Ricotta makes pancakes tender and slightly creamy, while berries provide acidity and colour. Instead of cooking all the honey into the batter, this recipe uses Manuka honey mainly at the table so its flavour remains easy to notice.
Estimated yield: 8–10 small pancakes Estimated preparation/cooking: about 25 minutes
Recipe overview
These ricotta pancakes with honey use ricotta for a soft, tender batter, berries for freshness and Manuka honey mainly at the table. They can also be described as honey ricotta pancakes or Manuka honey pancakes, but the recipe is not built around a high MGO grade. Keeping most of the honey out of the pan helps its flavour remain noticeable when served. Ricotta moisture and pancake size can change the result.
Ingredients
- 250 g fresh ricotta
- 2 eggs, separated
- 125 mL milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 120 g self-raising flour
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or neutral oil, for the pan
- 150 g fresh berries
- Manuka honey, to serve
- Plain yoghurt, optional
Method
- Whisk ricotta, egg yolks, milk and vanilla until just combined.
- Fold in the flour and salt. Do not overmix.
- In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites to soft peaks, then fold gently into the batter.
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat and lightly grease it.
- Cook small rounds of batter for about 2 minutes, or until bubbles appear and the base is golden. Turn and cook the second side until set through.
- Serve warm with berries, yoghurt if using, and a drizzle of Manuka honey.
What Manuka grade should I use?
There is no need to buy the highest grade simply for pancakes. MGO is a concentration measure, not a flavour-strength scale. Choose a current food-grade product that suits your budget and taste. See What Does MGO Mean in Manuka Honey?.
Can I make the batter ahead?
For best lift, cook the batter soon after folding in the egg whites. You can measure the dry ingredients and prepare the ricotta mixture ahead, then combine shortly before cooking.
Can I use cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese can work, but the texture is different. Blend or mash it first if you want a smoother batter, and adjust the liquid balance cautiously.
Can babies eat these pancakes?
Do not serve honey to infants under 12 months, even when it is mixed into another food. See When Can Babies Have Honey?.
For broader recipe ideas, visit Manuka Honey Recipes, and for serving-size context see Calories in Honey.
Allergen note: contains milk, egg and gluten.
Recipe note: This recipe has been developed for home cooking but has not yet been independently kitchen-tested by Australian Honey Company. Results may vary with ingredients, equipment and cooking conditions.