Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the best of two beloved breakfast treats into one indulgent dish. The rich, cinnamon-swirled pancake layers are enhanced by a velvety cream cheese glaze, making each bite irresistible.
Perfect for lazy weekends or special mornings, these pancakes offer a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. The comforting warmth of cinnamon filling and creamy glaze will leave everyone craving more.
With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, Cinnamon Roll Pancakes bring the cozy, delicious flavors of cinnamon rolls right to your breakfast table—no baking required!
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes – Ingredients
Pancake Batter
The foundation of these cinnamon roll-inspired pancakes is a simple blend of flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and eggs. These essentials create the perfect fluffy texture that balances the rich swirl of cinnamon and the creamy glaze.
Cinnamon Filling
Butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon come together to form a fragrant, melt-in-your-mouth filling. This trio swirls beautifully within the pancake, infusing each bite with a warm, comforting sweetness.
Cream Cheese Glaze
A luscious glaze made from butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla brings a rich, tangy sweetness that ties the entire dish together, giving each pancake a decadent finish.
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes – Enhancements
Recipe Tips
- Control Cinnamon Filling Consistency
To ensure the cinnamon filling creates the perfect swirl, adjust the texture by melting the butter properly. If the filling becomes too runny, it may spread too much in the batter. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape when squeezed out of the baggie. If needed, refrigerate the filling for a few minutes to firm it up before using. - Perfect Pancake Texture
For pancakes with the ideal fluffy texture, avoid over-mixing the batter. Gently whisk the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense pancakes. It’s okay if there are a few lumps left in the batter, they will dissolve during cooking. - Managing Pancake Temperature
Cooking pancakes on medium-low heat ensures the inside cooks through without burning the outside. If the skillet is too hot, the pancakes might brown too quickly, leaving the center raw. Be patient and allow the pancakes to cook slowly for the best texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Bacon or Sausage
Crispy bacon or savory sausage pairs perfectly with the sweetness of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. The salty, smoky flavors offer a delicious contrast to the rich, cinnamon-sugar taste, creating a balanced breakfast or brunch plate. The texture of the meat also adds a nice crunch next to the soft pancakes. - Fresh Fruit
A side of fresh fruit like berries, bananas, or apple slices adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, decadent pancakes. The natural sweetness and slight acidity from fruits like strawberries or blueberries help balance the richness of the cinnamon filling and cream cheese glaze. - Coffee or Fresh Juice
A hot cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice complements the pancakes wonderfully. Coffee enhances the sweetness and adds a rich depth to each bite, while orange juice provides a bright, tangy contrast, making it the perfect drink for breakfast or brunch.
FAQ
- Can I use store-bought pancake mix?
Yes! You can use a box pancake mix as a shortcut for this recipe. Just follow the directions on the mix package, and then proceed with adding the cinnamon swirl and cream cheese glaze for that homemade touch. - How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until they’re heated through. - Can I make the cinnamon filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cinnamon filling the night before and refrigerate it in a sealed bag or container. Just make sure to warm it up slightly before using it in the pancake batter. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well for pancakes. Be sure to check the packaging for any specific instructions on substitutions for baking powder and other ingredients.
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Ingredients
- Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
- Cinnamon Filling:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
- In a medium bowl, blend the melted butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon together until fully incorporated. Transfer this mixture into a small plastic bag and set it aside.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small pan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, whisk in the cream cheese, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth. Remove from heat and set aside until ready to drizzle over the pancakes.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and oil. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and lightly coat with non-stick spray. Pour approximately 1/2 cup of pancake batter into the skillet, allowing it to spread into a round shape. Wait for bubbles to form on the surface before snipping a small corner of the cinnamon filling bag and creating a swirl pattern in the center of the pancake. Be cautious not to place the filling too close to the edges. Once the pancakes are golden brown on both sides, flip them using a wide spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter. If necessary, warm the glaze before drizzling it over the finished pancakes.
