Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe

If you love the sweet, comforting flavors of a bakery-style treat for breakfast, then Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are about to become your new obsession. Imagine fluffy, tender pancakes swirled with a rich cinnamon and brown sugar filling, topped with luscious cream cheese icing that melts perfectly over every bite. These pancakes offer the best of both worlds — the cozy, spiced sweetness of a cinnamon roll combined with the lightness and ease of a classic pancake, creating a breakfast experience that’s both indulgent and wonderfully simple to whip up. Trust me, once you try these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, you’ll have a new favorite way to elevate your mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. Each component works together to make the batter light, the cinnamon swirl rich and gooey, and the icing decadent and silky.

• Milk: Use regular or plant-based milk to keep your batter nice and smooth for fluffy pancakes.
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and complements the cinnamon swirl perfectly.
• Baking powder: Essential for giving the pancakes their light, airy texture.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the batter’s flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Regular or gluten-free (like King Arthur Measure for Measure); it’s the base that holds everything together.
• Cinnamon: The star spice that creates that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Butter: Regular or plant-based, softened to blend with the cinnamon and sugar, creating a luscious swirl.
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar: Provides deep caramel notes that caramelize beautifully in the skillet.
• Powdered sugar: The foundation for the creamy icing drizzle.
• Cream cheese: Offers a tangy richness that balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter

Begin by whisking together your milk, maple syrup, baking powder, and vanilla extract in a bowl. This mixture sets the flavorful, moist base for your pancakes. Then, gradually add the flour, stirring just until the batter comes together — don’t overmix to keep your pancakes tender and fluffy.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a smaller bowl, combine cinnamon, softened butter, and brown sugar until smooth. This luscious cinnamon sugar mixture will become your spiral filling. Transfer it to a pastry bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off — this makes it easy to create beautiful cinnamon swirls on your pancakes.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Icing

Next, blend powdered sugar, melted butter, and cream cheese until silky smooth. This icing will be drizzled over your warm pancakes for that irresistible sweet and tangy finish. Set it aside while you cook the pancakes, or keep it slightly warm if needed for easy drizzling.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes with Cinnamon Swirl

Heat a skillet over medium-low with a little butter until it sizzles gently. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Immediately pipe a spiral of your cinnamon swirl mixture into the center. Add another 1 to 2 tablespoons of batter over the swirl to seal it in and prevent burning. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip carefully and cook until golden on the other side.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Garnishes

Drizzling warm Cream Cheese Icing is the classic way to finish these pancakes, adding a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth layer of sweetness and tang. If you want to switch it up, a generous pour of maple syrup also works beautifully, soaking into the pancakes and cinnamon swirl for pure comfort.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with crispy bacon or savory sausage links to balance their sweetness with a little salty crunch. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, blueberries, or warm apple compote also adds a refreshing contrast and extra color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack multiple layers of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes high, alternating layers with extra cinnamon sugar filling or cream cheese drizzle between pancakes for an impressive breakfast centerpiece. You can even serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for delightful texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps preserve the pancakes’ softness and the delicious cinnamon swirl flavor.

Freezing

To enjoy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes later, freeze them by layering parchment paper between each pancake in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for busy mornings when you want a quick treat.

Reheating

Reheat frozen pancakes in the toaster or microwave. For best results, thaw them for a few minutes at room temperature, then warm gently to avoid drying out the cinnamon swirl or cream cheese icing.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

For this recipe, it’s best to stick with regular or a reliable gluten-free all-purpose flour like King Arthur Measure for Measure. Almond flour tends to alter the texture and moisture content, so it won’t give the same fluffy pancake result.

Is there a vegan version of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

Yes! Use plant-based milk and butter, and choose a dairy-free cream cheese for the icing. The recipe translates wonderfully well to a vegan version with these simple swaps.

How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from burning?

Pouring a small layer of pancake batter on top of the cinnamon swirl helps keep it from burning while cooking. Also, cook on medium-low heat to ensure even, gentle cooking.

Can I make the cinnamon swirl ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cinnamon swirl mixture a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just warm it slightly to soften before piping onto the pancakes.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?

If cream cheese isn’t on hand, you can use a thick yogurt or mascarpone as a base for the icing, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are such a delightful treat that combine the nostalgic charm of cinnamon rolls with the ease of pancakes. Every bite feels like a little celebration of sweet, comforting flavors that brighten your entire morning. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved classic in your breakfast rotation. Once you do, mornings will never be the same again!

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