Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe You Need to Try

Anna Johnson

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-10T22:28:16.535Z

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a delicious mashup of two beloved breakfast items—fluffy pancakes and fragrant cinnamon rolls. The delightful aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as these pancakes cook is simply irresistible. Imagine waking up to the sweet scent of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla filling your home, signaling that something special is being prepared. These pancakes pack all the flavor of traditional cinnamon rolls but in a far simpler form. They are perfect when you’re in the mood for comfort food or just seeking a delightful start to your day. This recipe for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes will make your breakfast routine an amazing experience. Not only are they incredibly tasty, but they also bring a touch of whimsy to your morning. The soft and fluffy texture combined with the sweet cinnamon filling and creamy glaze makes every bite worth savoring. Imagine drizzling warm maple syrup over a stack of these beautiful pancakes—pure bliss! In this guide, you’ll discover why you’ll love making Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, how to prepare them quickly, and easy step-by-step instructions that even a novice chef can follow. With just the right blend of ingredients and techniques, you’ll recreate the magic of those beloved cinnamon rolls in pancake form. Let’s uncover the secrets to making these delightful breakfast treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are more than just a breakfast item; they are a delightful way to brighten your day. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
  1. Irresistible Flavor: The mix of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe simplifies traditional cinnamon rolls, making them perfect for busy mornings.
  3. Adaptable: You can customize the recipe with your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts or fresh fruits.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family breakfast or brunch with friends, everyone will be raving about these pancakes.
  5. Visual Appeal: The swirls of cinnamon and glaze give these pancakes a stunning look perfect for any brunch table.
  6. Comfort Food: Nothing beats starting your day with a plate of warm, cinnamon-infused goodness.
These attributes make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes an incredible choice for both special occasions and everyday meals. You’ll find that the joy of making and enjoying them together contributes to a heartfelt breakfast experience!

Preparation and Cooking Time

The beauty of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes lies in their quick preparation. Here’s the timing you can expect:
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
This means that within a relatively short period, you can serve a fantastic breakfast that feels luxurious without the fuss.

Ingredients

  • For the Pancakes:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Cinnamon Filling:
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
  • For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these delightful Cinnamon Roll Pancakes is simple if you follow these steps:
  1. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon with melted butter. Transfer the mixture to a zip-top bag and set aside.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are okay.
  5. Heat the Griddle: Preheat a non-stick griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little butter.
  6. Cook the Pancakes: Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Use a toothpick to poke a small hole in the tip of the zip-top bag with the cinnamon filling. Drizzle the cinnamon mixture in a swirl pattern over the pancake.
  7. Flip Carefully: After about 2-3 minutes, or when bubbles form on the surface, carefully flip the pancake. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Repeat: Continue to cook pancakes until all batter is used.
  9. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
  10. Serve: Stack the warm pancakes on a plate and drizzle with cream cheese glaze. Additional maple syrup is also recommended!
These simple steps guide you to create Cinnamon Roll Pancakes effortlessly. The result is a stack full of sweet, cinnamon goodness that makes for a satisfying breakfast.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, consider these delightful ideas to enhance the experience:
  1. Presentation: Stack the pancakes neatly on a plate, and drizzle with cream cheese glaze for a beautiful look.
  2. Accompaniments: Serve with fresh fruits such as strawberries or blueberries for additional brightness.
  3. Additional Toppings: Offer maple syrup, whipped cream, or even chopped pecans for guests to customize their pancakes.
  4. Layering Options: For a showstopper effect, try layering pancakes with a bit of extra glaze in between.
  5. Beverage Pairing: Complement with a hot cup of coffee or tea to create a warm, cozy atmosphere.
By adding these finishing touches, you elevate the pancake experience, making each bite even more delightful!

Additional Tips

  • Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a wonderful tanginess and richness to the pancakes. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute with milk and vinegar.
  • Preheat the Griddle: Make sure your cooking surface is well-heated before pouring in the batter. Proper temperature ensures a nice golden brown finish.
  • Control the Heat: If pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to ensure they cook through without burning.
  • Experiment with Spices: Beyond cinnamon, consider adding nutmeg or cardamom for an exciting flavor twist. These spices can elevate your cinnamon roll pancake experience.
  • Stay Consistent: Use a measuring cup to pour out the batter. This helps in making uniformly sized pancakes, which cook evenly.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative! Here are some delightful variations to try:
  1. Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the pancake batter for a deliciously sweet spin on the classic recipe.
  2. Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Incorporate diced apples sautéed with cinnamon into the batter for a comforting apple pie flavor.
  3. Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Swap out some of the buttermilk for pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice seasoning to create a fall-inspired treat.
  4. Vegan Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Substitute eggs with ground flaxseed mixed with water and use non-dairy milk and plant-based butter to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: These pancakes store well! Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for about 2-3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the pancakes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: To reheat, simply place the frozen pancakes in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or use a toaster for a crispy finish.

Special Equipment

You don’t need much to prepare these amazing pancakes, but having the right tools can make the process smoother:
  • Non-stick griddle or frying pan
  • Mixing bowls for dry and wet ingredients
  • Whisk for mixing
  • Zip-top bag for the cinnamon filling
  • Ladle or measuring cup for pouring batter
  • Spatula for flipping pancakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pancake batter in advance, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before using as it may thicken. What should I do if the pancakes come out flat? Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. These leavening agents are crucial for fluffy pancakes. How can I make the glaze thinner if it’s too thick? You can add a little more milk to the glaze until you reach your desired consistency. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? Yes, you can use regular milk, but consider adding a bit of vinegar or lemon juice to simulate the tanginess of buttermilk. Are these pancakes suitable for gluten-free diets? You can use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour to make these pancakes gluten-free.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the ultimate indulgence for breakfast lovers. With their fluffy texture, rich cinnamon flavor, and a delightful cream cheese glaze, they create a memorable breakfast experience. Not only are they easy to make, but their adaptability means you can try endless variations. This recipe promises a delicious treat that will leave you and your loved ones smiling.