Why You’ll Love These Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
These aren’t just any pancakes; these are a breakfast revelation! You will absolutely adore these Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes because they perfectly blend two beloved breakfast traditions into one extraordinary dish. First, they deliver that iconic warm, comforting cinnamon roll flavor without the extensive time commitment.
No yeast, no waiting for dough to rise, just quick pancake goodness. Second, they achieve an unbelievably light and airy texture, making every bite of these Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes a delight. We accomplish this amazing fluffiness with simple baking science and the right technique.
Furthermore, the homemade cream cheese glaze truly elevates these pancakes, adding a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced swirl. You get all the best parts of a classic cinnamon roll – the gooey filling, the sweet icing – directly infused into a stack of light, golden pancakes. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions and variations to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
It’s perfect for a special weekend brunch, a cozy family breakfast, or even a quick weekday treat when you are craving something extra special. Prepare to impress everyone with these delightful Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating these amazing Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. Most items are likely already in your pantry!
For the Fluffy Pancakes:
* 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 1 ½ cups buttermilk
* 1 large egg
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
* ¼ cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
* ¼ cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
* 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
* 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream, as needed
Substitutions & Variations
This Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes recipe offers fantastic flexibility! Feel free to adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs.
* Dairy-Free Option: For the pancakes, swap buttermilk for a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (let it sit for 5 minutes). Use a dairy-free butter substitute for the melted butter in the batter, the cinnamon swirl, and the glaze. For the glaze, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and dairy-free milk.
These Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes can easily become plant-based.
* Gluten-Free Flour: You can successfully make these Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
The result will still be wonderfully fluffy.
* Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon swirl mixture for an even more complex flavor profile. A touch of allspice can also enhance the “cinnamon roll” feel in these Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Nutty Swirl: Fold finely chopped pecans or walnuts into your cinnamon swirl mixture for a delightful crunch.
* Maple Cinnamon Swirl: Replace half of the brown sugar in the swirl with pure maple syrup for a richer, deeper flavor.
* Lemon Zest Glaze: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to your cream cheese glaze for a bright, tangy contrast to the rich Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Chocolate Chip Swirl: For chocolate lovers, add mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon swirl or directly into the pancake batter.
* Thicker Glaze: If you prefer a very thick, almost frosting-like glaze, reduce the amount of milk or cream you add.
* No Buttermilk?
No Problem! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, simply use regular milk and add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. This creates a fantastic buttermilk substitute for your Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
When it comes to customization, these Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes allow for a variety of adaptations to suit your needs. If you’re looking for another delicious twist, consider trying out this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating these magnificent Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes is straightforward and fun! Follow these steps carefully for perfect results.
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
* In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency.
* Transfer the cinnamon swirl mixture into a small piping bag or a plastic zip-top bag.
If using a zip-top bag, snip a tiny corner off the bag when ready to pipe. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
* In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. An electric mixer works best here.
* Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
* Stir in the vanilla extract.
* Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time, mixing until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. The glaze should be smooth but not too thin. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Pancake Batter
* In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined.
* In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
* Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine; overmixing will lead to tough pancakes. You want fluffy pancakes!
Step 4: Cook the Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
* Heat a lightly greased non-stick griddle or large frying pan over medium-low heat. Test the temperature: a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate.
* Pour approximately ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot griddle.
* Immediately after pouring the batter, pipe the cinnamon swirl mixture in a spiral pattern onto each pancake. Start from the center and move outwards, or create concentric circles. Use your piping bag or snipped zip-top bag.
* Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
* Carefully flip each pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
* Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the griddle lightly between batches as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
* Stack your warm Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes on plates.
* Drizzle generously with the prepared cream cheese glaze.
* Serve immediately and enjoy these delightful Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfect Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes involves a few simple tricks. Master these tips for outstanding results every time.
* Don’t Overmix the Batter: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for fluffy pancakes. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Lumps are okay!
Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, dense pancakes instead of light, fluffy ones. Embrace the lumps for truly Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Perfect Griddle Temperature: Medium-low heat is ideal.
If your griddle is too hot, the pancakes will brown quickly on the outside but remain raw in the middle. Too low, and they won’t brown properly and might dry out. Test with a small drop of water – it should sizzle gently.
* Allow Batter to Rest: After mixing, let your pancake batter rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking powder to start working its magic, contributing to incredibly Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Consistent Swirl: When piping the cinnamon swirl, aim for even pressure.
This ensures the swirl spreads beautifully as the pancake cooks. Don’t pipe too much; a moderate amount is perfect to infuse flavor without making the pancakes greasy.
* Keep Pancakes Warm: As you cook batches of your Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, place the finished ones on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F/95°C).
This keeps them warm and prevents them from getting soggy while you finish cooking the rest.
* Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your buttermilk, egg, cream cheese, and butter (for the glaze) are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix smoothly and the glaze become wonderfully creamy, creating the best texture for your Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Grease Lightly: Too much oil can make your pancakes greasy. Use just a very light coating of oil or butter for each batch. A paper towel works well to spread it evenly.
To ensure your Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes turn out perfectly, it’s essential to follow some key techniques. For a similar delightful experience, check out our guide on Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls.
