Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Zest of 1 orange

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 large egg whites

1/2 cup fresh orange juice

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Butter and maple syrup for serving, if desired

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the sugar and orange zest. Rub them together between your fingers until fragrant, then add this mixture to the flour mixture and whisk to combine. Set aside.

Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg, egg whites, orange juice, canola oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients just until the flour disappears. Stir in the mini chocolate chips carefully to avoid over mixing; the batter will be thick.

Step 5: Heat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly spray with cooking spray.

Step 6: Drop about ⅓ cup of batter onto the hot griddle. Cook until the pancakes are browned on the underside and starting to set, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for about 2 minutes more.

Step 7: Repeat with remaining batter. Serve the pancakes warm with butter and maple syrup if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract along with the vanilla.

Swap mini chocolate chips for chopped dark chocolate or dried cranberries for a different twist.

To keep pancakes warm while cooking the batch, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F).

If you prefer fluffier pancakes, gently whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form before folding them into the batter.

Storage

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a toaster or skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also freeze cooked pancakes by placing them between parchment sheets and storing in a freezer bag for up to 1 month; reheat from frozen using a toaster or microwave.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?

Yes, regular chocolate chips work fine, but mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly and melt better for a more consistent chocolate flavor throughout the pancake.

Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice and zest?

Fresh orange juice and zest provide the best bright flavor, but you can substitute store-bought orange juice in a pinch. Zest adds essential aromatic oils, so try not to omit it for optimal taste.