If you have a sweet tooth and love starting your day with something cozy and indulgent, this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is just what you need. It perfectly captures the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll but in the fluffy, stackable form of pancakes. Imagine swirling sweet cinnamon and brown sugar inside soft, tender pancakes that melt in your mouth and pair beautifully with a drizzle of maple syrup. Whether it’s a special weekend breakfast or a delightful brunch treat, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but every single one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that irresistible aroma you want from your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and a tender crumb.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that enhances the cinnamon flavor.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the pancakes a light and fluffy rise.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens all the flavors.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: The soul of this recipe, infusing warm spice in every bite.
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk): Brings moisture and richness to the batter.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add extra fluffiness.
- 2 tbsp melted butter: Keeps the pancakes soft and adds a buttery richness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Used for the cinnamon swirl filling, offering deep caramel-like sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, fragrant note.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by mixing the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl until everything is evenly distributed. This step ensures your pancakes have that perfect cinnamon-spiced base flavor throughout.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and shiny. The melted butter adds a luscious richness that helps keep the pancakes tender.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Together
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will keep your pancakes light and fluffy.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon to make the swirl filling. Transfer this mixture to a piping bag or a small resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off for easy swirling.
Step 5: Cook and Swirl
Preheat your griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot surface. Before bubbles form on top, pipe the brown sugar cinnamon mixture into a swirl pattern over each pancake. This is the magic moment where your pancakes truly become cinnamon rolls in disguise.
Step 6: Flip and Finish Cooking
When the edges start to look firm and bubbles have formed on top, carefully flip each pancake. Cook until the other side is golden brown and the swirl filling has melted into the pancake, creating little pockets of sweet cinnamon goodness.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve your cinnamon roll pancakes warm, ideally with a drizzle of maple syrup or your favorite frosting for that authentic cinnamon roll experience. Every bite is like a mini celebration of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
The best part of eating these pancakes is topping them with simple but flavorful garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze adds a touch of sweetness and elegance. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas can add a refreshing contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair these luscious pancakes with classic breakfast sides like crispy bacon or sausage to balance the sweetness. A dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a bit of tang, making each bite even more delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack your cinnamon roll pancakes in a tall tower and sandwich layers of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream in between. You can also create pancake “roll-ups” by cooking thinner pancakes and rolling them with the cinnamon filling inside before slicing into pinwheels. Presentation can really amp up the enjoyment!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover cinnamon roll pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and keep them fresh for your next breakfast treat.
Freezing
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe leftovers freeze beautifully. Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay delicious for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, you can use a toaster oven or microwave. For a crispier edge, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Adding a bit of butter while reheating helps recapture that fresh-cooked flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
Absolutely, feel free to use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk substitute you prefer. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid altering the sweetness balance in the pancake batter.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.
How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from burning on the griddle?
Keep your heat on medium and avoid cooking the pancakes too long on one side. Swirling the cinnamon sugar right before bubbles form allows it to melt without burning.
Can I prepare the cinnamon swirl filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The cinnamon and brown sugar mix can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for convenience. Just fill your piping bag right before cooking.
What’s the best syrup to pair with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe?
Classic maple syrup is a go-to for a reason, but you can also try caramel sauce or a cream cheese glaze to elevate the cinnamon roll vibe even further.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds, this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy, rewarding, and downright delicious from the very first swirl to the last bite. Give it a try and watch it become a staple at your breakfast table for cozy mornings and special occasions alike.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, a perfect breakfast treat combining the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the lightness of pancakes. Swirled with a cinnamon brown sugar filling and topped with buttery goodness, these pancakes are easy to make and sure to impress your family or guests.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for filling, separate from batter addition)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon until evenly mixed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Make Batter: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix to maintain fluffy pancakes.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for the filling. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off.
- Heat Griddle: Preheat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pancakes with Swirls: Pour 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the hot griddle. Quickly pipe the cinnamon sugar filling in a swirling pattern on top of the batter before bubbles form on the surface.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: When the edges are set and bubbles appear on the surface, carefully flip the pancake. Cook until the other side is golden brown and the pancake is cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the cinnamon roll pancakes warm, drizzled with maple syrup or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- You can use almond milk or any other milk alternative to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Using a piping bag for the cinnamon sugar filling helps create the signature swirl, but a spoon can work as well by drizzling carefully.
- Adjust the heat of the griddle as necessary to avoid burning the pancakes before they cook through.
- For an extra indulgent treat, top pancakes with cream cheese glaze or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
