Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine everything you love about soft, fluffy pancakes and gooey cinnamon rolls in one irresistible breakfast treat. If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the warm, swirled goodness of a cinnamon roll without waiting for dough to rise, this recipe is your answer. These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes deliver that signature spiral of brown sugar and cinnamon right inside a tender, buttery pancake — all finished with a silky cream cheese glaze that melts beautifully over the top.

What makes them truly special is that gorgeous cinnamon swirl piped directly onto the batter as it cooks. It caramelizes slightly in the pan, creating a gooey center with lightly crisp edges and soft, pillowy layers throughout. The result? A breakfast that feels indulgent yet totally doable.

I first made these on a chilly Saturday morning when my family was craving something cozy but I didn’t want a complicated baking project. Thirty minutes later, we were sitting around the table with warm stacks dripping in glaze — and they’ve been a weekend favorite ever since.

Perfect for brunch, holidays, or just because, these pancakes promise big cinnamon roll flavor with simple, stress-free steps.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

There’s something truly magical about combining two beloved breakfast classics into one unforgettable dish. These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes bring together the fluffy comfort of homemade pancakes and the sweet, swirled indulgence of a bakery-style cinnamon roll — without the extra work. They feel special enough for a holiday brunch yet simple enough for an ordinary Saturday morning.

What I love most is how approachable they are. No complicated steps. No fancy equipment. Just cozy flavors, everyday ingredients, and a recipe that feels both celebratory and completely doable. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting brunch, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers big flavor with very little stress.

That Irresistible Gooey Cinnamon Swirl

The star of the show is that beautiful spiral made from brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. As the pancake cooks, the swirl gently melts into the batter, creating caramelized pockets of sweet cinnamon flavor. You get a gooey center, slightly crisp golden edges, and soft, fluffy layers in every bite. It’s warm, buttery, and perfectly comforting — just like a cinnamon roll fresh from the oven.

Simple Pantry Ingredients

You likely have everything you need already sitting in your kitchen. Flour, sugar, eggs, butter, buttermilk — nothing complicated here. And the best part? There’s no yeast required. That means no rising time and no extra steps. It’s a budget-friendly breakfast that tastes like it came from your favorite brunch café.

Ready in Just 30 Minutes

Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that require kneading and rising, these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish. No waiting around for dough to proof. Just mix, swirl, cook, and drizzle. They’re perfect for busy mornings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Completely Customizable

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Add chopped pecans for crunch, swap the glaze for maple syrup, or sprinkle in a little pumpkin spice during fall. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking and let kids choose their own toppings. It’s easy to make them your own while keeping that cozy cinnamon roll flavor at the heart of it all.

Ingredients

One of the reasons this recipe works so beautifully is the balance of simple ingredients that each play an important role. When combined, they create fluffy pancakes, a rich cinnamon swirl, and a smooth cream cheese glaze that ties everything together.

Full List of Ingredients

Pancake Batter

• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and that classic fluffy pancake texture.

• Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the swirl.

• Baking powder & baking soda – Work together to create lift and an airy crumb.

• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

• Buttermilk – Brings tanginess and helps keep the pancakes tender.

• Eggs – Add richness and structure.

• Melted butter – Adds moisture and buttery flavor.

• Vanilla extract – Gives warmth and depth.

Cinnamon Swirl

• Brown sugar – Creates that deep, caramel-like sweetness.

• Melted butter – Helps the swirl pipe smoothly and melt into the pancake.

• Ground cinnamon – The signature spice that makes this recipe shine.

Cream Cheese Glaze

• Cream cheese – Adds tangy richness.

• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and smooths the glaze.

• Milk – Thins the glaze to drizzle consistency.

• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Making these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes is surprisingly simple — and once you’ve done it once, you’ll feel like a brunch pro.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Whisk the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution for a light texture.

2. Mix the wet ingredients separately. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.

3. Combine gently. Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined. A few small lumps are perfectly fine — overmixing can make pancakes dense.

4. Prepare the cinnamon swirl. Stir together brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until thick and smooth.

