Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
If you’re a breakfast enthusiast or just someone who loves a good sweet indulgence, cinnamon roll pancakes are about to change your morning routine forever. Combining the fluffy goodness of pancakes with the buttery, spiced decadence of cinnamon rolls, these treats are nothing short of a culinary match made in heaven. Imagine waking up to a breakfast that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings that comforting aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen.
What sets these pancakes apart is their delightful filling—a rich combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter that creates a mesmerizing swirl as you cook each pancake. Plus, they're infinitely easier and quicker to make than traditional cinnamon rolls! You can channel your inner chef without the need for yeast or rising time.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast or whipping up something special for a busy weekday morning, cinnamon roll pancakes offer a sweet, satisfying experience that will surely impress. Curious to learn how to make this simple yet luxurious dish? Keep reading, and let's dive into the recipe together!
For more delightful breakfast ideas, check out Bon Appétit for inspiration.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Essential ingredients for the pancake batter
To start your cinnamon roll pancakes, you’ll need some basic yet essential ingredients for the batter. Gather:
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar (this helps add tenderness)
- 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 components combine to create a fluffy and delicious pancake base that’s perfect for holding that delightful swirl of cinnamon goodness.
Ingredients for the cinnamon swirl filling
For that signature cinnamon roll flavor, you’ll need:
- 5 ½ tablespoons packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
This mixture offers a sweet and spicy surprise within each pancake, inviting you to dig in!
Items needed for the cream cheese icing
No cinnamon roll pancakes would be complete without a delicious cream cheese icing. For this, you’ll need:
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¾ cup confectioners' sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Drizzle this creamy, dreamy icing over your warm pancakes for an indulgent finish that elevates breakfast into a special occasion. For more icing variations, check out the Cream Cheese Icing Recipe from The Spruce Eats.
Now you’re all set to create something truly special — enjoy!
Preparing Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Making cinnamon roll pancakes is a delightful way to start your day or treat yourself on a lazy weekend. With an easy approach, these pancakes combine the fluffy goodness of traditional pancakes with a sweet cinnamon swirl and creamy icing, perfect for those who appreciate a little indulgence. Let’s dive into the preparation process step-by-step, ensuring you achieve fluffy perfection!
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients and let’s make sure you've got everything you need:
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Pancakes: Milk, white distilled vinegar, all-purpose flour, white sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, an egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
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Cinnamon Swirl Filling: Brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon.
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Cream Cheese Icing: Softened butter, cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla extract.
Having everything set helps streamline the process and avoid any last-minute dashes to the pantry.
Create the Sour Milk for the Batter
To achieve that lovely tanginess in your cinnamon roll pancakes, it’s essential to create a sour milk mixture. Just combine ¾ cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of white distilled vinegar in a bowl. Set it aside for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This DIY buttermilk substitutes the need for store-bought buttermilk and adds a delicious depth of flavor to your pancakes.
Mix the Dry Ingredients for Your Pancakes
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step combines your dry ingredients and ensures your pancakes will rise perfectly!
Combine Wet Ingredients and Make the Batter
Once your sour milk is ready, add in 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into your dry ingredients and whisk gently until just moistened. Remember, it’s okay if there are small lumps—overmixing can lead to tough pancakes!
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
For the irresistible cinnamon swirl, mix 5 ½ tablespoons of brown sugar, ¼ cup of melted butter, and 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Transfer this filling into a resealable bag and refrigerate until it thickens, about 10 minutes.
Cook Your Pancakes to Perfection
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and don’t forget to spray it with cooking spray. Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the griddle. Watch as the bubbles start to form, typically taking 2 to 3 minutes.
Swirl the Filling for That Classic Cinnamon Roll Flavor
Once you see those delightful bubbles, carefully cut a corner off your filling bag and swirl it beautifully over the pancake. Make sure to leave some space around the edges to prevent the filling from burning!
Drizzle the Cream Cheese Icing on Top
After flipping the pancake and cooking until golden, drizzle your dreamy cream cheese icing right on top. To make it, mix ¼ cup of softened butter with 2 ounces of cream cheese, stir in ¾ cup of confectioners' sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
Indulge in these cinnamon roll pancakes and enjoy every fluffy bite. They’ll make any breakfast special! Don't forget to check out additional recipes on Allrecipes for more inspired breakfast ideas. Happy cooking!

