If you want to start your morning with a treat that tastes like a warm hug, this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine fluffy pancakes swirled with a gooey cinnamon sugar filling, topped with a sweet vanilla glaze that mimics the classic cinnamon roll experience, but in pancake form. Each bite offers the perfect balance of tender, buttery pancakes and that irresistible cinnamon sweetness, making breakfast feel like a celebration. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you because it’s not just delicious—it’s a surefire way to brighten your day with something cozy and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the soft texture, sweet flavor, and inviting aroma that make this dish unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: The base of our pancakes, providing structure and fluffiness when combined with the leavening agents.
- Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that enhances the batter without overpowering.
- Baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise to light, airy perfection.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies flavors.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- Milk: Moistens the batter and contributes to tenderness.
- Melted butter (for batter and swirl): Adds buttery flavor and keeps the pancakes moist.
- Brown sugar: Mixes with cinnamon for the sweet, sticky swirl inside each pancake.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and that unmistakable cinnamon roll flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Used for the smooth, sweet glaze on top.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a hint of fragrant sweetness to the glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
Start by mixing the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until well combined. Transfer this mixture to a small plastic bag and snip off a tiny corner. This clever piping bag technique makes it easy to add the cinnamon swirl directly onto the pancakes once the batter is on the griddle, ensuring every bite has that signature cinnamon explosion.
Step 2: Mix the Pancake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk and melted butter, then pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until everything comes together—remember, a few lumps are totally fine! Overmixing can make your pancakes tough, so keep it light and airy for the fluffiest results.
Step 3: Cook Pancakes and Pipe the Swirl
Heat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease if needed. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake directly onto the surface. Immediately pipe a spiral of the cinnamon mixture atop the batter. The contrast between the pale batter and the cinnamon swirl is not only visually appealing but promises that sweet surprise inside every pancake.
Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking
Watch for bubbles forming on the surface of the pancakes—that’s your sign to flip them over carefully. Cook the other side until it turns a golden brown color. Repeat this process for the remaining batter, making sure each pancake gets its perfect swirl and golden finish.
Step 5: Whip Up the Vanilla Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. This sweet drizzle is the final touch that transforms the pancakes into a decadent breakfast treat reminiscent of a cinnamon roll, but with an extra fluffy pancake twist.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm pancakes and serve immediately. The combination of the cinnamon-sugar swirl, soft pancake, and sweet glaze is simply irresistible and perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion breakfast.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra sprinkles of cinnamon on top adds a lovely finishing touch that looks pretty and enhances the cinnamon flavor. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries can add a burst of color and freshness to balance the sweetness.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded breakfast, serve these pancakes alongside crispy bacon or savory sausage links. A dollop of Greek yogurt or some creamy scrambled eggs can also complement the richness while adding protein to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your pancakes tall and drizzle the glaze in looping ribbons for a show-stopping presentation. Try layering a dollop of whipped cream and pecans between the pancakes for an extra indulgent brunch experience. Serving with a small pitcher of extra glaze lets guests add as much sweetness as they want, making breakfast both interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any of these delightful Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick breakfast or snack the next day.
Freezing
These pancakes freeze beautifully. Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then stack and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. This makes it easy to enjoy the cinnamon roll fun anytime without the prep work.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pancakes in the toaster or microwave until warm. For the best texture, the toaster or a quick spin in a hot skillet will keep the edges crisp and the inside tender. Don’t forget to add a fresh drizzle of the vanilla glaze for that homemade touch.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind the pancakes might be slightly denser and have a nuttier flavor. You may want to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain fluffiness.
Is there a way to make these pancakes dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. The cinnamon swirl and glaze can be adjusted similarly to keep the flavors intact.
Can I make the cinnamon swirl without using a plastic bag?
If you prefer, you can spoon the cinnamon mixture directly onto the pancakes and then swirl it gently with a toothpick or spoon. The bag method just gives you more control and neat swirls.
How do I know when to flip the pancakes?
Look for bubbles forming and popping on the surface of the pancake—this is the sign the bottom is cooked and it’s time to flip. The edges should also look set and slightly dry before flipping.
Can this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Yes! Doubling or even tripling the recipe works perfectly for larger groups. Just be sure to use a large griddle or cook in batches to keep the pancakes evenly cooked and warm.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is truly a breakfast game-changer, blending the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the lightness of pancakes. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll want to make it your go-to weekend treat. It’s perfect for sharing with family, friends, or simply savoring when you want a little extra comfort on a plate.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these delightful Cinnamon Roll Pancakes that combine the fluffy texture of classic pancakes with the sweet, spicy swirl of cinnamon sugar, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, they bring the warm flavors of a cinnamon roll to your griddle in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Vanilla Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons melted butter until well mixed. Transfer this mixture into a small plastic bag and snip off a tiny corner to create a piping bag. Set it aside for later use.
- Mix Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Cook Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Immediately pipe a swirl of the cinnamon sugar mixture onto the surface of each pancake to mimic the cinnamon roll spiral.
- Flip and Cook: Allow the pancakes to cook until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set, then carefully flip them over. Cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat this process with the remaining batter and cinnamon swirl.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, creating a sweet vanilla glaze.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm vanilla glaze generously over the cooked cinnamon roll pancakes. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned griddle to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough pancakes; a few lumps are okay.
- The cinnamon swirl can be customized with more or less cinnamon or sugar to suit your taste.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while finishing the rest of the batch.
