If you’ve ever wished that breakfast could combine the warm, gooey goodness of your favorite cinnamon roll with the fluffy comfort of pancakes, then this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is a true game changer. Imagine swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar baked right into soft, tender pancakes, topped off with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts your heart with every bite. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples to transform your morning meal into an indulgent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to perfecting this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—from the sweetness of brown sugar to the tang of cream cheese—creating that signature cinnamon roll flavor wrapped in pancake form.
- Pancake Mix: Using a trusty pancake mix like Hungry Jack saves time and ensures fluffy pancakes every time.
- Brown Sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Adds rich sweetness and caramel notes that mimic cinnamon roll filling.
- Butter (divided): Needed both melted and melted with cream cheese to provide moisture and enhance flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp): The star spice that gives cinnamon rolls their iconic warm and fragrant personality.
- Powdered Sugar (1 1/2 cups): For the smooth, sweet cream cheese glaze that crowns the pancakes.
- Cream Cheese (3 oz): Offers tang and richness in the glaze, balancing the sweet elements perfectly.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds depth and a lovely aroma to the glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter
Start by mixing your pancake batter according to the directions on the package, using the largest quantity suggested to make enough pancakes for the recipe. Setting the batter aside allows you to focus on crafting the heavenly fillings and glaze without rushing.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
In a medium bowl, gently heat 4 tablespoons of butter alongside 3 ounces of cream cheese. Warm them in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the glaze is perfectly velvety and ready to drizzle.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
Next, melt â…“ cup of butter in the microwave, then stir in the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This slurry is the flavor-packed filling that will swirl inside your pancakes. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag so you can easily create beautiful cinnamon rolls inside the pancakes.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes with Cinnamon Swirls
Heat your skillet on low, adding butter if it’s not nonstick to prevent sticking. Pour about ½ cup of pancake batter into the skillet. Before the batter sets, pipe the cinnamon filling in a spiral pattern in the middle—be careful to avoid spreading the cinnamon mixture all the way to the edges. Cook until bubbles appear on top, then flip gently to finish cooking the other side without breaking the swirl.
Step 5: Serve with Warm Cream Cheese Glaze
Just before serving, generously drizzle the warm cream cheese glaze over your cinnamon-swirled pancakes. This final touch elevates the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe to a deluxe breakfast experience your family and friends will rave about.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes makes your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe look as delightful as they taste. Fresh slices of banana, a sprinkle of chopped pecans, or even a dusting of powdered sugar can add texture and visual appeal. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle a little maple syrup or swirl a glaze of melted butter and cinnamon on top.
Side Dishes
Pair these pancakes with crispy bacon or sausage for a salty contrast that balances the sweetness perfectly. A side of fresh fruit like berries or melon can also provide a refreshing complement, brightening the plate with color and natural juiciness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the pancakes with layers of cream cheese glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar between each one for an impressive cinnamon roll pancake tower. You can even use mini pancake molds to create individual servings or turn the leftover glaze into a dip for bite-sized pancakes at brunch parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2 to 3 days, retaining their delicious cinnamon swirl and fluffy texture.
Freezing
To freeze, separate pancakes with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevent them from sticking together and lets you enjoy the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe fresh anytime you crave that comforting cinnamon flavor. They can be frozen for up to a month.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated pancakes in a toaster, oven, or microwave. For best results, gently warm them until just heated through so the cream cheese glaze stays luscious. Add a fresh drizzle of glaze after reheating for that freshly made feeling.
FAQs
Can I make the cinnamon filling ahead of time?
Yes! The cinnamon filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before piping into the pancakes for smooth, easy swirling.
What pancake mix works best for this recipe?
I love using a reliable mix like Hungry Jack because it creates consistently fluffy pancakes. However, feel free to use your favorite mix or even homemade pancake batter.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute your pancake mix with a gluten-free version. Just ensure the other ingredients don’t contain gluten, and you’ll have that same cinnamon roll pancake magic without worry.
Can I use less sugar in the glaze?
Sure! Adjust the powdered sugar in the glaze according to your sweetness preference. If you want it less sweet, start with half and add more as needed while whisking.
How do I keep the cinnamon swirl from spreading too much?
Using low heat and piping the cinnamon filling only in the center of the batter will help maintain the swirl shape. Avoid spreading the filling to the edges and cook slowly for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is a charming twist on two breakfast favorites combined into one delightful dish. Every bite bursts with cinnamon sugar magic balanced by a creamy glaze that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, these pancakes will win hearts and become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give them a try—you won’t regret bringing this sweet, swirly joy into your life!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, combining the ease of classic pancake batter with a rich, swirled cinnamon filling and a luscious cream cheese glaze. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these pancakes bring the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls into a quick and satisfying stack.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- Pancake mix (largest amount from package instructions, typically around 2 cups dry mix plus required wet ingredients)
Cinnamon Filling
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 3 oz cream cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, mix the pancake batter according to the directions on the pancake mix package. For this recipe, prepare the largest amount of batter suggested, then set aside.
- Make Cream Cheese Glaze: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of butter and 3 ounces of cream cheese. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth. Whisk in 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the glaze is creamy and smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare Cinnamon Filling: In a separate clean medium bowl, melt 1/3 cup butter in the microwave. Once melted, stir in 3/4 cup packed brown sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon until well combined. Transfer this cinnamon mixture into a piping bag and set aside.
- Cook Pancakes with Cinnamon Swirl: Heat a nonstick pancake skillet or griddle over low heat. If not nonstick, add a small amount of butter to coat the surface. Pour 1/2 cup of pancake batter onto the heated skillet. Using the piping bag, carefully pipe the cinnamon filling in a swirl pattern in the center of the pancake batter, avoiding the edges. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to set, then carefully flip the pancake and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve with Cream Cheese Glaze: Just before serving, drizzle the warm cream cheese glaze generously over the stacked cinnamon roll pancakes for a sweet and creamy finish.
Notes
- Use a low heat setting to prevent the cinnamon sugar swirl from burning while cooking.
- If you don’t have a piping bag, a resealable plastic bag with a small corner cut off can work as a substitute.
- For fluffier pancakes, consider letting the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the cinnamon swirl amount to suit your taste preference.
- These pancakes are best served immediately to enjoy the glaze warm.
