Cinnamon Roll Pancake

Name: Cinnamon Roll Pancake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and fluffiness to the pancakes; 2 teaspoons aluminum-free baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise without a metallic taste; ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; 1 ¼ cups milk: Adds moisture to the batter; 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds buttery flavor and tender texture; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with warm, sweet aroma; ⅓ cup melted butter (for swirl): Acts as the base for the cinnamon swirl; ¾ cup packed light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and depth to the cinnamon swirl; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Gives the swirl its signature spiced flavor; 4 tablespoons butter (for glaze): Combines with cream cheese for a smooth topping; 2 ounces cream cheese: Adds richness and tang to the glaze; 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the cream cheese flavor

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If you’re torn between cinnamon rolls and pancakes for breakfast, why not enjoy the best of both worlds? This Cinnamon Roll Pancake recipe brings together fluffy pancakes and gooey cinnamon swirls topped with a rich cream cheese glaze. Perfect for cozy weekend mornings or brunch gatherings, these pancakes are a guaranteed hit. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, you can recreate that classic Cinnabon flavor at home in just 15 minutes.

What Makes These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes So Special

These cinnamon roll pancakes aren’t just pancakes with cinnamon—they’re a full experience. Fluffy, buttery, and infused with cinnamon sugar swirls that caramelize slightly on the pan, they mimic the center of a cinnamon roll in every bite. The tangy cream cheese glaze ties it all together, making syrup entirely optional. They’re:

Quick to make – Ready in under 20 minutes.
Kid-friendly – A huge hit with picky eaters and sweet tooths.
Make-ahead friendly – Store and reheat easily.
Visually stunning – That swirl is a showstopper!

Whether you’re craving cinnamon buns or just want to spice up your pancake routine, these pancakes deliver comfort food bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Pancakes

The beauty of this Cinnamon Roll Pancake recipe lies in simple ingredients that work harmoniously to build layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what goes into each component:

Pancake Batter Base

All-purpose flour: Provides structure and fluff.
Aluminum-free baking powder: Ensures the pancakes rise without a metallic taste.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
Egg: Binds ingredients and adds fluffiness.
Melted butter: Infuses the batter with buttery goodness.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma.

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

Melted butter: Acts as a fat base and caramelizes when cooked.
Light brown sugar: Adds deep molasses sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Delivers that signature spicy warmth.

Cream Cheese Glaze

Cream cheese: Provides tang and richness.
Butter: Helps the glaze melt smoothly.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the creamy flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions and Custom Options

Sometimes you just don’t have every ingredient on hand, or maybe you’re adjusting for dietary preferences. Here are a few flexible substitutions:

No butter? Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free twist.
No cream cheese? Greek yogurt or mascarpone can work in the glaze.
Gluten-free? Replace flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix like King Arthur’s GF Blend.
Lower sugar? Reduce brown sugar by 1/4 and skip the glaze—or swap for a maple yogurt drizzle.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Step-by-Step

Creating these pancakes is easier than making cinnamon rolls from scratch—and way faster. Here’s your step-by-step guide to success:

Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Pour into a zip-top bag and set aside.
Mix the Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in the center and add milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and cream cheese together. Stir until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Whisk until it forms a pourable glaze.
Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease lightly. Pour about ⅓ cup of batter onto the pan and spread into a circle.
Add the Cinnamon Swirl: Snip a small corner off the zip-top bag and pipe a spiral over the batter, starting from the center.
Flip and Finish: Cook for 2 minutes until bubbles form and edges set. Flip carefully and cook 1–2 more minutes.
Repeat: Clean skillet between batches to avoid burnt sugar. Repeat with remaining batter and cinnamon swirl.
Serve and Drizzle: Stack pancakes and top with cream cheese glaze while warm.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Every Time

Want to take your pancakes from good to unforgettable? Keep these tips in mind:

Use a small cut on your swirl bag for precision.
Avoid over-swirling or spreading to the edge—it can leak over the sides.
Clean the griddle between batches to avoid burned sugar.
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother glaze.
Keep pancakes warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while finishing the batch.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are rich and flavorful on their own, but they pair beautifully with other breakfast favorites or can be customized further:

Delicious Pairings

Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory-sweet combo
Fresh fruit like bananas or berries to lighten the plate
Scrambled or poached eggs to balance the sugar

Fun Flavor Twists

Pumpkin spice: Add a dash of pumpkin spice to the cinnamon swirl.
Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
Chocolate chip swirl: Add mini chips to the batter for extra indulgence.
Apple cinnamon: Dice and sauté apples, then layer between pancakes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days.
Freeze between layers of parchment and reheat in a toaster or oven.
Make glaze ahead and store refrigerated for 5–7 days.

A Comforting Breakfast for Every Season

Whether it’s a holiday breakfast, birthday brunch, or lazy Sunday morning, Cinnamon Roll Pancakes make any occasion feel extra special. With their melt-in-your-mouth swirl and luscious glaze, they bring bakery-level comfort right to your kitchen—no yeast or rising time required.

This recipe is not only indulgent but also accessible, fast, and endlessly adaptable. After one bite, you’ll see why this cinnamon roll pancake recipe is a keeper for life.

Wrapping Up: Why Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Deserve a Spot on Your Table

There’s something undeniably comforting about starting your day with warm, buttery pancakes—and when you add a cinnamon roll twist, you’re creating a breakfast that feels like a celebration. These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the best of both worlds: fluffy texture, swirls of gooey cinnamon sugar, and a creamy glaze that’s as indulgent as it is simple.

Whether you’re impressing brunch guests, spoiling your kids on the weekend, or treating yourself to something special, this recipe guarantees a satisfying, bakery-worthy breakfast in your own kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and a little swirl technique, you’ll be serving up a stack that everyone will remember.

FAQ: Cinnamon Roll Pancake Questions Answered

How do I keep the cinnamon swirl from burning?

The key is to keep your pan at medium heat and clean the surface between each batch. Wipe the skillet with a damp paper towel to remove any excess sugar residue, which can burn easily. Also, make sure the swirl is piped in a thin, even spiral that doesn’t spread too close to the edges of the pancake.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook and refrigerate or freeze the pancakes in an airtight container. To reheat, warm them in a toaster oven or microwave. The cream cheese glaze can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before drizzling.

What’s the best type of cinnamon to use?

For rich, aromatic flavor, use Ceylon cinnamon or Saigon cinnamon. Avoid stale or old spices, which can taste bitter. If your cinnamon tastes too sharp, try blending it with a touch of nutmeg or cardamom for added warmth.

More Relevant Recipes

Cinnamon Roll No-Bake Cookies: These cookies deliver all the cinnamon roll flavor you love in a quick, no-bake treat. With creamy icing and a soft, chewy texture, they’re a fuss-free option for anyone who enjoys the warm spices and sweetness of a classic cinnamon roll pancake.
Apple and Cinnamon Porridge: A warm, comforting breakfast bowl packed with cozy cinnamon flavor and chunks of apple. This dish echoes the spiced warmth of cinnamon roll pancakes while offering a hearty and wholesome alternative for everyday mornings.
Vegan Cinnamon Sugar Knots: These soft, twisted pastry knots are coated in cinnamon sugar and baked until golden. Ideal for those seeking a vegan version of cinnamon-spiced comfort food, they make a sweet companion to your pancake-loving mornings.

Cinnamon Roll Pancake – Best Recipe with Creamy Glaze

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