Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Wake up to a breakfast that tastes like your favorite bakery treat but comes together in just minutes—Cinnamon Roll Pancakes! These fluffy, tender pancakes swirl with a sweet cinnamon and brown sugar filling and are topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect way to elevate your morning routine with a comforting, indulgent twist on classic pancakes.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you love the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but want something quicker and easier to make, Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are your new best friend. This recipe combines the best parts of cinnamon rolls and pancakes into one simple, crowd-pleasing dish. The batter is light and fluffy, while the cinnamon-sugar swirl adds a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, the cream cheese glaze ties everything together with a creamy sweetness that feels utterly decadent without being overwhelming.

What makes these pancakes stand out is how fast and straightforward they are. No need to wait for dough to rise or spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you can have a stack of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes ready to impress family, friends, or yourself. Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch or an everyday breakfast treat, this recipe hits the spot.

For an extra special morning, serve these pancakes alongside some fresh fruit or a hot cup of coffee. They also pair beautifully with other breakfast favorites like Breakfast Egg Muffins for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)

How To Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be a little lumpy for fluffy pancakes.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar. This simple mixture will create the signature swirl inside your pancakes that tastes just like cinnamon rolls.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes with the Cinnamon Swirl

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet to form a pancake. Immediately sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon-sugar mixture onto the batter. Using a toothpick or the back of a spoon, swirl the cinnamon sugar gently into the pancake batter.

Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm while you cook the remaining pancakes.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth and creamy. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Stack the warm Cinnamon Roll Pancakes on plates and drizzle generously with the cream cheese glaze. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or even chopped nuts on top. Serve immediately and savor every bite of this delightful breakfast treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter – This leads to dense, tough pancakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Not swirling the cinnamon sugar immediately – Adding the cinnamon sugar right after pouring the batter helps it create beautiful swirls that don’t fully blend in.
• Cooking pancakes on too high heat – Medium heat ensures pancakes cook evenly without burning on the outside and remaining raw inside.
• Skipping the cream cheese glaze – The glaze adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang that mimics a classic cinnamon roll icing, making these pancakes irresistible.

Variations and Customizations

• Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch.
• Top with fresh berries or sliced bananas to add a fruity twist.
• Swap cream cheese glaze for a simple maple syrup drizzle if you prefer a lighter topping.
• Mix a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the cinnamon sugar for a warm, spiced flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm them briefly in a skillet over low heat. You can also freeze the pancakes by layering them between parchment paper in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen by toasting or microwaving until heated through.

FAQ

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle stir before cooking, but avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes fluffy.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. You may want to use a little less or add a bit more milk to keep the batter from becoming too thick.

Is there a way to make these pancakes vegan?

Yes, swap the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk and vegan butter substitute. Use a dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze to keep it vegan-friendly.

What can I serve with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

These pancakes are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or savory sides like crispy bacon or sausage. For a well-rounded breakfast, try them alongside recipes like Viral Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes for a fruity contrast.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes bring the best of both worlds to your breakfast table—fluffy pancakes infused with the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. With a simple batter, easy cinnamon swirl, and a creamy glaze, this recipe is a delicious way to treat yourself and loved ones to a special morning. Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a festive occasion, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite go-to. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy the warm, sweet goodness of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes!

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