Who doesn’t love the idea of combining two beloved breakfast favorites cinnamon rolls and pancakes? Cinnamon roll pancakes are a decadent fusion of fluffy pancakes topped with all the gooey, sweet goodness of cinnamon rolls. Imagine enjoying the warm, melt-in-your-mouth texture of pancakes, with swirls of cinnamon and sugar, and a drizzle of creamy icing. If this sounds like your idea of the perfect breakfast, you’re in the right place!
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cinnamon roll pancakes: from the ingredients to directions, tips, and tricks to make your pancakes the talk of the breakfast table. Ready to elevate your morning? Let’s dive in!
What Are Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?
Cinnamon roll pancakes are an indulgent twist on traditional pancakes. Instead of just plain pancakes, you get layers of cinnamon swirls and a sugary glaze, just like in a cinnamon roll. These pancakes have a soft, fluffy base, but with the warm, spicy-sweet flavor of cinnamon and brown sugar, all crowned with a drizzle of creamy icing. It’s the ultimate comfort breakfast that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pancake Batter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Icing Topping
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Make the Pancake Batter
Start by whisking together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones, and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine—this will keep your pancakes fluffy.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to make the cinnamon swirl mixture. Set this aside for later.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Place a griddle or spacious skillet on medium heat and let it warm up. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. Pour about ¼ cup of pancake batter onto the pan, forming small circles. Let the batter cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles start to form on the surface.
Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Swirl and Flip
Once the pancake is bubbly on top, take a spoon or piping bag and drizzle a small amount of the cinnamon swirl mixture in a spiral pattern on top of the pancake. Using a spatula, gently flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown on both sides.
Step 5: Make the Icing
To make the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. If needed, tweak the texture by pouring in a bit more milk.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Stack your cinnamon roll pancakes on a plate and drizzle generously with the icing topping. Serve warm, and enjoy the sweet, cinnamon-filled goodness!
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Use Buttermilk for Extra Fluffiness
For even fluffier pancakes, swap regular milk for buttermilk. The acidity in buttermilk helps activate the baking powder and makes the pancakes rise higher.
Don’t Overmix the Pancake Batter
Overmixing the pancake batter can lead to dense, tough pancakes. Stir until the ingredients are just combined, and don’t worry about a few lumps. The batter should be slightly thick.
Get the Right Pan Temperature
If your pan is too hot, the pancakes will burn before they’re fully cooked. If it’s too cold, they’ll turn out flat and undercooked. Medium heat is ideal for cooking pancakes.
Is it possible to prepare cinnamon roll pancakes in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pancake batter and cinnamon swirl ahead of time. Keep both in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to make the pancakes, just give the batter a quick stir, and you’re good to go.
You can also cook the pancakes in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm them up in a pan.
What Are Some Variations of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?
While the traditional cinnamon roll pancake is a sweet delight on its own, you can customize it with different flavors or ingredients to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Add some diced apples to the pancake batter and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Add mini chocolate chips to the pancake batter or sprinkle some on top before flipping.
- Nutty Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll pancakes are a breakfast game-changer. They’re a delicious mashup of two classics, offering the fluffy texture of pancakes and the gooey, cinnamon-sugar swirl of a cinnamon roll. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself on a lazy weekend morning, this breakfast will leave everyone smiling. Don’t forget to top them off with a rich cream cheese icing, and you’ll have a truly indulgent dish!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze cinnamon roll pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze the pancakes! Let them cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each pancake. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or toast them.
2. Can I use a different type of sugar for the cinnamon swirl?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use coconut sugar, maple sugar, or even stevia to replace the brown sugar.
3. Can I make the cinnamon swirl with something other than butter?
You can substitute butter with coconut oil or even applesauce for a dairy-free version.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to use a flour mix that includes xanthan gum to help the pancakes hold together.
5. Can I add a fruit topping instead of the icing?
Of course! Fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices make an excellent topping for a lighter option.
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll with fluffy pancakes. Swirled with a sweet cinnamon mixture and topped with a creamy glaze, they’re the perfect indulgent breakfast treat
Ingredients
For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir well to create a smooth paste. Set aside.
- Prepare the Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mix, stirring until they’re barely combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Prepare the pancakes: Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, then lightly coat it with butter or cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet. Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle a small amount of the cinnamon swirl mixture in a spiral pattern on top of the pancake batter. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. Continue with the rest of the batter and cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Make the Cream Cheese Glaze: While the pancakes cook, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Stack the pancakes on a plate and drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- You can also add a little extra cinnamon to the glaze if you prefer a more cinnamon-forward flavor.
- For a fun variation, try topping with chopped nuts, whipped cream, or even fresh fruit.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes (approx)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg