Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: A Sweet Breakfast Treat

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the indulgent flavors of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of pancakes, creating a breakfast masterpiece. These pancakes feature a soft and fluffy base, a sweet cinnamon swirl, and a luscious cream cheese glaze that will make any morning special. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating your family, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

You’ll need for the Pancakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pancake Batter

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then whisk until well blended.
• In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy for light, fluffy pancakes.

2. Make the Cinnamon Filling

• Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a small corner cut off for easy swirling.

3. Cook the Pancakes

• Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, then lightly coat it with butter or oil.
• Pour 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
• Pipe a spiral of the cinnamon filling onto the batter, starting from the center and working outward.

4. Flip and Finish

• Cook the pancakes until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges begin to set, approximately 2-3 minutes. Gently flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

• Whisk the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a bowl until smooth and pourable.

6. Serve

• Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm pancakes and serve immediately for a decadent breakfast treat.

Helpful Tips

Prepare the Batter Carefully

When mixing the pancake batter, avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes light and fluffy. Stir just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined, leaving small lumps in the batter.

Keep the Cinnamon Swirl Smooth

Ensure the cinnamon filling is smooth and easy to pipe by thoroughly mixing the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. If the mixture thickens, warm it slightly to restore its consistency.

Use the Right Heat

Cook the pancakes over medium heat to ensure even cooking and to prevent the cinnamon swirl from burning. Adjust the heat as needed based on your stove’s settings.

Create Neat Swirls

For clean and uniform cinnamon swirls, use a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a small corner cut off. Pipe the swirl starting from the center and working outward.

Warm the Glaze

For a perfect drizzle, warm the cream cheese glaze slightly before using. This step ensures a smooth and pourable consistency that coats the pancakes beautifully.

Serve Immediately

Pancakes taste best when served hot. Prepare the glaze ahead of time so you can drizzle it over the pancakes as soon as they’re cooked.

Delicious Variations

Nutty Crunch

Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for added texture and flavor. The nuts pair perfectly with the warm spices and create a delightful crunch.

Chocolate Lovers

For a decadent twist, sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the pancake batter or mix cocoa powder into the cinnamon swirl. The melted chocolate adds richness and complements the sweet glaze.

Fruity Flair

Incorporate fresh fruit into the batter or as a topping. Blueberries, sliced bananas, or diced apples work well. You can also drizzle a fruit compote over the pancakes for a fresh and tangy balance.

Spiced Glaze

Enhance the cream cheese glaze by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. This variation intensifies the spiced flavor, making the pancakes even more indulgent.

Dairy-Free Option

Substitute the buttermilk with almond or oat milk and use a plant-based cream cheese for the glaze. This version maintains the richness and flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.

Mini Pancakes

Turn the recipe into bite-sized pancakes perfect for kids or party platters. Serve with the glaze on the side for dipping.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration

After cooking, allow the pancakes to cool completely to avoid condensation in storage. Stack them with parchment paper between each layer to keep them from sticking together. Place the stack in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, then store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving to enjoy their freshly cooked flavor.

Freezing for Longer Shelf Life

To freeze pancakes, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.After freezing, move the pancakes into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for storageLabel the bag with the date to make tracking freshness simple and convenient. Stored properly, they can last up to two months in the freezer without losing quality.

Reheating Tips

For best results, reheat pancakes in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain their fluffy texture and the integrity of the cinnamon swirl. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the pancakes rubbery or unevenly heated. For frozen pancakes, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Storing the Glaze

If you have leftover cream cheese glaze, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When ready to use, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.

With proper storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes fresh, even days after making them.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast Bliss

Start your morning with these warm and fluffy pancakes paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Their sweet, spiced flavors make them an indulgent yet comforting breakfast treat. Add a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, for a refreshing balance.

Brunch Centerpiece

These pancakes are perfect for elevating any brunch spread. Serve them alongside savory dishes like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or breakfast sausage. Dust the pancakes with powdered sugar for an elegant touch and drizzle them generously with the cream cheese glaze.

Dessert-Style Delight

Transform the pancakes into a dessert by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce adds even more indulgence, making them a decadent treat for any occasion.

Kid-Friendly Treat

Make smaller, silver-dollar-sized pancakes for easy handling, especially for kids. Serve them with a variety of toppings, such as sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or a touch of honey, to let them customize their own plate.

On-the-Go Option

Prepare the pancakes ahead of time, store them in individual portions, and reheat as needed. They make a quick and satisfying snack for busy mornings or afternoons.

Print

Frequently Asked Questions

1.Is it possible to substitute with another type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture or gluten-free flour for a dietary-friendly option. Ensure the gluten-free blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.

2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

If buttermilk is unavailable, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before incorporating it into the recipe.

3. Is it possible to prepare the batter in advance?

While fresh batter yields the best results, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Stir gently before using, but avoid overmixing to maintain the pancakes’ fluffy texture.

4. How do I store leftover pancakes?

Let the pancakes cool entirely before stacking them with parchment paper between each layer to avoid sticking. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for extended storage.

5. How do I reheat pancakes?

Reheat pancakes in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to preserve their texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.

6. Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or fruit to the batter for a unique twist. You can also enhance the cream cheese glaze with a splash of maple syrup or a pinch of cinnamon.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of pancakes, creating a breakfast that feels indulgent and special. Their soft, fluffy texture, swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling, and creamy glaze make them a treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a relaxing weekend morning or a festive brunch gathering.

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adapt it to suit different preferences. You can use alternative flours, experiment with toppings, or even add fruit or nuts for extra flavor. Additionally, the pancakes can be made ahead and reheated, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Serve these pancakes with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of syrup for an elevated experience. Once you’ve tried them, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whip up a batch today and savor the delicious results!