Variations on Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Nutty Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Walnuts
Looking to add a bit of crunch to your cinnamon roll pancakes? Simply stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts to your pancake batter for a delightful texture twist! The nuttiness complements the sweet cinnamon filling perfectly. Plus, walnuts are a great source of healthy fats and protein, making your breakfast more satisfying. For extra indulgence, toss a few walnuts in the cinnamon swirl to create a nutty surprise in every bite!
Seasonal Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Pumpkin Spice
Embrace the flavors of fall with pumpkin spice-infused cinnamon roll pancakes. Just add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to your cinnamon swirl filling and a ¼ cup of pure pumpkin puree to the batter. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritious twist, bringing an autumnal flair to your brunch table. For more about seasonal ingredients, check out Seasonal Eating.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Best practices for cooking pancakes
To master cinnamon roll pancakes, remember to preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to create that perfect golden-brown crust. Always test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface; if they dance and sizzle, it’s ready! For even cooking, use a ¼ cup measuring cup to pour batter. This helps to keep your pancakes uniform in size and cooking time.
How to achieve an ideal swirl
Creating that beautiful swirl is part of the charm of cinnamon roll pancakes. After pouring your batter, use a piping bag or a resealable bag with a corner snipped off to drizzle the cinnamon filling in a circular motion. Start from the center and work your way out, leaving a little space at the edges to prevent burning.
Suggestions for adjusting sweetness
If you prefer your pancakes a bit less sweet, you can easily adjust the amount of brown sugar in the swirl or the confectioners' sugar in the icing. A great tip is to taste the filling before adding it to your pancakes, allowing you to find the perfect balance that works for you! You can even swap in maple syrup for the icing for a more dynamic flavor profile.
For more tips on pancake making, check out resources from reputable cooking sites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit!

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
When it comes to cinnamon roll pancakes, you can elevate them into a delightful feast with just a few simple pairings.
Pairing Pancakes with Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit adds a refreshing crunch to your cinnamon roll pancakes. Consider topping them with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or slices of banana. Not only do they enhance flavor, but the natural sweetness also balances the richness of the pancake and icing.
Serving with Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham
For a more savory touch, serve your pancakes alongside crispy turkey bacon or delicious chicken ham. The saltiness perfectly complements the sweet flavors of the pancakes, creating a well-rounded meal.
Perfect Beverages to Complement Your Meal
Beverage choice can truly influence your meal experience. Pair your cinnamon roll pancakes with freshly brewed coffee or a warm cup of chai tea for a cozy Sunday brunch vibe. Alternatively, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice offers a bright citrus contrast that can indeed wake up your taste buds!
Explore more brunch ideas and recipes here.
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Preparation Time
Get ready to indulge in these delectable cinnamon roll pancakes with just 30 minutes of prep time! This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing everything together for the perfect batter.
Cooking Time
With a quick 10 minutes of cooking time for each pancake, you’ll have a delightful breakfast or brunch in no time. That’s just enough time to savor the sweet aroma filling your kitchen!
Total Time
All in all, you’ll spend 55 minutes from start to finish, including making that dreamy cream cheese icing. It's a charming addition that elevates your pancakes from ordinary to extraordinary.
For more tips on whipping up the perfect pancake breakfast, check out The Pancake Project for fun ideas!
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Calories per serving
Enjoying a stack of cinnamon roll pancakes means indulging, but in moderation! Each serving contains about 316 calories, making them a delightful treat that won’t derail your day.
Key nutrients: fats, protein, and sugars
These pancakes bring more than just sweetness to your plate:
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Protein: 4g
- Total Sugars: 22g
While they are a comforting option, balancing them with nutrient-dense sides like fruit or turkey bacon can create a more rounded meal. For more detailed nutritional insights, check out Healthline.
FAQ about Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Can I make cinnamon roll pancakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and cinnamon swirl filling the night before. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator. In the morning, give the batter a quick stir, and you’ll be ready to cook your pancakes in no time. For reheating, simply place leftover pancakes in the toaster or microwave until warm. They’re nearly as delightful as when freshly made!
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the icing?
If you're looking for a cream cheese alternative for the icing, you can try using mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt. Both options will provide a similar creamy texture. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk works beautifully too. Just adjust the sweetness to your liking!
Are cinnamon roll pancakes gluten-free friendly?
Yes! You can make delicious gluten-free cinnamon roll pancakes by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. Enjoy these fluffy pancakes with a little extra care and attention to your ingredients for a delightful outcome.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
In summary, cinnamon roll pancakes are a delightful fusion of two beloved breakfast classics, delivering sweet, gooey goodness in every bite. Perfect for brunch or breakfast-for-dinner, these pancakes embody comfort and joy. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself—your taste buds will thank you!
For more delicious recipes, check out Allrecipes and try exploring various topping options to elevate your pancake experience. Happy cooking!

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Equipment
- Griddle
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- Microwave
- 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.
- Combine brown sugar, ¼ cup melted butter, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Pour cinnamon mixture into a resealable 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 until smooth and continue heating until melted. Stir confectioners' sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until icing is smooth.
Cooking
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray. Pour about ¼ 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.
- Wipe the pan/griddle with a clean, damp cloth in between each pancake to remove any excess cinnamon mixture, and spray the griddle with cooking spray between each pancake.
- Enjoy!





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