Storage & Reheating Tips
You can absolutely enjoy these Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes beyond the morning you make them! Proper storage and reheating ensure they remain delicious.
Storing Leftover Pancakes:
* Allow the pancakes to cool completely before storing. Stacking warm pancakes creates condensation, making them soggy.
* Stack cooled pancakes between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
* Place the stack in an airtight container or a large zip-top bag.
* Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Storing Cinnamon Swirl and Glaze:
* If you have leftover cinnamon swirl, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
* Store leftover cream cheese glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You might need to whisk it again and add a tiny splash of milk to loosen it before drizzling.
Freezing Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes:
* This recipe freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, flash freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from sticking together.
* Transfer the frozen pancakes to a freezer-safe bag or container, again separating layers with parchment paper if stacking.
* Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes:
* Microwave: For a quick reheat, place 1-2 pancakes on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. This is great for a single serving of Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Oven/Toaster Oven: For larger batches or for a crispier edge, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Heat for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
* Toaster: Individual pancakes can be popped into a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes until warm and slightly crispy. This method works especially well for frozen Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Remember to reheat the glaze separately and drizzle it on after the pancakes are warm. Cold glaze on hot pancakes is not ideal!
What to Serve With This Recipe
These Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a showstopper on their own, but pairing them with a few complementary dishes truly completes the breakfast or brunch experience.
* Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty, savory crunch of bacon or the rich flavor of breakfast sausage provides a wonderful contrast to the sweet and fluffy pancakes.
* Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant bowl of mixed berries, sliced bananas, melon, or citrus segments adds freshness and a light, healthy balance to the indulgence of the Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Scrambled Eggs or Omelets: For a more substantial meal, a side of fluffy scrambled eggs or a custom-made omelet offers protein and savory goodness.
* Yogurt Parfait: A layered parfait with Greek yogurt, granola, and fruit is a lovely addition, offering a creamy and crunchy element.
* Maple Syrup (Optional): While the cream cheese glaze is key, some people enjoy an extra drizzle of warm pure maple syrup over their Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Coffee, Tea, or Juice: No breakfast is complete without a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, a comforting mug of tea, or a refreshing glass of orange juice or apple juice.
* Whipped Cream: For an extra decadent touch, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate these already luxurious Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
* Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts offers a textural contrast and nutty flavor.
These Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes can shine on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Enhance your breakfast spread by adding some Blueberry Cream Cheese Tartlets for a delicious contrast.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making these incredible Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes!
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container. For the wet ingredients, you can whisk them together and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
When ready to cook, combine the wet and dry ingredients, but remember not to overmix! This makes preparing your Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes much quicker on a busy morning.
How do I make these pancakes extra fluffy?
Several factors contribute to extra fluffy pancakes! First, don’t overmix the batter; lumps are good. Second, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
Third, using buttermilk (or a buttermilk substitute) reacts with the baking soda to create more lift. Finally, letting the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking allows the gluten to relax and the leavening agents to activate, resulting in wonderfully Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem at all! You can easily make a homemade buttermilk substitute. For every 1 cup of milk, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice.
Stir it gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. This “soured” milk works perfectly in this Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes recipe.
Can I freeze Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?
Absolutely! These Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes until solid.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in a toaster, oven, or microwave.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is very kid-friendly! Children often adore the sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor and the fun swirl pattern. They can even help with the mixing or drizzling of the glaze. It’s a fantastic way to introduce them to a fun, sweet breakfast that tastes like a treat, making these Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes a family favorite.
Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the comforting flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls with the light and airy texture of pancakes, making for a delightful breakfast treat. This unique twist on a beloved classic allows for quick and easy preparation while still capturing the essence of cinnamon rolls, as detailed in this article on pancakes.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
*Note: This nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed and assumes 8 servings. Actual values may vary based on exact measurements and brands used. This calculation includes the pancake, cinnamon swirl, and cream cheese glaze.*
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Sodium | 360mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 30g |
| Protein | 8g |
Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes capture all the best parts of a cinnamon roll – the warm spice, the sweet glaze, and that irresistible comfort – in just a few minutes. They are perfect for a special weekend brunch or even a quick weekday treat!
Ingredients
1 ½ cups All-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
2 teaspoons Baking powder
½ teaspoon Baking soda
¼ teaspoon Salt
1 ½ cups Buttermilk
1 large Egg
2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
¼ cup Unsalted butter, softened (for cinnamon swirl)
¼ cup Packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon Ground cinnamo
4 ounces Cream cheese, softened (for glaze)
2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, softened (for glaze)
1 cup Powdered sugar
1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract (for glaze)
1–2 tablespoons Milk or cream (for glaze)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth, then transfer to a piping bag
- Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze by beating cream cheese and butter until smooth, mixing in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to desired consistency
- Step 3: Mix the Pancake Batter by whisking together dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another, then combining them, ensuring not to overmix
- Step 4: Cook the Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes on a preheated griddle, pouring batter and piping the cinnamon swirl before flipping to cook through
- Step 5: Serve warm, drizzled with the cream cheese glaze
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
Allow batter to rest for 5-10 minutes for fluffiness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg