Ricotta and apple pancakes

Ricotta and Apple Pancakes – A Fluffy and Flavorful Delight

Who doesn’t love pancakes? These fluffy treats, which melt in your mouth, are perfectly adaptable and can be prepared with a variety of ingredients. Today, I invite you to discover an absolutely wonderful recipe for ricotta and apple pancakes. These pancakes are not only delicious but also very versatile, suitable for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation Time and Servings

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Rest time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 15-18 pancakes

Ingredients

To prepare these fluffy ricotta and apple pancakes, you will need the following ingredients:

- 250 grams of ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 23 grams of unsalted butter, melted
- 150 ml of milk
- 150 ml of Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- Juice of one lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
- 90 grams of organic white flour
- 2 large apples, peeled and grated
- 1 teaspoon of coconut oil for frying

A Little Story about Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a spice with a distinct flavor that enhances both sweet and savory dishes. Used in moderation, it adds a warm and deep note to dishes, from purees and soufflés to cream cheeses and desserts. It’s important to use it freshly grated, as it loses its aroma quickly when exposed to heat.

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly, peel them, remove the cores, and grate them. Squeeze the juice of one lemon and add the apples to the lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep their color fresh. Set them aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Batter

2. Ricotta Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten eggs. Use a whisk or a fork to mix well until you achieve a smooth paste.
3. Adding Ingredients: Add the melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Mix again until the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Flour and Liquids: Gradually incorporate the flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the milk and Greek yogurt, continuing to mix until the batter becomes smooth.
5. Apples: Add the grated apples and lemon juice to the prepared batter. If desired, you can add half a teaspoon of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost. Mix the composition well and let it sit for an hour. This resting time allows the ingredients to blend and develop a fluffier texture.

Step 3: Cooking the Pancakes

6. Heating the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the coconut oil. Let it heat up.
7. Frying the Pancakes: Use a ladle to pour the batter into the skillet, forming pancakes of your desired size. Let them cook until bubbles appear on the surface (about 2-3 minutes), then flip them with a spatula. Cook on the other side until golden (another 2-3 minutes). You will get about 15-18 pancakes, depending on their size.

Step 4: Serving

8. Enjoying the Pancakes: Serve the pancakes warm, with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for added sweetness. They are delicious and simple, but also an excellent base for adding fresh fruits, nuts, or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top.

Practical Tips

- Variations: Instead of apples, you can experiment with other fruits, such as blueberries, currants, or cranberries, to give the pancakes a different twist.
- Dairy-Free: If you want a dairy-free version, you can replace the ricotta with a mixture of soft tofu and soy yogurt.
- Sweetening: If you prefer sweeter pancakes, add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar to the batter, but be careful not to overdo it to avoid making them too heavy.

Nutritional Information

These pancakes are rich in protein due to the ricotta and eggs, providing a feeling of fullness. Ricotta is also a good source of calcium, while apples bring fiber and antioxidants. One serving of pancakes contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the added ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare the batter in advance? Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Make sure to mix it well before use.
2. How can I store the pancakes? You can store the cooked pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to bring them back to life.
3. What drinks can I serve alongside? These pancakes are delicious alongside a fruit tea, a latte, or even a fresh smoothie.

In conclusion, ricotta and apple pancakes are an excellent choice for any meal of the day. With their fluffy texture and delicious flavor, you can’t go wrong. So gather your ingredients and let yourself be inspired by this simple yet absolutely scrumptious recipe. Enjoy every bite!