Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Why Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a Game-Changer
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the best of both worlds—fluffy, warm buttermilk pancakes and the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. If you've ever experienced the rush of pancake mornings but craved something a bit more indulgent, these pancakes are about to become your new favorite.
Imagine sinking your teeth into soft pancakes swirled with a rich filling of cinnamon and brown sugar, paired with a drizzle of cream cheese icing that really ties it all together. Not only do they look impressive when served, but they’re also surprisingly quick to make—taking less time than traditional cinnamon rolls.
Perfect for any time of the day, from cozy breakfasts to brunches with friends, Cinnamon Roll Pancakes offer a delightful twist on your morning routine. Plus, this recipe is adaptable! Feel free to add your own toppings, like fresh fruits or nuts, or swap in Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a savory side. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you! For more delicious pancake ideas, check out Serious Eats or visit Bon Appétit.
Get ready to impress yourself and others with these delectable treats!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
When you’re ready to whip up a batch of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, it’s essential to have all the right ingredients on hand. This delightful twist on classic pancakes combines familiar flavors into a delicious breakfast treat.
Essential Ingredients for the Pancakes
To create the base of your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, you’ll need:
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar (to make buttermilk)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
These ingredients come together to form fluffy, mouthwatering pancakes.
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
Now, let’s make those pancakes truly special with a cinnamon swirl filling! Gather the following:
- 5 ½ tablespoons packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Mix these to create a sweet and enticing ribbon of flavor through your pancakes.
Cream Cheese Icing Components
To top it all off, you’ll want a rich cream cheese icing. You’ll need:
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¾ cup confectioners' sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
This icing not only adds a delightful finish to your dish but also enhances the cinnamon roll experience.
By having these ingredients ready, you’re set to create an incredible batch of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes that will impress your family and friends! For more tips and tricks, check out this guide on pancake mixing techniques. Happy cooking!
Preparing Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Creating Cinnamon Roll Pancakes at home can be a delightful and rewarding experience. These fluffy, sweet pancakes offer the comforting flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls but come together in a fraction of the time. Let’s dive into how to prepare these mouthwatering treats step by step!
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
First things first, you need all the right ingredients to get started. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious pancakes:
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Pancakes:
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¾ cup milk
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2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons white sugar
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 large egg
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
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Cinnamon Swirl Filling:
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5 ½ tablespoons packed brown sugar
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¼ cup butter, melted
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1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
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Cream Cheese Icing:
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¼ cup butter, softened
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2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
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¾ cup confectioners' sugar
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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cooking spray
Create the Soured Milk Mixture
To achieve that perfect pancake texture, you’ll need to create a soured milk mixture. Start by combining your milk and white distilled vinegar in a bowl. Let this sit for about five minutes until it thickens and appears slightly curdled. This step is crucial, as a soured milk mixture helps create tender pancakes (for more on this chemistry, check out Serious Eats).
Mix Your Dry Ingredients and Combine
While your milk mixture is resting, take a separate bowl and whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Once combined, add your wet ingredients to the dry mix, including the egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract from the milk mixture. Stir gently until the batter is just combined—don’t worry about a few lumps!
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. Pour this mixture into a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate it for about ten minutes. This chilling time allows the filling to thicken and make it easier to swirl into your pancakes.
Cook the Pancakes to Perfection
Preheat your griddle or skillet over medium heat and add some cooking spray. For each pancake, pour approximately ⅔ cup of the batter onto the griddle. As bubbles begin to form (usually after 2 to 3 minutes), take your cinnamon swirl filling bag and cut off a corner. Drizzle the filling over the pancake, careful to leave space around the edges. Flip the pancake and cook until lightly browned, about another 2 to 3 minutes.
Assemble with the Cream Cheese Icing
While your pancakes are cooking, it’s time to whip up the cream cheese icing. Combine softened butter and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl, heating it until fully melted. Stir in confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this dreamy icing over your finished pancakes, and voilà—your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are ready to enjoy!
Feel free to customize or add fresh fruit, or serve them with Turkey Bacon for a delightful brunch. With these step-by-step instructions, you’re well on your way to impressing friends or simply treating yourself to a sweet breakfast!

Variations on Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Ready to take your cinnamon roll pancakes to the next level? Try adding some cozy pumpkin spice! Start by mixing 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice into your pancake batter. For an extra fall touch, swap out half the flour with pumpkin puree. The result? Fluffy, spiced pancakes that taste like autumn on a plate. Perfect for brunch gatherings or chilly mornings!
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Craving something a bit more indulgent? Incorporate chocolate chips into your cinnamon roll pancakes for a sweet surprise in every bite. Simply fold in half a cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter before cooking. As they melt and blend with the cinnamon swirl, they create a decadent treat that will satisfy any chocolate lover. Finish with a drizzle of icing, and you’re in for a deliciously sweet experience!
For more variations or ideas, you can check out Inspired Taste for creative toppings and flavor combinations.
Cooking tips and notes for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
How to achieve the perfect fluffy texture
To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are delightfully fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter. A few lumps are perfectly fine! Additionally, separating your dry and wet ingredients and combining them just until moistened creates that airy pancake texture we all love. Remember to let the batter rest for a few minutes; this allows the baking powder to activate, giving your pancakes extra lift.
Best practices for swirling the filling
For that beautiful cinnamon swirl, use a piping bag or a resealable bag with a corner snipped off. This helps you control the flow of the filling easily. When swirling, keep the filling about an inch from the pancake edges—this prevents it from burning while cooking. Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if your first attempt isn’t magazine-worthy; the taste will still be amazing!

