Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
There is nothing quite like waking up to a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes swirled with a sweet and spicy ribbon of cinnamon and sugar. This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe takes that cozy, cinnamon roll flavor and marries it perfectly with the light, airy texture of pancakes, making for a breakfast experience that feels downright indulgent yet wonderfully simple. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special occasion, these pancakes bring that nostalgic bakery charm right into your kitchen. Get ready to enjoy the perfect balance of tender, buttery pancakes with that signature cinnamon swirl and a generous drizzle of creamy glaze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe revolves around straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together for big flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in building the fluffy pancake base, that irresistible cinnamon swirl, and the luscious glaze that ties it all together.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect fluffy texture.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the pancake batter.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise and become light and airy.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with buttermilk to create tender crumb and leavening.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk: Brings tanginess and tender moisture to the batter.
- 2 large eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth into the flavor.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Creates a silky batter and adds buttery flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: The star sweetener in the cinnamon swirl, giving depth with molasses notes.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: The essential spice that delivers that signature cinnamon roll taste.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for swirl): Keeps the cinnamon mixture rich and smooth.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Base for the sweet glaze with a soft melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 2 tbsp milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for perfect drizzle.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds aroma and enhances sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
Start by combining the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl. This simple cinnamon mixture is what transforms your pancakes from ordinary to extraordinary. Set it aside—it’s going to be swirled into the batter for that irresistible cinnamon roll effect.
Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Separately, whisk the wet ingredients— buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are perfect because they keep the pancakes delightfully tender.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes with Cinnamon Swirl
Heat a griddle or a large skillet over medium heat and grease it lightly. Pour a 1/4 cup scoop of pancake batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. Quickly spoon or pipe about a tablespoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of each pancake. Using a toothpick or knife, gently swirl the cinnamon into the pancake batter, creating those stunning cinnamon roll patterns. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form and edges set, then flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until golden and cooked through. Repeat for the rest of the batter and cinnamon mixture.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk to get a glaze that is thick enough to coat but thin enough to drizzle easily over the pancakes. This glaze is what seals the deal, mimicking that classic cinnamon roll icing you love so much.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Stack your masterpiece cinnamon roll pancakes high on a plate, drizzle generously with the vanilla glaze, and get ready for the ultimate breakfast treat. The sweet glaze melting over the warm cinnamon swirls is pure morning magic.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh garnishes can elevate your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe to café-quality delight. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts lends a wonderful crunch while a few fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries add a bright, fruity contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a pat of butter on top while the pancakes are hot creates an indulgent finish.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet pancakes with savory sides to balance the meal. Crispy bacon or sausage links offer a salty punch that complements the cinnamon sweetness perfectly. Fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can brighten the plate and provide refreshing textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cinnamon roll pancakes layered in a trifle bowl with alternating layers of glaze and fresh fruit, creating a visually stunning and delicious breakfast dessert. Another idea is to make mini versions and skewer them with fruit for pancake kebabs, perfect for brunch parties or kids’ breakfasts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover cinnamon roll pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between pancakes to keep them from sticking. They will retain their texture and flavor nicely for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
To freeze, separate each pancake with parchment paper, then stack and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe anytime without repeating the whole cooking process.
Reheating
Reheat pancakes gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through. To bring back crisp edges, a quick pan-toast in butter works wonders. Drizzle fresh glaze after reheating to keep that luscious finish.
FAQs
Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free milk plus a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tanginess. Use dairy-free butter or oil to replace the melted butter. The flavors will still come through beautifully.
What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon mixture?
Using a small spoon or a squeeze bottle allows you to have better control when placing the cinnamon swirl on each pancake. Then, gently swirl the mixture with a toothpick or knife—avoid overmixing the batter to keep distinct swirls.
Can I prepare the batter the night before?
It’s best to make the batter fresh for fluffiest pancakes, but you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead and mix in the wet ingredients just before cooking. The cinnamon swirl should be added immediately before cooking for best effect.
Are these pancakes gluten-free?
As written, this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for pancakes to make a delicious gluten-free version.
How do I store leftover glaze?
Leftover glaze can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before using, and add a little milk if it thickened too much.
Final Thoughts
Making these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is like bringing a little bakery magic right into your kitchen. The smell of cinnamon filling the air, the tender, buttery pancakes swirled with sweet cinnamon sugar, and that luscious glaze dripping over the top is truly unbeatable. Whether for a special breakfast or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a stack of these warm, comforting pancakes—you’ll wonder how you ever started your day without them!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the fluffy texture of classic pancakes with the sweet, gooey swirls of cinnamon filling, topped off with a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch treat that captures the delightful flavors of a cinnamon roll in handheld pancake form.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Vanilla Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. Set this cinnamon mixture aside for swirling into the pancakes.
- Make the Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Some lumps are okay; avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes tender.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the heated surface for each pancake. Immediately dollop approximately 1 tablespoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of each pancake batter circle. Using a spoon or a toothpick, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Flip the Pancakes: Cook pancakes for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to look set. Flip carefully and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the pancakes are golden brown and fully cooked through. Repeat this process with the remaining batter and cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Make the Vanilla Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk quantity if needed to reach your preferred consistency for drizzling.
- Serve: Stack the cooked cinnamon roll pancakes on a plate and generously drizzle with the vanilla glaze. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use a squeeze bottle to swirl the cinnamon mixture more precisely onto the pancake batter.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice and use dairy-free butter.
- Adjust cooking time depending on your stove and pan to prevent burning.
- Serve with additional maple syrup if desired for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
