Thank you for being here! Truly, I’m so grateful to share this cozy, sunshine-filled recipe with you. These Lemon Ricotta Pancake Donut Squares are the kind of breakfast you didn’t know you needed until the first bite makes you pause and smile. They’re warm, tender, citrusy, and just the right balance of nostalgic pancake goodness with a delightful cake-donut twist.
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What Are Lemon Ricotta Pancake Donut Squares?
Imagine your favorite fluffy pancakes blended with the richness of ricotta cheese, baked into soft, golden squares that have a donut-like sweetness and chew. These aren’t your average baked goods—they’re airy, lemon-kissed breakfast bites that you can whip up in one bowl!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- No stand mixer required – Just one bowl and a whisk!
- Soft and moist texture – Thanks to creamy ricotta.
- Light lemon flavor – Bright and refreshing.
- Bake once, eat all week – Perfect for meal prep or brunch gatherings.
- They taste like donut pancakes—but baked! So good.
What Do They Taste Like?
They’re everything you love about a Sunday morning pancake stack—fluffy, lightly sweet, and comforting—but with the structure of a snack cake and the bright pop of lemon zest. Think lemon ricotta pancakes met a powdered sugar donut and had a very delicious baby. 😍
Benefits of This Recipe
- High protein from ricotta and eggs.
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved.
- Mess-free and easier than flipping pancakes.
- Freezer-friendly—just reheat and go!
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- 1 large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or fine grater
- Knife or biscuit cutter (for donut shapes)
- Cooling rack (optional)
Ingredient Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free? Try almond milk and dairy-free ricotta.
- Want extra zing? Add a bit of lemon extract or more zest.
- Low-sugar? Swap cane sugar for maple syrup or monk fruit.
- Add-ins: Blueberries, poppy seeds, or white chocolate chips pair beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish well. - Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta, milk, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth. - Add Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir just until combined—don’t overmix! - Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your greased dish, spreading evenly. Bake 25–30 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. - Cool & Slice
Let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares—or use a round cutter to make donut shapes! - Optional Finishing Touch
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze. Pure joy.
What to Serve With These Squares
- A hot cup of tea or cappuccino
- A dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh berries or a berry compote
- Maple syrup on the side for dipping (yes, please!)
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the lemon zest—it gives the best flavor!
- Use whole-milk ricotta for richness.
- Grease your pan generously for easy release.
- Store extras in the fridge and warm up gently before serving.
Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap squares individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat: Microwave for 15–20 seconds or pop in the toaster oven until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time to 35–40 minutes.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes! They taste just as lovely the next day. Make ahead for easy brunch prep.
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Ricotta Pancake Donut Squares are comfort food with a fresh twist—soft, sweet, lemony, and just a little indulgent. They’re perfect for brunch, breakfast on-the-go, or whenever you need a bite of something special.
Love citrus as much as I do? Don’t miss my Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars or Glazed Mini Lemon Loaves—more bright, sunshiney treats to bake your day better.
Share the Sweetness!
Tried this recipe? I’d love to see your lemony squares! Post your creations on Pinterest and tag me—let’s inspire more cozy mornings and kitchen joy.
Nutritional Information (Per Square – Approximate)
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 16g
- Sugar: 7g
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