Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: The Ultimate Sweet Breakfast

Imagine waking up to the warm scent of cinnamon filling your kitchen, and then biting into a fluffy pancake with a cinnamon-sugar swirl that’s caramelized to perfection. That’s the magic of cinnamon roll pancakes. These indulgent treats combine the best of both worlds: the rich, sweet flavor of cinnamon rolls and the light, fluffy texture of pancakes. Whether you’re preparing a special breakfast or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, these pancakes will leave you craving more.

What Are Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

Cinnamon roll pancakes are the ultimate breakfast indulgence. These pancakes are infused with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl that’s similar to the filling of a classic cinnamon roll. What makes them even better is the sweet glaze that’s drizzled over the top, making each bite a warm, gooey, cinnamon-filled delight. The cinnamon-sugar swirl melts into the pancake as it cooks, creating pockets of sweet, gooey goodness inside each fluffy layer.

These pancakes are not your regular breakfast fare. The soft, fluffy texture of the pancakes pairs perfectly with the cinnamon swirl, delivering the comforting taste of a cinnamon roll without all the fuss. Perfect for lazy weekends, special occasions, or whenever you’re in the mood for something indulgent, cinnamon roll pancakes are guaranteed to please.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes (Step-by-Step Guide)

Making cinnamon roll pancakes is surprisingly easy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a stack of pancakes that taste like dessert but are perfectly suited for breakfast. Follow this easy guide to make your own cinnamon roll pancakes at home!

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
All-purpose flour	1 1/2 cups	Sifted
Granulated sugar	1 tbsp	Adds sweetness to the pancake batter
Baking powder	1 tsp	Helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy
Baking soda	1/2 tsp	Works with buttermilk to help the pancakes rise
Salt	1/2 tsp	Balances the sweetness
Buttermilk	1 cup	Adds tenderness and flavor to the pancakes
Egg	1 large	Binds the ingredients together
Butter	2 tbsp	Adds richness to the batter
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Enhances the flavor of the pancakes
Brown sugar	1/4 cup	Used for the cinnamon-sugar swirl
Ground cinnamon	1 tbsp	Gives the pancakes their signature flavor

Instructions

1. Make the pancake batter:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Slowly combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. It’s okay if the batter has some lumps—it’ll make the pancakes fluffier.
2. Prepare the cinnamon swirl:
   In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This will form the cinnamon-sugar swirl that will make your pancakes extra special.
3. Cook the pancakes:
   Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet. Before flipping, sprinkle a bit of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the surface of the pancake in a spiral. Once bubbles appear on the surface, flip the pancake carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
4. Make the glaze:
   While the pancakes are cooking, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Whisk until smooth and pourable. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
5. Serve:
   Stack the pancakes on a plate and drizzle with the glaze. Serve immediately while warm for a delicious breakfast.

Why Does the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Make a Difference in Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

The cinnamon sugar swirl is the heart and soul of cinnamon roll pancakes. It transforms the pancakes from ordinary to extraordinary by infusing them with that sweet, aromatic cinnamon flavor that’s typically found in cinnamon rolls. The swirl is the key to making these pancakes taste like a cinnamon roll in every bite.

As the pancakes cook, the cinnamon-sugar mixture melts into the batter, creating pockets of gooey sweetness that resemble the filling of a cinnamon roll. The swirl also adds a wonderful texture, with slightly crispy edges and a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the softness of the pancake itself. Without the cinnamon-sugar swirl, you would have a regular pancake, but with it, you have a sweet, indulgent breakfast that’s sure to impress.

Can You Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Ahead of Time?

If you’re preparing for a busy morning or want to get a head start, you’ll be happy to know that cinnamon roll pancakes can be made ahead of time! Once cooked, these pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer and easily reheated when you’re ready to serve them.

1. Storing in the fridge: After cooking the pancakes, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for 20-30 seconds or warm them on a skillet for a minute or two.
2. Freezing for later: If you want to keep the pancakes for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Place the pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the pancakes to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove. The pancakes will taste just as fresh as when they were first made.
3. Prepare the batter ahead of time: To save even more time in the morning, you can prepare the pancake batter and cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture the night before. Store the batter in the fridge, and in the morning, just cook the pancakes as usual. The glaze can also be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

While cinnamon roll pancakes are a simple and delicious treat, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some things to watch out for when making your pancakes:

1. Overmixing the batter: One of the biggest mistakes when making pancakes is overmixing the batter. Overmixing causes the gluten in the flour to develop, leading to dense, tough pancakes. To avoid this, mix the ingredients until just combined. It’s perfectly fine if there are a few lumps in the batter.
2. Cooking at too high a temperature: Cooking pancakes at too high of a heat will cause them to burn on the outside while staying raw inside. Use medium heat for a steady cook that will help the pancakes rise properly without burning the cinnamon-sugar swirl.
3. Using too much cinnamon-sugar: While it’s tempting to add a lot of cinnamon-sugar to the pancakes, too much can make flipping difficult and overpower the flavor. Use a light hand when adding the cinnamon-sugar swirl so it enhances the flavor without overwhelming the batter.
4. Not letting the batter rest: Allowing the batter to rest for about 10-15 minutes helps it thicken slightly and allows the flour to fully absorb the wet ingredients. This results in a fluffier pancake. Resting also allows the leavening agents to work more effectively, making the pancakes light and airy.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure that your cinnamon roll pancakes turn out perfect every time!