Serving suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Pairing ideas for breakfast or brunch
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are delightful on their own, but pairing them enhances your meal! Consider serving with:
- Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a savory contrast.
- Fresh fruit, like berries or banana slices, for a pop of freshness.
- A dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for added creaminess.
- A warm beverage like coffee or a spiced chai latte to complement the cinnamon flavors.
These pairings will create a rounded, satisfying breakfast experience that will have you looking forward to brunch!
Plating tips for an appealing presentation
Presentation matters, especially when serving Cinnamon Roll Pancakes! Here are some simple tips:
- Stack your pancakes neatly and drizzle the cream cheese icing on top for a drizzle effect.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few berries for color.
- Use a wide plate to give your pancakes some space, making them the star of the show.
- Optional: add a maple syrup side for guests to customize their sweetness.
A beautiful plate not only looks inviting but elevates the entire eating experience!
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Preparation Time
Gather your ingredients and get those pancakes started with a prep time of about 30 minutes. This includes mixing the batter, preparing the cinnamon swirl filling, and making that delicious cream cheese icing. It's a great opportunity to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the process.
Cooking Time
Once you’re all set, cooking these delightful Cinnamon Roll Pancakes takes approximately 10 minutes. You'll be flipping those golden circles in no time, creating a delightful meal that’s bound to impress.
Total Time
Overall, you’re looking at a total of 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast for dinner!
Enjoy creating this sweet treat that combines the joy of pancakes with the warmth of cinnamon rolls. For more delicious breakfast ideas, you can check out Allrecipes.
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
When indulging in Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, it's good to know what you're savoring. Here's a quick look at their nutritional content to help you enjoy these delicious treats mindfully.
Calories per Pancake
Each pancake contains approximately 316 calories. This makes it a rich, satisfying option for breakfast or brunch, while still leaving room for your favorite toppings!
Protein Content
You'll get about 4 grams of protein per pancake, which can help keep you full and energized throughout your day. It’s a comforting treat that pairs well with a protein-rich side like turkey bacon or scrambled eggs.
Sodium Levels
With 431 mg of sodium in each pancake, it's a wise idea to balance your meal with low-sodium options. Think fresh fruits or a side salad to complement this sweet delight.
For more details about a balanced diet, you might want to check out resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Enjoy your pancakes!
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
How can I store leftover pancakes?
If you find yourself with extra Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, you're in luck—they store beautifully! Simply place the cooled pancakes in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Can I make the batter in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day ahead of time. Just mix and store it in the fridge, covered tightly. Before cooking, give the batter a gentle stir, as it may thicken slightly overnight. For the freshest flavor and texture, try to use the batter within 24 hours.
What can I substitute in the recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you're looking for alternatives, here are a few easy swaps:
- Gluten-free Flour: You can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Options: Substitute almond milk or oat milk for buttermilk.
- Egg-Free: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan option.
Feel free to get creative and customize your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes to suit your dietary needs! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out this helpful article for ideas.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the perfect mix of sweetness and comfort, bringing the beloved flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls to your breakfast table in just a fraction of the time. Whether it's a weekend brunch or a busy weekday, they are sure to delight everyone. Enjoy every fluffy, gooey bite!

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Equipment
- griddle or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- microwave-safe bowl
- resealable bag
Ingredients
Pancakes
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl Filling
- 5 ½ tablespoons packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Icing
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 2 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- ¾ cup confectioners' sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- cooking spray
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients.
- Stir milk and vinegar together in a bowl; set aside until milk 'sours', about 5 minutes.
- Mix flour, white sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a separate bowl.
- Whisk egg, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract into milk mixture.
- Slowly pour milk mixture into flour mixture while whisking constantly until batter is just moistened and evenly mixed. The batter might have some lumps which is fine.
- Combine brown sugar, ¼ cup melted butter, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Place a 1-quart resealable bag into a glass or cup. Pour cinnamon mixture into the bag; refrigerate until filling is thick and spreadable, about 10 minutes.
- Mix ¼ cup softened butter and cream cheese together in a microwave-safe bowl; heat in microwave for 40 seconds. Stir mixture with a whisk or fork until smooth. Continue heating in microwave and stirring until mixture is completely melted. Stir confectioners' sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract into cream cheese mixture until icing is smooth.
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray. Pour about ⅔ cup batter into the center of griddle. Cook pancake until bubbles start to appear, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Cut 1 corner off the center of the bag with filling. Swirl filling over pancake, leaving enough space around edges that filling doesn't touch the griddle.
- Flip pancake and cook until other side is lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Drizzle icing over pancake; remove from pan and set aside. Repeat with remaining ingredients, wiping the pan/griddle with a clean, damp cloth in between each pancake to remove any excess cinnamon mixture, and spraying the griddle with cooking spray between each pancake. Doing this will prevent the residual mixture from scorching as you cook the next batch of pancakes.
- Enjoy!





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