High-Protein, Spiced Ricotta Pancakes with Cherry Compote for Pregnancy (Light and Fluffy!!)

There’s something magical about the way ricotta transforms pancakes — soft, fluffy, and just a little bit indulgent, with a richness that feels like a warm hug. 

These spiced ricotta pancakes bring in gentle notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, making them taste like the coziest morning imaginable.

Topped with creamy chocolate yogurt and a sweet-tart cherry compote, they turn an ordinary breakfast into something that feels quietly luxurious.

For more fluffy pancake recipes, check out my Blueberry Cottage Cheese Pancakes or Pumpkin Spice Pancakes. 

Why These Pregnancy and Postpartum-Friendly Spiced Ricotta Pancakes Are Good For You & The Baby

For moms navigating long days (and nights), this recipe is a gentle reminder that food can be both deeply comforting and nourishing.

Ricotta and Greek yogurt pack in protein to keep you grounded, while cherries add antioxidants that support your immune system. It’s the kind of breakfast that doesn’t just fill your belly — it steadies you.

Prep Time: 15 minutes / Cook Time: 15-20 minutes / Total Time: 30-35 minutes / Yields: 12 pancakes

Ingredients (This is It!)

For the pancakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup oat milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter or oil for the griddle

For the cherry compote:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

For the chocolate yogurt:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon honey

Preparation Instructions

1. For the compote: In a small saucepan, combine cherries, water, brown sugar (or honey), and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cherries have softened and the sauce has thickened. Set aside.
2. For the chocolate yogurt: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, cocoa powder, and honey until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
3. For the pancakes: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, oat milk, eggs, and vanilla. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix!
4. Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Create a stack of 2-3 pancakes, spreading a generous amount of the chocolate yogurt on top. Add a spoonful of the cherry compote as the finishing touch. 

Tips For the Best Pregnancy-Safe Spiced Ricotta Pancakes with Cherries

• Use add-ins: Stir 1/2-1 cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips into the batter for more flavor and texture. 
• Make larger pancakes: Scoop 1/2 cup batter onto the skillet for larger pancakes to reduce cooking time. 
• Use dairy: Swap the oat milk for whole milk, 2%, or even buttermilk if you prefer!
• Prep ahead: I like to make the chocolate yogurt and/or cherry compote 1-2 days in advance. That way, breakfast doesn't seem like such an ambitious project when I finally make the pancakes :) 

How to Store & Reheat these Pregnancy Ricotta Pancakes

• Fridge: Refrigerate cooled pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The compote and yogurt can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled pancakes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat frozen pancakes, toast or microwave them for 30-45 seconds.

A Note From My Chaotic Kitchen

Whether you’re stacking these high for a slow weekend brunch, or sneaking in a plateful between laundry and nap times, these pancakes carry a certain sense of grounding comfort. I love them with a sip of my Decaf Dalgona Matcha Latte!

Sweet enough to feel special, but balanced enough to fuel your day — they’re exactly the kind of recipe that makes mornings feel softer and a little more manageable.