Cinnamon roll pancakes combine the best of two breakfast favorites: cinnamon rolls and pancakes. This recipe is perfect for mornings when you want something sweet and comforting. The warm cinnamon swirls and creamy glaze make these pancakes a hit with everyone.
Cinnamon roll pancakes are popular because they’re delicious and easy to make. The pancakes are soft and light, and the cinnamon swirl adds a sweet and spicy touch. Topped with a rich cream cheese glaze, these pancakes are a treat. Whether for a special brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast, this cinnamon roll pancake recipe will impress.
This guide will show you how to make the best cinnamon roll pancakes. From the ingredients to serving ideas and variations, you’ll find everything you need to create a perfect breakfast.
Ingredients
To make tasty cinnamon roll pancakes, you need the right ingredients. Each one plays a part in making these pancakes taste great.
Pancake Batter Ingredients
- Flour: All-purpose flour is ideal for these pancakes because it makes them light and fluffy. You can also try whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture may change.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These help the pancakes rise and stay airy.
- Sugar: A bit of sugar adds sweetness to the batter and helps the pancakes turn golden when cooked.
- Salt: Salt brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a slight tang and keeps the pancakes moist. It also helps make the pancakes fluffier.
- Eggs: Eggs add structure and richness to the batter, helping the pancakes hold their shape.
- Vanilla Extract: A little vanilla enhances the overall flavor, adding a touch of sweetness.
- Melted Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the batter, making the pancakes tender and tasty.
Cinnamon Swirl Ingredients
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is the base of the cinnamon swirl, providing sweetness and deep flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon gives the pancakes their warm, spicy flavor.
- Melted Butter: Melted butter helps make the cinnamon swirl smooth and easy to swirl into the pancakes.
Cream Cheese Glaze Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is the main ingredient for the glaze, adding a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens the glaze and makes it smooth.
- Milk: Milk adjusts the thickness of the glaze, making it easy to pour over the pancakes.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds a subtle flavor to the glaze that complements the cream cheese and cinnamon.
For those who might prefer a frosting option without cream cheese, you can check out this Cinnamon Rolls Frosting Without Cream Cheese recipe, which offers a delicious alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making cinnamon roll pancakes is simple if you follow each step. Here’s how to create this tasty breakfast treat.
Step 1: Preparing the Pancake Batter
Start by making the pancake batter. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix the batter; it should be slightly lumpy.
If you like thinner pancakes, add a bit more buttermilk. For thicker pancakes, reduce the liquid slightly. Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes while you prepare the cinnamon swirl.
Step 2: Making the Cinnamon Swirl
The cinnamon swirl makes these pancakes special. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until smooth. Put the mixture into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a small corner cut off. This makes it easy to swirl the mixture onto the pancakes.
The cinnamon swirl should be thick but still easy to pipe. If it’s too thick, add a little more melted butter. If it’s too runny, add a bit more brown sugar. The swirl should hold its shape when piped onto the pancakes.
Step 3: Cooking the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Once the batter starts to set, usually after 1-2 minutes, pipe the cinnamon swirl onto the pancake, starting from the center and swirling outwards.
Cook the pancake until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip the pancake carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown on both sides. The cinnamon swirl should caramelize slightly, creating a beautiful pattern on the pancake.
Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon swirl mixture. Keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven until you’re ready to serve.
Step 4: Making the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the pancakes are cooking, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract and enough milk to make the glaze pourable but thick enough to coat the pancakes.
If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more powdered sugar. For a tangier flavor, increase the amount of cream cheese. Adjust the milk to get the perfect consistency for drizzling over the pancakes.
Step 5: Serving the Pancakes
To serve, stack the cinnamon roll pancakes on a plate and drizzle them generously with the cream cheese glaze. The glaze will melt slightly over the warm pancakes, creating a delicious sauce that complements the cinnamon swirl. For extra indulgence, top the pancakes with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nuts.
For those who enjoy making various cinnamon-based treats, you might want to try this Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, which offers another delightful breakfast option.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon roll pancakes can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas to make your breakfast even more special.
