Last Updated on May 20, 2025 by Lisa Keys
Tired of the same old breakfast routine? Try my ricotta waffles. These aren't your average waffles. The addition of creamy ricotta and citrus flavored olive oil magically transforms the batter into a waffle that bakes up tender on the inside with crispy edges on the outside. In addition, to the subtle tang of the ricotta, these light and fluffy waffles get a twist of citrus that pairs perfectly with both sweet and savory toppings.
As a side note, my friend Maryann is the inspiration behind this recipe. She is one of the dear friends and colleagues I miss most since leaving my job at The Taft School in Connecticut. As a physical therapist and director of the athletic training room Maryann and I worked closely together caring for injured athletes. Smart as a whip, selfless and caring she did whatever it took to get the students well and safely back in the game. Mutual respect and our love for the kids we cared for made us fast friends on and off the field. Plus, William adored her.
Maryann and her husband, Kenny, winter in Arizona. When they came across Queen Creek Olive Mill they sent me a gift box of their citrus fruit flavored oils. Not only are they a pleasure to bake with, but perfect for savory dishes, as well. The oils impart a fresh fruity flavor without any bitterness. Think meyer lemon, blood orange and lime. These oils are now pantry staples.
How to use oil in ricotta waffles
- Substitute flavored olive oils for the melted butter or other fats in your waffle batter.
- Compliment the flavored oil adding freshly grated citrus zest for added flavor.
Serving suggestions:
The possibilities are endless! Some popular options include:
- Maple syrup and butter
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate sauce
- Nutella
- Sliced bananas
- Peach slices
- Powdered sugar
- Fried egg and bacon
- Savory herbs and a drizzle of olive oil
These homemade ricotta waffles will impress your family and friends. Citrus-kissed and so easy to make they're perfect for a weekend brunch, or a special weekday treat.
Ricotta Waffles
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons blood orange olive oil or plain olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar and orange zest until the zest is coated in sugar. Add the orange sugar to the bowl with the dry ingredients.
- In a bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla, ricotta, and buttermilk. Whisk until combined well.
- Add the wet ingredients all at once to the dry ingredients and stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. Don’t overmix. It’s ok if a few lumps remain.
- Heat waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Drop batter into the waffle iron; cook until golden brown. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
While waffles are generally a treat, adding ricotta can contribute some protein and calcium. You can also make them healthier by using whole wheat flour and topping them with fresh fruit instead of syrup. Look for recipes that minimize added sugar.
Yes, you can use low-fat or part-skim ricotta cheese. However, keep in mind that using a lower-fat version might slightly alter the texture, potentially making the waffles a little less rich and tender.
Yes, you can cook ricotta waffles ahead of time. Let them cool completely on a wire rack, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheat them in a toaster, oven, or waffle iron for the best results.
Absolutely! Feel free to add extracts like vanilla, almond or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. Lemon oil and lemon zest make for a delicious lemon ricotta waffle.
Martine Fusco
My neighbor dug up plants from her yard for me and I wanted to bake her something! I’m trying the banana bread because I’m so curious about lime and banana together! I’ll let you know!!
Lisa
Thanks for giving my recipe a try.....I am a huge citrus fan and especially love lime. Hope you do too! Great neighbors <3
Ken
From love, made with love, true friends, what more to be said
Lisa
I just love the photo of the two of them together....forever grateful
Louis Matino (@LouMatino)
Awesome recipes. Thanks for sharing!
Lisa
you are welcome
Lisa Keys
A family favorite.