Can You Customize Your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

One of the best parts of making cinnamon roll pancakes is that they are highly customizable. You can tweak the ingredients or add toppings to make them even more delicious or tailor them to your specific tastes. Here are a few ideas to get creative with your pancakes:

Toppings and Add-ins

• Fresh Fruit: While cinnamon roll pancakes are already indulgent, adding fresh fruit like berries, bananas, or apples can add freshness and a slight tartness that balances the sweetness. The fruit can be added as a topping, or you can mix it into the pancake batter for a fruity twist.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. This adds richness and a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the warm, cinnamon-spiced pancakes.
• Nuts: Chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds, can be sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft, fluffy pancakes. You can also mix them into the batter for added flavor and texture.
• Chocolate Chips: Want to make your cinnamon roll pancakes even more decadent? Add some chocolate chips to the batter. The chocolate will melt into the pancakes, creating gooey pockets of chocolate that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
• Maple Syrup: A classic topping, maple syrup adds sweetness and enhances the pancake experience. You can also try flavored syrups like caramel or vanilla to take the flavor up a notch.

Flour Substitutes for Healthier Pancakes

• Whole Wheat Flour: If you want a slightly healthier version of your cinnamon roll pancakes, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour adds fiber, which makes the pancakes a bit more filling. The flavor is slightly nuttier, but it complements the cinnamon swirl perfectly.
• Gluten-Free Flour: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to look for one that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to help hold the pancakes together. The texture might be slightly different, but they will still have that cinnamon roll-like flavor.
• Almond Flour: For a low-carb option, try almond flour. It’s denser than all-purpose flour but adds a rich, nutty flavor to your pancakes. You may need to adjust the recipe slightly (perhaps adding a bit more liquid) since almond flour behaves differently in pancakes.

By getting creative with toppings and ingredient swaps, you can make cinnamon roll pancakes fit any taste or dietary need.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

• Sweet Potato Muffin Recipe: A soft and spiced morning treat.
• Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe: A rich and indulgent pairing.
• Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes: A tangy and creamy complement.
• Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats: A wholesome and cinnamon-infused side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why are restaurant pancakes so fluffy?

Restaurant pancakes are often fluffier because they use a combination of baking powder and buttermilk. The baking powder creates bubbles, which make the pancakes rise. Buttermilk adds moisture and acidity, helping the batter become light and airy. For cinnamon roll pancakes, the same principle applies! If you want fluffy pancakes, use these key ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter for the perfect texture.

How to make Kylie Jenner pancakes?

Kylie Jenner pancakes are famous for their extra fluffiness and delicious texture. To make them, mix flour, baking powder, and sugar with milk, eggs, and butter. The secret is using a good amount of butter and letting the batter sit before cooking. For cinnamon roll pancakes, just add a cinnamon-sugar swirl to the pancake batter and top with a glaze for a perfect treat that Kylie would approve of!

What is the difference between a morning bun and a cinnamon roll?

Both morning buns and cinnamon rolls are delicious pastries with cinnamon, but there are some key differences. A morning bun is typically made with puff pastry, making it flakier and lighter. A cinnamon roll, on the other hand, is made from yeasted dough, which results in a denser, softer texture. While cinnamon roll pancakes are inspired by the flavors of a cinnamon roll, they provide the fluffy, pancake experience everyone loves.

What is IHOP Cinnastack pancakes?

IHOP’s Cinnastack pancakes are a decadent treat consisting of fluffy pancakes layered with cinnamon swirls, topped with cream cheese icing and whipped cream. These pancakes are a spin on the classic cinnamon roll pancakes, combining the flavors of cinnamon rolls with the lightness of pancakes. The sweet glaze adds richness, making them a popular choice for those with a sweet tooth looking to enjoy a dessert-like breakfast!

Conclusion: Why Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a Must-Try

If you’ve never tried cinnamon roll pancakes, it’s time to treat yourself to this heavenly combination of two beloved breakfast classics. These pancakes are fluffy, sweet, and indulgent, with a warm cinnamon swirl and a decadent glaze. Perfect for any occasion, cinnamon roll pancakes are guaranteed to impress your family and friends or simply provide a comforting breakfast for yourself.

With easy-to-follow instructions, tips for customization, and ways to make them ahead of time, these pancakes are simple enough for a weekday breakfast yet special enough for holiday mornings. Whether you’re a pancake enthusiast or a cinnamon roll lover, cinnamon roll pancakes combine the best of both worlds. Try them today, and bring a little indulgence to your breakfast table!