Weekend mornings just got sweeter with these cranberry orange ricotta pancakes. Soft, creamy, and bursting with citrus and tangy cranberry notes, these pancakes bring a bakery-style brunch right to your kitchen. The ricotta makes them ultra-fluffy, while the orange zest and cranberries cut through with brightness and just the right amount of tart.

If you’re looking to impress at a brunch or simply elevate your morning routine, this recipe does the job beautifully. The pancakes cook to golden perfection and smell like pure sunshine. Whether you drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar, every bite is a soft pillow of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes Recipe

These aren’t your average flapjacks. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and zesty citrus makes them extra moist and flavorful. You get just enough sweetness balanced with the slight tang of cranberries. Plus, they reheat well, making them great for meal prep. It’s a recipe that feels both cozy and sophisticated, perfect for slow mornings or holiday brunches.

What Kind of Ricotta Should I Use?

Full-fat ricotta works best here. It gives the pancakes a rich texture without being too heavy. If you only have part-skim ricotta, that’ll do in a pinch, but avoid ricotta with too much moisture. If it seems wet, strain it through cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve to avoid watery batter.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes

To make these delicious pancakes, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and a few standout ingredients that make this recipe shine.

All-purpose flour: This is the base of the batter, giving structure to the pancakes.
Baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise into fluffy rounds.
Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness.
Ricotta cheese: The star ingredient, adding creaminess and a tender bite.
Milk: Loosens the batter to the perfect consistency.
Orange zest: Brings a fresh citrusy aroma and flavor that pairs perfectly with cranberries.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle warmth.
Dried cranberries: Their tart-sweetness adds bursts of flavor in every bite.
Butter or oil (for cooking): Keeps the pancakes golden and non-stick in the pan.

How To Make the Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add in the ricotta, milk, orange zest, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until incorporated—don’t overmix. Fold in the dried cranberries last.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh orange slices.

Serving and Storing These Pancakes

These cranberry orange ricotta pancakes are best served fresh off the skillet while still warm and fluffy. They pair wonderfully with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and even a dollop of whipped cream for something more indulgent. This recipe makes about 10-12 medium-sized pancakes, which comfortably feeds 4 people.

For leftovers, store the pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or warm them gently in a skillet. You can also freeze the pancakes for up to 2 months—just separate them with parchment paper and store in a zip-top bag.

What to Serve With Cranberry Orange Ricotta Pancakes?

Fresh Berry Medley

A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries balances the citrus notes beautifully.

Maple-Glazed Bacon

The sweet-savory combo is unbeatable alongside the tangy pancakes.

Orange Juice or Mimosas

Keep the citrus theme going with a fresh glass of OJ or a celebratory mimosa.

Greek Yogurt with Honey

Add some protein with a spoonful of Greek yogurt topped with a swirl of honey.

Toasted Pecans

For a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans on top of the pancakes.

Soft Scrambled Eggs

Something savory to offset the sweet and keep things balanced.

Chai Latte

The warm spices in chai pair wonderfully with orange zest and cranberry.

Want More Pancake Ideas?

If you loved these cranberry orange ricotta pancakes, you might enjoy these other breakfast creations too:

Fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes for a high-protein twist.
Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers if you’re craving golden bite-sized comfort.
Loaded Tater Tots that make the perfect side or snack.
Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole for a hearty breakfast bake.
Breakfast Roll-Ups that are great for meal prep mornings.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh cranberries instead? Did you swap the orange for lemon? I love hearing how you all put your own spin on these pancakes.

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