Save Ricotta Lemon Hazelnut Waffles deliver a cloudlike texture with zesty citrus and a rich nuttiness—an upgrade from any basic breakfast. These waffles balance creamy ricotta and bright lemon with the crunch of toasted hazelnuts, making them just decadent enough for brunch but simple enough for a weekday treat.
I tried this combination on a lazy Sunday, using up leftover ricotta and the last lemon. Now it is my must-make whenever I want something that feels both comforting and a little bit gourmet.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: gives body and tenderness to the waffle so pick a high-quality unbleached flour for the best crumb
- Granulated sugar: adds gentle sweetness that does not overpower the lemon notes
- Baking powder and baking soda: help the waffles puff up giving them that irresistible crisp edge and pillowy inside
- Fine sea salt: balances the sweet and tart flavors and sharpens them
- Ricotta cheese: brings creamy richness and keeps the crumb super tender I recommend whole milk ricotta with no extra stabilizers
- Whole milk: gives moisture and richness opt for fresh milk for pure taste
- Large eggs: bind everything while contributing to the light airy lift
- Unsalted butter: melts right into the batter offering flavor and a golden finish look for fresh European-style for extra taste
- Lemon zest and fresh lemon juice: add brightness and zing choose unwaxed organic lemons for pure crisp citrus flavor
- Pure vanilla extract: rounds everything out and brings warmth
- Toasted hazelnuts: deliver crunch and an earthy finish for extra depth toast them yourself for maximum aroma
- Butter or oil: is used to grease the iron for easy waffle release I prefer a little softened butter for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Waffle Iron:
- Set your waffle iron to the recommended heat Use medium-high for crisp golden waffles Give it a solid five minutes to heat up while you gather and prep your ingredients
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together the flour sugar baking powder baking soda and salt Whisk for at least thirty seconds to evenly distribute the leaveners and eliminate any clumps
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- Crack eggs into a separate mixing bowl Add ricotta whole milk melted but cooled butter lemon zest lemon juice and vanilla extract Beat until you see a smooth creamy mixture The lemon zest should disperse evenly for flavor in each bite
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients Slowly fold with a spatula Just barely mix until no big streaks of flour remain It is okay if the batter is slightly lumpy Overmixing makes waffles tough
- Fold in Hazelnuts:
- Add chopped toasted hazelnuts to the batter Gently fold from the bottom up so the nuts scatter throughout every scoop
- Cook the Waffles:
- Use a pastry brush to lightly grease both plates of the hot waffle iron Scoop about a half cup of batter for each waffle Spread the batter just to the edges for even cooking Close the iron and cook for four to five minutes or until waffles are deep golden and crisp
- Serve and Garnish:
- Carefully lift waffles from the iron Serve immediately Dust with powdered sugar add extra hazelnuts or drizzle with honey If you have fresh berries they make a beautiful tangy topper
Save I always look forward to making the ricotta batter because it signals something special is coming for breakfast My kids love getting to sprinkle hazelnuts and watch the steam escape as the waffles cook
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before stacking between parchment and freezing in an airtight container Toast straight from frozen for crispness When storing in the fridge cover loosely You do not want them to get soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Almonds or pecans stand in well for hazelnuts in flavor and crunch Greek yogurt works for ricotta in a pinch though you lose some creaminess For a dairy-free swap try your favorite plant-based butter and milk alternative
Serving Suggestions
Pile the waffles with a spoonful of mascarpone and a handful of berries for an Italian brunch theme Or go classic with maple syrup and a grating of fresh lemon zest Serve with hot coffee or even a splash of Prosecco on special occasions
Save Waffles this good turn any breakfast into a memory Enjoy them warm with your favorite toppings and savor the bright, nutty flavors with every bite.
Recipe Help
- → How do I make the waffles extra fluffy?
Whisk the wet and dry ingredients separately and mix until just combined. Overmixing can make waffles dense.
- → Can I substitute hazelnuts?
Yes, toasted almonds or pecans work well and offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor.
- → What toppings go best with these waffles?
Try powdered sugar, fresh berries, extra hazelnuts, or a drizzle of honey for delicious results.
- → Can I freeze leftover waffles?
Absolutely! Freeze cooled waffles and reheat in a toaster for a crisp texture.
- → Is there a way to boost the lemon flavor?
Add a few drops of lemon extract or more fresh zest for an extra citrusy kick.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients in this waffle are vegetarian-friendly.