Best Accompaniments for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Fresh Fruits: Adding fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or apple slices adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the pancakes. The natural sweetness of the fruit pairs well with the cinnamon and cream cheese glaze.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light, airy texture that contrasts with the dense, flavorful pancakes. It also adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.
- Maple Syrup: While the cream cheese glaze is delicious on its own, a drizzle of maple syrup can add another layer of sweetness. The combination of maple and cinnamon is classic and comforting.
Perfect Beverages
- Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or tea is the perfect companion to these sweet pancakes. The bitterness of coffee, in particular, balances the sweetness of the glaze and cinnamon swirl, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: The bright, citrusy flavor of orange juice provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pancakes. It’s also a great way to add some vitamins to your breakfast.
- Hot Chocolate: For a truly indulgent breakfast, pair your cinnamon roll pancakes with a cup of hot chocolate. The combination is rich and satisfying, perfect for a cozy morning treat.
With these serving suggestions, you can create a breakfast experience that’s both delicious and memorable.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
While cinnamon roll pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can also store and reheat them for later. Here’s how to keep them tasting great.
Storing Leftover Pancakes
To store leftover pancakes, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat the pancakes in the microwave or oven. If using the microwave, heat them in short bursts to avoid drying them out. If using the oven, place the pancakes on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Freezing Pancakes
If you’d like to freeze the pancakes for a quick breakfast option later, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pancakes to a ziplock bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat frozen pancakes, place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Be sure to cover them with foil in the oven to prevent them from drying out.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time in the morning, you can prepare the pancake batter and cinnamon swirl mixture the night before. Store them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, just give the batter a quick stir, and you’re ready to cook. The cream cheese glaze can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before drizzling it over the pancakes.
These storage and make-ahead tips ensure that you can enjoy cinnamon roll pancakes anytime, even on busy mornings.
Variations
Cinnamon roll pancakes are incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to customize them to suit your taste. Here are some variations to try.
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
For those who need to avoid gluten, you can easily make gluten-free cinnamon roll pancakes by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend you choose is suitable for baking and includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to help mimic the texture of regular flour. The rest of the ingredients and instructions remain the same.
Vegan Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
To make vegan cinnamon roll pancakes, replace the buttermilk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as a substitute for the egg. For the melted butter, use a vegan butter alternative. The cream cheese glaze can be made with vegan cream cheese and plant-based milk.
Healthier Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider reducing the sugar in both the batter and the cinnamon swirl. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to add fiber and nutrients. Adding oats or flaxseed to the batter can boost the fiber content and make the pancakes more filling.
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
For a sweeter twist, add chocolate chips to the pancake batter before cooking. The chocolate chips will melt as the pancakes cook, adding rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon swirl. You can also sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top before serving for an indulgent treat.
These variations allow you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, making cinnamon roll pancakes even more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll pancakes are the ultimate breakfast treat, combining the best of cinnamon rolls and pancakes into one delicious dish. With the right ingredients and simple preparation, you can create pancakes that are fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite.
Remember to serve them with your favorite toppings and beverages for a complete breakfast experience. And with the storage and make-ahead tips provided, you can enjoy cinnamon roll pancakes even on busy mornings. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make the best cinnamon roll pancakes you’ve ever tasted.
Frequently Asked Questions “FAQs”
To keep the cinnamon swirl from hardening, make sure it’s the right consistency before piping it onto the pancakes. It should be thick but still pourable. If it hardens in the piping bag, you can warm it slightly to soften it.
The best way to reheat cinnamon roll pancakes is in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. This method helps maintain the pancakes’ texture and flavor.
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This will provide the tanginess needed for the recipe.
Yes, you can make vegan cinnamon roll pancakes by using plant-based milk, flax eggs, and vegan butter. The cream cheese glaze can also be made vegan with plant-based cream cheese and milk.
Yes, cinnamon roll pancakes freeze well. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To make gluten-free cinnamon roll pancakes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.