Earl Grey Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

These Earl Grey Lemon Ricotta Pancakes bring together cozy tea aromas, creamy ricotta, and citrus brightness for the ultimate breakfast treat. Topped with salted maple butter that melts perfectly over each warm stack, every bite tastes like a special morning. This recipe always vanishes fast in my kitchen whenever I crave a pancake a little fancier than the usual.

Ingredients

• Whole milk: coconut milk or nut-based milk gives a creamy batter and is what infuses with the Earl Grey for the signature flavor Use fresh high-quality milk for best results
• Earl Grey tea bags: deliver subtle floral and citrus notes Pick a really aromatic brand to get that classic taste
• Whole milk ricotta cheese: keeps pancakes soft and adds richness Use full-fat for best taste and texture
• Large eggs: provide structure and moisture always use fresh eggs for fluffy pancakes
• Salted butter: in both the batter and maple butter adds depth melts easily and creates a lovely buttery edge
• Maple syrup: sweetens the batter and the butter opt for real rather than imitation syrup
• Vanilla extract: enhances the lemon and tea flavor pure vanilla makes a difference
• Lemon zest and juice: bring brightness and balance go for unwaxed fresh lemons for zesting
• White whole wheat or all-purpose flour: makes a naturally tender pancake Fresh flour ensures a light texture
• Baking powder: gives the essential lift look for an active one that is not past expiration
• Kosher salt: balances sweet and tangy flavors choose a fine grain for easy mixing
• Fresh berries for serving: make everything pop with color and freshness try blueberries or raspberries
• Salted Maple Butter: uses salted butter maple syrup and cinnamon for optional warmth Pick a good butter for best spreadability

Step-by-Step Instructions

Steep the Milk with Earl Grey:

Bring your milk just to a steaming simmer in a small saucepan then pull it off the heat Add the Earl Grey tea bags cover and let the flavors infuse for 10 minutes The milk should take on a subtle color and fragrance Remove tea bags and discard

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the Earl Grey milk ricotta eggs melted butter maple syrup vanilla lemon zest and lemon juice Make sure everything is smoothly combined for an even batter

Combine with Dry Ingredients:

Add your flour baking powder and kosher salt to the wet mixture Fold together gently until you see no dry streaks and you have a slightly lumpy batter If it is too loose add up to half a cup more flour Let the batter sit for five to ten minutes so the flour can hydrate

Cook the Pancakes:

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium Spray with cooking spray or add a small knob of butter Once hot pour a quarter cup of batter per pancake into the pan Wait until you see bubbles pop on the surface usually after two or three minutes Flip carefully and go another minute or so until golden Stack finished pancakes on a plate as you work

Make the Salted Maple Butter:

In a small bowl blend the salted butter with maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like Stir until creamy and well mixed This butter will soften and melt beautifully over warm pancakes

Serve and Enjoy:

Top pancakes generously with the maple butter and add fresh berries on the side or on top for a burst of color and flavor

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High in protein and calcium thanks to ricotta The pancakes stay fluffy even if made ahead Earl Grey is surprisingly versatile and gives a gentle tea flavor Ricotta is my magic ingredient It makes the pancakes almost custardy on the inside and gives them a little something extra That creamy bite always brings out smiles My family always fights over who gets the last one

Storage Tips

Cool pancakes completely before storing Stack between parchment sheets in an airtight container They keep in the fridge up to three days or freeze for a month To reheat gently warm in a skillet or microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

Any milk can work so use your favorite plant-based or regular For gluten free use a cup for cup gluten free blend If you have no ricotta try cottage cheese blended smooth or Greek yogurt for a different twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pancakes on their own for a comforting brunch Add crispy bacon or a bowl of citrus fruit salad alongside Try dolloping extra ricotta and a dusting of lemon zest on top

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Cultural Context

Earl Grey tea is a British classic and pairing it with pancakes tips breakfast toward a little luxury Ricotta pancakes themselves have roots in Italian cooking where cheese is a common ingredient for rich batters

Recipe FAQs

→ What’s the best method for infusing Earl Grey flavor?

Steep Earl Grey tea bags in warm milk for about 10 minutes. This gently infuses the milk, creating layered citrus and floral notes throughout your pancakes.

→ Can I use a plant-based milk alternative?

Absolutely. Use coconut or nut-based milk to suit your dietary preferences without sacrificing richness or flavor.

→ How do I ensure the pancakes stay fluffy?

Mix the batter until just combined and let it rest briefly before cooking. Don't worry about a few lumps—this helps create a tender bite.

→ Any tips for making salted maple butter extra creamy?

Soften the butter fully before mixing in the maple syrup and cinnamon, then whip until smooth and light for easy spreading.

→ What toppings go well with these pancakes?

Fresh berries are a fantastic choice, but you can also try sliced bananas, extra lemon zest, or a drizzle of additional maple syrup.