Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the perfect twist on classic buttermilk pancakes. With a swirl of cinnamon roll filling in the batter, these pancakes are packed with cinnamon goodness in every bite. Topped with a creamy cream cheese icing, they make a sweet and irresistible breakfast treat the whole family will love!

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Below you will find tips, tricks and helpful hints for making this recipe including step by step instructions with pictures. If you would like to go directly to the recipe, scroll down to the recipe card or tap "Jump to Recipe" at the top of the page.

Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe

I have a great breakfast recipe for you! I know this, because I have made it every single day for the last week. My boys are seriously addicted to these pancakes. And once you taste them, I know you’ll understand why.

The tanginess of the buttermilk pancakes compliments the sweetness of the cinnamon swirl. And the brown sugar crips a little and reminds me of the crust on creme brûlée. My mouth is watering.

Pair these perfect pancakes with sweet cream cheese icing and I am telling you, it is amazing! Make sure to serve this with a side of Crispy Oven Bacon and your breakfast will be perfect.

Cinnamon Roll Pancake Ingredients

*Ingredient amounts are located in the recipe card at the end of this post.

For the Cinnamon Swirl

• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramel flavor to the cinnamon swirl.
• Cinnamon: The star ingredient in a traditional cinnamon roll! It adds warmth and spice to the filling.
• Butter: Melted butter helps bind the brown sugar and cinnamon together, creating a thick paste for swirling.

For the Buttermilk Pancakes

• All Purpose Flour:  Gives the pancakes structure and fluffiness.
• Baking Powder: Helps the pancakes rise and creates light, airy texture.
• Salt: Adds flavor and balances out the sweetness of the pancake batter.
• Buttermilk: The tangy buttermilk adds moisture and flavor to the pancakes. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk.
• Eggs: Helps bind the batter together and adds richness to the pancakes.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a delicious flavor to the pancakes.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the pancakes moist and prevents them from sticking to the pan while cooking.

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• Cream Cheese:  Adds tanginess and creaminess to the icing.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the icing.
• Milk: Helps thin out the icing to make it easily drizzle-able.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a delicious flavor to the icing.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes

[Step 1] Cinnamon Swirl:  In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Set aside.

[Step 2] Pancakes: Place the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl and whisk together.

[Step 3] In a medium bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla, and vegetable oil together. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir to combine.

[Step 4] Place the cinnamon swirl mixture to a ziploc bag and snip off one corner of your bag of cinnamon filling. You can also add the mixture to a squeeze bottle.

[Step 5] Heat a griddle to 325 degrees (medium heat) and add ¼ cup of the batter for each pancake ( I use a ¼ cup ice cream scoop or cookie scoop to measure the batter). Starting from the center of the pancake, swirl the cinnamon mixture onto each pancake. When the pancakes begin to bubble, flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown.

[Step 6] Cream Cheese Drizzle: Use hand beaters or a food processor to combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over the top of the pancake.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Griddle

How to Store Leftovers 

These pancakes are best served fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on a griddle before serving.

Variations and Substitutions 

• Pancake Batter: Feel free to use your favorite homemade pancakes batter recipe or even a boxed mix to make these cinnamon roll pancakes. Just add the cinnamon swirl and cream cheese icing as directed in this recipe.
• Cream Cheese Icing: You can also use a store-bought cream cheese frosting instead of making your own cream cheese icing. Just warm up the frosting in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before drizzling over the pancakes. 
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pancake mix or substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check all other ingredients for any possible sources of gluten. 
• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based milk and vegan butter for the cinnamon swirl and pancake batter. For the cream cheese icing, you can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative or make a simple powdered sugar glaze using plant-based milk. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

• Can I make these gooey cinnamon roll pancakes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pancake batter and cinnamon swirl mixture ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. Just make sure to mix the cinnamon swirl mixture again before using it. When ready to serve, cook the pancakes as directed and top with cream cheese icing.
• Can I make this fluffy pancake recipe without buttermilk? Yes, you can substitute the buttermilk with regular milk. You can also use a plant-based milk alternative, just add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup of milk to create a similar tanginess.
• Can I freeze these pancakes? Yes, you can freeze the cooked pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on a griddle until warmed through. You can also freeze the uncooked pancake batter and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.
• Can I use this recipe to make regular cinnamon rolls? While these pancakes are inspired by traditional cinnamon rolls, the batter is not suitable for rolling and baking like a classic cinnamon roll dough. Find my favorite homemade cinnamon rolls recipe here.

Final Thoughts 

Cinnamon roll pancakes are a delicious and fun twist on traditional pancakes with a swirl of cinnamon and a delicious cream cheese glaze.They're perfect for special occasions or weekend brunch with family and friends. Customize the filling and topping to your liking, or try out different variations and substitutions for a unique flavor experience every time. 

More Breakfast Recipes To Try:

• Sweet Cream Pancakes
• Perfect French Toast
• Crispy Waffles
• Funnel Cake Waffles
• Butter Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
• Sweet Cream Waffles
• Cinnamon Swirl Banana Muffins
• Red Velvet Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls

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