakes topped with sweet macerated strawberries and a drizzle of maple syrup for an unforgettable start to your day!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, caster sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until well combined. Small ricotta curds may remain, but ensure there are no large lumps.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
Mix Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. The batter will be slightly thicker than standard pancake batter.
Prepare Pan
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Lightly brush with melted butter or melt a small amount and wipe off excess with a paper towel to prevent burning.
Cook Pancakes
Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan. Cook for approximately 1.5 minutes until the underside is golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 1.5 minutes. Adjust heat as necessary to ensure pancakes cook through without burning.
Repeat
Continue with the remaining batter, lightly brushing the pan with butter as needed. Keep cooked pancakes warm by stacking them or placing them in a low oven.
Prepare Strawberries
In a bowl, toss the halved or quartered strawberries with 1 tablespoon of caster sugar. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to macerate and release their juices.
Serve
Serve the warm pancakes topped with macerated strawberries and a generous drizzle of maple syrup.
Notes
Use of Ricotta
Full-fat ricotta provides a creamy texture; however, low-fat can be used if preferred.
Egg Size
The recipe assumes large eggs weighing approximately 55g each. Adjust the quantity if using eggs of a different size.
Vinegar Purpose
The vinegar adds acidity, which helps create a tender pancake.
Batch Cooking
If making a larger batch, keep pancakes warm in an oven set to low heat while cooking subsequent batches.
Strawberries Alternatives
Other fruits, such as blueberries or bananas, can be used instead of strawberries if desired.
Cook techniques
Whisking Wet Ingredients
Whisk the ricotta cheese, eggs, caster sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and white vinegar together until smooth. It’s acceptable for small curds to remain, as they add texture to the batter.
Sifting Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to incorporate air into the mixture. This step ensures a lighter and fluffier pancake.
Mixing Batter
Combine the wet and dry ingredients carefully, ensuring you do not overmix. The goal is to keep the batter slightly thick for a good pancake structure.
Cooking Pancakes
Use a non-stick pan preheated to medium heat. Lightly butter the pan to prevent sticking, and adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning the pancakes.
Macerating Strawberries
Toss strawberries with caster sugar and allow them to sit for 20 minutes. This process helps draw out their natural sweetness and juices, enhancing the flavor.
Serving Pancakes
Serve pancakes warm, topped with macerated strawberries and a drizzle of maple syrup for a delicious finish.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat milk instead of full-fat?
Yes, low-fat milk is acceptable and can still produce delicious pancakes.
What if I don’t have caster sugar?
You can use granulated sugar, but you may want to pulse it in a blender to make it finer, achieving a similar texture to caster sugar.
How do I know when to flip the pancakes?
Look for bubbles forming on the surface of the pancake and the edges appearing set before flipping.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time, but it’s best to use it within a few hours for optimal texture.
What other fruits can I use besides strawberries?
You can use various fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or bananas, depending on your personal preference.
Conclusion
These delicious ricotta pancakes, paired with macerated strawberries and maple syrup, create a delightful breakfast or brunch experience. The creamy texture of the ricotta combined with the sweetness of the strawberries elevates the dish, making it a standout favorite. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or as a comforting weekday treat, these pancakes are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Fruit Variations
Experiment with different fruits by substituting strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas for a fresh twist on the recipe.
Nuts and Seeds
Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor. Alternatively, sprinkle some chia seeds or flaxseeds for a nutritious boost.
Spices and Flavors
Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm and aromatic touch. For an extra flavor punch, consider adding lemon zest to the wet ingredients.
Chocolate Lovers
Mix in chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for a decadent treat. Serve with whipped cream for an indulgent dessert-style pancake experience.
Savory Twist
Transform the recipe into a savory dish by omitting the sugar and vanilla. Add herbs like chives or spinach, and serve with a poached egg on top for a gourmet breakfast option.
