Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Cinnamon roll pancakes are the ultimate treat for anyone who craves the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but wants a more approachable, quicker alternative. Imagine fluffy buttermilk pancakes swirled with a delicious blend of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, all topped off with rich cream cheese icing. What's not to love? These pancakes bring together the best of both worlds, combining breakfast convenience with dessert-like indulgence.
Why are cinnamon roll pancakes the perfect comfort food? They merge the nostalgic memories of Saturday mornings with the warm aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air. Whether you’re having them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these pancakes are a delight any time of the day! Plus, making them is significantly less time-consuming than traditional cinnamon rolls, which often require hours of proofing and baking.
If you’re looking to impress friends or simply treat yourself, these pancakes fit the bill. It's no wonder they have become a favorite in many households. For more delightful breakfast ideas, you might want to check out this Allrecipes article featuring innovative pancake variations! So, let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and get ready to savor every bite.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Creating cinnamon roll pancakes at home is a delightful experience that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious breakfast treat:
Pancake Base
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar (for that perfect buttermilk flavor)
- 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 (for easy flipping)
With these ingredients, you'll be well on your way to enjoying this mouthwatering breakfast! For additional tips and inspirations, check out articles on buttermilk pancakes and cream cheese icing. Happy cooking!
Preparing Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Creating cinnamon roll pancakes in your kitchen is an excellent way to enjoy the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls without the time commitment. Let’s walk through the steps to make these delicious pancakes together!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it's important to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s a quick list to help you out:
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Pancake Base:
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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 melted butter
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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 melted butter
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1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
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Cream Cheese Icing:
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¼ cup softened butter
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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
Gathering your ingredients not only saves time but also gets you in the cooking mood!
Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a medium bowl, stir together the milk and vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the milk to sour, creating a homemade buttermilk. The acidity of the vinegar enhances the flavor and texture of your pancakes.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
While waiting for the milk to sour, combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Mix the all-purpose flour, white sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend is where the magic begins; these ingredients ensure your pancakes are fluffy and flavorful.
Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add the egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract into your now-soured milk mixture. Whisk everything together until it's smooth. Don’t worry if there are a few lumps left in the batter; that’s perfectly fine!
Make the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon for the filling. Transfer this mixture to a resealable bag and refrigerate for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps thicken the mixture, making it easier to swirl into your pancakes.
Cook the Pancakes
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly greased with cooking spray. Pour about ⅔ cup of the pancake batter onto the hot surface, and watch for bubbles to form—this usually takes 2-3 minutes. Once you see bubbles start to pop, it’s time to add your cinnamon swirl filling. Remember, less is more; swirl the mixture carefully to keep it contained.
Drizzle the Cream Cheese Icing
Once both sides are golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side), remove the pancake from the pan. For the finishing touch, drizzle your homemade cream cheese icing over the warm pancake. You can make this icing by mixing softened butter and cream cheese, then whisking in confectioners' sugar and vanilla. It’s utterly delightful!
Now you’re ready to dive into your delicious cinnamon roll pancakes! Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet dessert treat later in the day. Why not share them with friends or enjoy a cozy morning alone with your favorite coffee? Happy cooking!

Variations on Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Nutty Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
For a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll pancakes, try adding some chopped nuts to your batter. Walnuts or pecans not only provide a satisfying crunch but also a subtle, nutty flavor that elevates your pancakes. Mix about ½ cup of your favorite nuts into the batter before cooking, and enjoy the added texture in every syrup-drenched bite!
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, chocolate chip adds a decadent layer to your cinnamon roll pancakes. Just fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter for that indulgent touch. The melty chocolate combined with the cinnamon swirl is bound to be a hit at breakfast or brunch. For more variations, consider exploring chocolate chips or even peanut butter swirls to customize your pancakes further!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Creating perfect cinnamon roll pancakes can be a delightful experience! Here are some handy tips to ensure you nail this recipe every time:
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Don’t Rush the Batter: Lumpy batter is completely normal, and overmixing can lead to dense pancakes. Just mix until combined!
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Get the Right Heat: Ensure your skillet is at medium heat. A too-hot skillet can scorch the cinnamon swirl, while a cooler one will make for soggy pancakes.
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Chill the Filling: Allow the cinnamon swirl filling to chill for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to swirl and keeps it from spreading too much when cooking.
For more pancake tips, check out The Kitchn for insights on mastering fluffy pancakes!

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Pairing Ideas
When it comes to enjoying your cinnamon roll pancakes, consider serving them alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas for a pop of freshness. Adding creamy Greek yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream can also enhance the flavor and provide a satisfying texture. For a savory twist, try turkey bacon or chicken ham as a hearty side; the contrast of sweet and savory is simply divine.
Best Time to Enjoy
These delightful pancakes are perfect for breakfast or brunch, but don’t limit yourself; savor them for dessert or even as an afternoon snack! Enjoy them hot off the griddle for the best experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some maple syrup or honey on top to elevate the flavor even more. For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out Allrecipes Breakfast Collection.
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Preparation Time
Get ready in just 30 minutes! Start by gathering your ingredients and mixing up the pancake batter along with the cinnamon swirl filling.
Cooking Time
Cook each pancake in just 10 minutes. You’ll marvel at how quickly these delicious treats come together.
Total Time
In about 55 minutes, you’ll have a stack of beautiful cinnamon roll pancakes ready to enjoy. Perfect for a weekend brunch or any day you crave a cozy breakfast!
For tips on perfecting your pancakes, check out this helpful guide on pancake flipping techniques to ensure you achieve that golden-brown color every time!
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Calories
These delightful cinnamon roll pancakes offer about 316 calories each, making them a satisfying treat without overindulging. It’s the perfect balance for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Fat Content
You’ll find 18 grams of total fat per pancake, including 11 grams of saturated fat. While this may seem high, remember that moderation is key. Pairing these with a fruit smoothie can balance your meal.
Protein
Each pancake contains 4 grams of protein. To boost the protein content, consider adding some scrambled eggs or turkey bacon on the side. This way, you’ll have a well-rounded meal to kickstart your day!
For more insights on balanced eating, visit Harvard Health. Enjoy these delicious pancakes guilt-free!
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Can I Make These Pancakes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pancake batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just give it a quick stir before cooking. If you're looking to save even more time, you can also cook the pancakes in advance and reheat them in the toaster or microwave when you’re ready to dig in.
What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry! You can make a quick substitute by combining one cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens slightly. This method mimics the acidity of buttermilk, making it a great alternative for your cinnamon roll pancakes.
How to Store Leftover Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?
To store leftover pancakes, simply let them cool completely, then layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. Just reheat them in the toaster or microwave for a delicious, quick breakfast any time! For more tips on storing homemade goods, check out The Kitchn.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
In summary, cinnamon roll pancakes are a delightful fusion of two beloved breakfast classics—fluffy pancakes and gooey cinnamon rolls. They offer a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a sweet treat at any time of day. Try making them this weekend for a fun brunch with friends or family!

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Equipment
- Griddle
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Spoon
- 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. 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.
- Enjoy!





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