Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

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These fluffy cinnamon roll pancakes turn a lazy morning into a bakery moment at the skillet. Swirls of warm cinnamon and brown sugar bake into tender pancakes, then a glossy vanilla glaze brings everything together in a gooey finish. They are quick to mix and even quicker to fall in love with, perfect for a weekend treat or a celebratory brunch. For more cozy cinnamon ideas, try this caramel apple cinnamon rolls for an autumn twist.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

These pancakes offer the dreamy flavor of cinnamon rolls without the fuss of yeast or proofing. The batter stays light thanks to baking powder and baking soda working together with tangy buttermilk, while the cinnamon brown sugar swirl gives each bite a sticky center just like the classic pastry. They come together in a single skillet so cleanup is minimal and the presentation is delightfully rustic. Kids and guests will love watching you swirl the filling on the griddle before flipping each pancake. If you enjoy breakfast hybrids, you might also like these playful cinnamon roll waffles that deliver the same nostalgic flavors with extra crisp edges.

Flavor and Texture

Expect soft, pillowy pancakes with ribbons of caramelized cinnamon running through the middle. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that balances the brown sugar sweetness while melted butter keeps crumbs tender and rich. The cinnamon swirl caramelizes slightly against the hot surface, giving tiny pockets of syrupy sweetness. The vanilla powdered sugar glaze adds the final smooth note, turning warm pancakes into a luscious morning indulgence. Served hot, the contrast of warm pancakes and glossy glaze feels indulgent without being heavy.

Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
3. For the cinnamon swirl, combine cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and pour 1/4 cup of batter. Swirl some of the cinnamon mixture on top. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
5. For the glaze, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth.
6. Serve pancakes warm, drizzled with glaze.

Tips for Best Results

Use a nonstick skillet or a well seasoned pan to keep the pancakes intact when you swirl the filling. Keep the skillet at medium heat so the cinnamon sugar can melt without burning and the centers cook through. Spoon the cinnamon mixture sparingly on each pancake to create defined swirls instead of a single dark patch. If your batter sits a little thick, thin with a splash of buttermilk so pancakes stay tender. Warm plates in a low oven while you finish cooking so every stack stays soft and inviting when served.

Storage and Make Ahead

Cooked pancakes store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven so the edges stay soft and the cinnamon centers remain gooey. You can freeze separated layers with parchment paper between them for up to one month and reheat from frozen on a baking sheet at low temperature. Prepare the cinnamon sugar mix in advance and keep it sealed until ready to swirl for an easy morning assembly.

Final Thought

Cinnamon roll pancakes are a joyful balance of comfort and convenience that turn any morning into a special occasion. They are simple enough for a weekday boost and pretty enough for guests. Whip up a stack, drizzle with glaze, and enjoy the familiar warmth of cinnamon in every bite.

Conclusion

For the original inspiration and a similar tested method, see this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe which complements the ideas and shortcuts shared here.