Rue de L'Espoir Lemon, Ricotta Cheese Griddle Cakes

Source: Rue de L'Espoir, Providence, Rhode Island

10 egg yolks
6 ounces melted butter
2 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
3/4 teaspoon real vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 egg whites
Nonstick cooking spray

Fold together egg yolks, butter, ricotta cheese and vanilla extract and put aside.

Whisk together flour, sugar, salt and lemon zest. With rubber spatula incorporate egg yolk and cheese mixture into flour mixture.

Whip egg whites into glossy peaks and gently fold into the batter.

Spray saut? pan with nonstick cooking spray. Over medium heat, make griddle cakes, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Makes 16-18 pancakes and serves 5 to 6 people.