Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Transform your morning breakfast into a sweet, indulgent treat with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. These pancakes combine the soft, fluffy texture of classic pancakes with the irresistible flavors of cinnamon rolls. Swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, these pancakes are perfect for weekends, brunch, or any special morning when you want to impress your family or friends.

Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that require yeast and hours of rising, these pancakes come together quickly while still giving you that iconic cinnamon roll flavor. The combination of fluffy pancakes, buttery cinnamon filling, and creamy glaze creates a decadent breakfast experience that’s hard to resist.

Whether you use a homemade pancake batter or a mix, this recipe is approachable and produces consistent, delicious results. With optional tweaks and variations, you can customize it to suit your taste and make mornings extra special.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (may need to add a little more if batter is too thick)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large egg, beaten

Optional: Use pancake batter from a mix (Bisquick works well)

Cinnamon Filling

• 1/3 cup butter, melted
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Method

Preparing the Pancake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and beaten egg. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk until you reach a pourable consistency.

Making the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth and fully combined. Set aside.

Cooking the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour a small amount of pancake batter onto the skillet to form individual pancakes. Drizzle a spoonful of the cinnamon filling over each pancake and use a toothpick or skewer to swirl it gently into the batter, creating a marbled cinnamon roll effect. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter and filling.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the glaze is silky and pourable.

Serving the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Stack the pancakes on a plate, drizzle generously with the cream cheese glaze, and serve warm. These pancakes pair beautifully with fresh fruit, syrup, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for a decadent breakfast experience.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

1. Swirling technique: Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the cinnamon filling gently into the batter. Avoid overmixing to maintain visible cinnamon streaks.
2. Consistent pancake size: Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour batter onto the skillet for evenly sized pancakes.
3. Temperature control: Cook over medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the pancakes to cook through.
4. Make-ahead: You can prepare the cinnamon filling and glaze ahead of time for quick weekday breakfasts.
5. Custom variations: Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or drizzle maple syrup for extra indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a pancake mix instead of making batter from scratch?
Yes! Pancake mixes like Bisquick work perfectly and save time while still producing fluffy results.

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the pancakes ahead, stack them with parchment paper in between, and refrigerate or freeze. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven and add the glaze just before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, milk with plant-based milk, and cream cheese with a vegan alternative.

How can I make the cinnamon swirl more defined?
Drizzle the cinnamon filling onto the raw pancake batter and gently swirl with a toothpick or skewer. Avoid overmixing, which can blend the swirl into the pancake.

Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Fresh berries, sliced bananas, nuts, or extra cinnamon sugar make wonderful additions.

Print

These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are an easy, indulgent breakfast that combines the best of pancakes and cinnamon rolls into one mouthwatering dish. Soft, fluffy, and full of cinnamon-sugar goodness, they are guaranteed to become a favorite for weekend mornings, brunches, or special occasions.