Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a tasty twist on breakfast favorites! These fluffy pancakes are swirled with sweet cinnamon filling and topped with creamy glaze, making each bite a delightful treat.
Honestly, who wouldn’t love pancakes that taste like cinnamon rolls? I love stacking them high and drizzling extra glaze on top—because why not? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the pancakes. You can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste but expect a heavier texture. Gluten-free all-purpose flour works too! Just make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar is perfect, but you can swap in coconut sugar or honey for a different sweetness. Just remember that honey will change the moisture level slightly, so adjust the other liquids if needed.
Milk: I recommend whole milk for richness, but any milk works! Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk are great alternatives for dairy-free diets.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds that classic flavor. If you want a unique twist, try using cinnamon and nutmeg together, or even pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal variation.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over the salt in the recipe. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or any vegetable oil. Just melt it before use.
How Do I Get the Perfect Swirl in My Pancakes?
The cinnamon swirl is one of the most exciting parts! To achieve a beautiful swirl, follow these tips:
- Mix the cinnamon filling gently to avoid clumping too much. A smooth paste is easier to swirl.
- As you pour the pancake batter, make sure the surface is hot enough. This helps the filling set quickly and keeps it from sinking.
- Use a toothpick or skewer in gentle circular motions to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter—don’t overdo it; just a few swirls are enough!
- Watch for bubbles on the edges; this means it’s time to flip!
With a little practice, you’ll have those perfect cinnamon swirls in no time!
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional:
- Maple syrup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll enjoy around 30-35 minutes total from start to finish, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Pancake Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined; don’t worry if there are a few lumps—it’s okay not to overmix!
2. Make Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to make the sweet swirl mixture. Set this aside for later; you want it to be ready when you start cooking those pancakes!
3. Cook Pancakes with Cinnamon Swirl:
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Using a spoon, add a little of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of the batter. Then, take a toothpick or skewer and gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the pancake batter in cute circular designs. Cook until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set—this should take around 2 to 3 minutes. Carefully flip the pancake over and cook for about another 2 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you want it a bit thinner, just add a bit more milk until it reaches the consistency you like for drizzling.
5. Serve:
Stack those delicious cinnamon roll pancakes on plates, drizzle generously with the glaze, and add some maple syrup if you’re feeling extra indulgent! Enjoy your warm, fluffy pancakes right away for the best taste!
This recipe yields tender pancakes imbued with a cinnamon sugar swirl and topped with a classic vanilla glaze, perfectly mimicking the flavors of a cinnamon roll breakfast in pancake form. Enjoy your sweet creation!
Can I Make These Pancakes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the batter and the cinnamon swirl mixture in advance, and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just give the batter a quick stir and cook the pancakes fresh!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or microwave until warmed through. Drizzle with a bit of glaze or maple syrup to freshen them up!
Can I Freeze These Pancakes?
Absolutely! Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the toaster or microwave.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the pancake batter and glaze. Start with less and adjust to taste! For a unique flavor, consider using maple sugar or coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar in the batter.
