There is something irresistibly comforting about the combo of fluffy pancakes and the sweet, swirling goodness of cinnamon rolls. This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe perfectly marries those two breakfast favorites into one fabulous dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine golden pancakes speckled with gooey cinnamon sugar spirals, all drizzled with a luscious cream cheese glaze—it’s breakfast bliss that’s easy to whip up but feels truly special. Whether you’re gearing up for a leisurely weekend brunch or surprising your loved ones with something extra delightful, this recipe delivers on flavor and that classic cinnamon roll charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe lies in the simplicity and familiarity of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fluffy texture the baking powder imparts to the rich depth the cinnamon swirl brings. These everyday pantry staples come together to create a mouthwatering breakfast treat that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone that gives the pancakes their tender, soft structure.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the batter itself.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Essential for making those pancakes rise light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
- 1 1/4 cups milk: Keeps the batter smooth and helps achieve that perfect pancake consistency.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: Infuses a buttery flavor and moist texture into the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers a subtle aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: The caramel notes create a deep, sweet swirl within each pancake.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Provides the signature spicy warmth in the cinnamon swirl.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter for cinnamon swirl: Ensures the cinnamon sugar mixture stays rich and gooey.
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened: The base for the glaze, adding tangy creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons butter softened: Adds silkiness to the glaze.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the glaze.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the glaze with sweet vanilla notes.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter
Start by whisking together your dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—overmixing can make the pancakes tough, so it’s okay if a few lumps remain. This batter will be the base for your fluffy pancakes that have that light, tender crumb you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until thick and spreadable. For easy swirling, transfer this cinnamon mixture into a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with a small snip in the corner. This step is key to creating those beautiful spirals of cinnamon sugar that make this recipe stand out.
Step 3: Cook Your Pancakes
Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat, aiming for a moderate temperature so the cinnamon swirl doesn’t burn. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Quickly pipe the cinnamon swirl in a spiral pattern on top of the wet batter. Cook until bubbles begin forming on the surface—this signals it’s time to flip. Use a gentle hand when flipping, and cook for another minute or two until both sides are golden and cooked through. Remember, keeping the heat medium-low helps maintain that gooey cinnamon center without overcooking.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Glaze
While your pancakes cook, blend together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and pourable. This glaze adds that signature luscious finishing touch that mimics the classic icing on cinnamon rolls. Drizzle it generously over warm pancakes to complete the experience.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe, consider fresh garnishes that add texture and flavor contrast. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts brings a delightful crunch, while a dusting of cinnamon powder can enhance the aroma. For a bright touch, top with a few fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a burst of freshness against the sweet glaze.
Side Dishes
Pairing these cinnamon-laced pancakes with simple side dishes transforms your breakfast into a full celebration. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage offer savory balance, while a side of fresh fruit salad keeps everything light and refreshing. For a creamy element, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream to round out each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun, especially with a dish as lovely as this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe. Stack your pancakes high on a pretty plate, then artistically drizzle the cream cheese glaze in swirling patterns. Add a small bowl of extra cinnamon swirl on the side for dipping or layering between pancakes. Another fun idea is to cut the stack into waffle-like squares and serve on skewers for a playful brunch presentation that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra pancakes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them as fresh as possible, separate layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. This makes for a quick and delicious breakfast the next day without a lot of fuss.
Freezing
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is surprisingly freezer-friendly. Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour before transferring to a freezer bag or container. Frozen pancakes can last up to two months and are perfect for busy mornings when time is tight but cravings are high.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, toast pancakes gently in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through and slightly crisp on the edges. Alternatively, microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for 20 to 30 seconds to avoid drying out. Add a fresh drizzle of cream cheese glaze after reheating to mimic that just-made magic all over again.
FAQs
Can I make the cinnamon swirl ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cinnamon swirl mixture can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just let it come back to room temperature before piping onto the pancakes.
What can I use instead of cream cheese glaze?
If you want to skip the cream cheese, a simple vanilla icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract works beautifully. Maple syrup is also an excellent alternative that complements the cinnamon flavor nicely.
How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from burning?
Keep the heat on medium-low and watch the pancakes closely as you cook. The cinnamon sugar is prone to burning if the temperature is too high, so patience is key for those perfectly gooey swirls.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture might be slightly different, but the pancakes will still be delicious and fluffy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is vegetarian-friendly. It uses no meat or animal-derived gelatin, just wholesome ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast recipe that’s equal parts cozy and impressive, this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is a winner every time. It’s straightforward enough for a weekday treat yet indulgent enough to make any weekend a celebration. Once you experience those fluffy layers dotted with warm cinnamon swirls and topped with creamy glaze, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. So grab your mixing bowls and skillet, and prepare to enjoy breakfast like never before!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, a perfect fusion of fluffy pancakes and the sweet, spicy flavors of cinnamon rolls. Swirled with a rich cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with a creamy vanilla glaze, these pancakes make a decadent breakfast or brunch treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined to create the pancake dry mix.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture into the dry ingredients just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a thick, spreadable cinnamon swirl mixture. Transfer this to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a small corner snipped for easy piping.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the surface for each pancake. Immediately pipe a spiral of the cinnamon mixture onto each pancake surface. Cook until bubbles appear on the pancake surface and edges begin to look set, then carefully flip and cook until golden and cooked through.
- Prepare the Glaze: Beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm cinnamon roll pancakes generously with the cream cheese glaze and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Maintain medium-low heat while cooking to prevent the cinnamon swirl from burning.
- Keep pancakes warm in a low oven while preparing additional batches to serve hot.
- The glaze can be made ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature and stir before drizzling.
