If you adore the cozy, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but crave the fluffy, stackable joy of pancakes, then this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is about to become your new breakfast obsession. Imagine fluffy pancakes swirled with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, delivering all the warmth and sweetness of a classic cinnamon roll but in an easy-to-make, weekend-friendly form. This recipe layers rich cinnamon aroma with buttery goodness, making each bite feel like a little morning celebration that’s perfect for family breakfasts or whenever you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe. Each element here plays a starring role in delivering incredible flavor and texture, from the fluffy base to the sweet, cinnamon-filled swirl.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This gives the pancakes their tender, fluffy structure.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise tall and fluffy.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps everything in harmony.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings that signature warm, spicy note you expect from cinnamon rolls.
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk): Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure.
- 2 tbsp melted butter: Introduces a velvety richness that makes pancakes irresistible.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: When mixed with cinnamon, it creates that luscious cinnamon roll filling swirl.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl. This mixture forms the flavorful pancake base, and mixing them well ensures the cinnamon is evenly distributed for consistent warmth in every bite.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. This wet mix gives your pancakes that tender texture and rich taste. When combined gently with the dry ingredients, you’ll get a perfectly balanced batter that’s ready to cook.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until evenly combined. Transfer this mixture to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off. This step is key to creating the signature cinnamon swirl inside each pancake, which will melt into a sweet, gooey center as they cook.
Step 4: Cook and Swirl the Pancakes
Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat and grease it lightly. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface, then quickly pipe a swirl of the cinnamon-sugar filling on top. The trick is to do this before bubbles appear on the surface so the swirl sinks just right, creating those delightful cinnamon roll spirals in each pancake.
Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
Cook the pancake until you see firm edges and bubbles burst on the surface, then carefully flip it over. Continue cooking until the other side turns a beautiful golden brown. The result is a stack of pancakes with a soft center and a caramelized, cinnamon-swirled inside that tastes like a warm hug.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe to the next level, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a creamy vanilla glaze or maple syrup on top. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft, sweet pancakes.
Side Dishes
Serve these pancakes with a side of fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or warm apple compote to add a refreshing and tart counterpoint. Crispy bacon or sausage links also work wonderfully if you like a savory accompaniment balancing the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your pancakes with a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese frosting between layers for an indulgent twist. For a brunch crowd, consider making mini pancake stacks on skewers, alternating swirls and plain pancakes for a playful presentation that’s both charming and easy to grab.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled down before storing to keep their texture soft and delicious.
Freezing
These pancakes freeze beautifully. Cool completely, then stack with parchment paper between each and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making them perfect for quick breakfasts that still feel special.
Reheating
Reheat pancakes gently in a toaster or on a skillet over low heat to warm through without drying out. You can also microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds, giving you that fresh-baked feeling in moments.
FAQs
Can I use milk alternatives in this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work just as well as whole milk, keeping the pancakes moist and tasty while accommodating dietary preferences.
How do I keep the cinnamon swirl from spreading too much?
Piping the cinnamon-sugar mixture onto the pancake after pouring the batter helps it hold its shape better. Work quickly before bubbles form on the batter surface to ensure clear, beautiful swirls.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can enjoy these pancakes without gluten, though texture might slightly vary.
Is it possible to add frosting like on traditional cinnamon rolls?
Definitely! A simple cream cheese glaze drizzled over the warm pancakes adds an irresistibly rich finish, bringing that cinnamon roll vibe to your pancake stack.
What if I want to make a bigger batch?
This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe scales up nicely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and cook in batches, keeping pancakes warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about enjoying the best of two beloved breakfast treats wrapped into one. This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is a delightful way to start any morning with a smile on your face and warmth in your belly. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how easy it is to whip up these sweet, swirly pancakes that feel like a special occasion every time.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 pancakes, serves 4
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the fluffy texture of classic pancakes with the sweet, spiced swirl of cinnamon roll filling. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, they feature a delicious cinnamon and brown sugar filling piped into the batter as it cooks on the griddle, creating a delightful cinnamon roll effect in each pancake.
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
Filling
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (used for filling)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Stir until all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Batter: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with an additional 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to create the sweet cinnamon filling. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag for easy swirl application.
- Preheat and Grease Griddle: Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pancakes with Cinnamon Swirl: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated griddle for each pancake. Before bubbles form on the surface, pipe the cinnamon sugar filling onto the batter, swirling it gently to create a cinnamon roll effect.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: When the edges of the pancake start to set and become firm, carefully flip it using a spatula. Cook the second side until golden brown and the pancake is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the griddle and serve warm with maple syrup or your favorite toppings for a perfect cinnamon roll-inspired breakfast treat.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use a piping bag or a zip lock bag with a small cut corner to swirl the cinnamon sugar filling easily.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep pancakes fluffy.
- If you prefer, add a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk to mimic classic cinnamon roll icing.
- Cook pancakes on medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning.