5. Transfer to a piping bag. Spoon the mixture into a zip-top bag and snip a small corner for easy swirling.

6. Heat your skillet. Place a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it. Medium-low is key to preventing the swirl from burning.

7. Pour the batter. Use about ¼ cup per pancake. The batter should spread gently into a round shape.

8. Pipe the spiral. Starting in the center, pipe a spiral outward. Don’t press too hard — a light touch works best.

9. Flip carefully. When bubbles form on the surface and edges look set and lightly golden, gently flip using a wide spatula. Cook until the other side is golden brown.

10. Make the glaze. Whisk cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.

11. Stack and drizzle generously. The glaze will melt slightly over the warm pancakes, creating that classic cinnamon roll finish.

Even if you’re new to homemade pancakes, this process is wonderfully forgiving. Cook low and slow, and you’ll be rewarded with fluffy centers and beautifully caramelized swirls.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

These pancakes are indulgent on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully turns breakfast into a true brunch experience.

Suggested Pairings

Drinks

• Fresh brewed coffee

• Vanilla latte

• Chai tea

• Cold milk

Savory Pairings

• Crispy bacon

• Breakfast sausage

• Scrambled eggs

Sweet Additions

• Fresh berries

• Warm maple syrup

• A dollop of whipped cream

Whether you keep it simple with coffee or create a full brunch spread, these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes shine at the center of the table. They’re warm, comforting, and just a little bit celebratory — the kind of breakfast that brings everyone back for seconds.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the things I love most about Cinnamon Roll Pancakes is how adaptable they are. Whether you’re working around dietary needs or simply want to change things up, this recipe welcomes creativity. Think of it as your cozy base — and from there, you can make it entirely your own.

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Making these gluten-free is easier than you might think. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that already contains xanthan gum for the best structure. Also double-check that your baking powder is certified gluten-free.

The texture may be slightly softer and a bit more delicate when flipping, but the flavor and cinnamon swirl goodness remain just as satisfying.

Dairy-Free Option

You can absolutely make a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor. Replace the buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic that classic tang. Swap the melted butter for vegan butter, and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze.

The result? Still fluffy, still gooey, and every bit as comforting — just tailored to your needs.

Extra Decadent Version

If you’re leaning into full brunch indulgence, try stirring chopped pecans into the cinnamon swirl for added crunch. You can also swap the cream cheese glaze for a maple glaze or finish everything with a light caramel drizzle. It turns a cozy breakfast into something truly celebration-worthy.

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

For a fall-inspired twist, add a few tablespoons of pumpkin puree to the batter and slightly reduce the buttermilk to maintain consistency. A pinch of nutmeg and cloves alongside the cinnamon deepens the warmth. It’s like your favorite autumn latte — but in pancake form.

Storage Instructions

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which doesn’t always happen in my house!), storing them properly keeps them just as delicious the next day.

Room Temperature Storage

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes can sit at room temperature for about 1–2 hours. Simply cover them loosely with foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. After that, refrigeration is best.

Refrigeration Tips

Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat for the best texture, or use the microwave for a quick option. A fresh drizzle of glaze brings them right back to life.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, lay pancakes flat with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven until warmed through. They make busy mornings so much easier.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

A few simple techniques can make all the difference. Here are my favorite tips for pancake success:

• Cook over medium-low heat to prevent the cinnamon swirl from burning.

• Don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are perfectly fine — they actually help keep pancakes fluffy.

• Let the swirl mixture cool slightly before piping so it doesn’t spread too quickly.

• Use a squeeze bottle instead of a bag for cleaner, more controlled spirals.

• Flip gently with a wide spatula to keep the swirl intact.

• Wipe the pan between batches if excess cinnamon mixture starts to caramelize too much.

• Keep pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while finishing the batch.

And remember — even if you're new to homemade pancakes, this recipe is wonderfully forgiving. Take your time, keep the heat steady, and enjoy the process. Before you know it, you’ll have a warm stack of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes that feels both homemade and bakery-worthy.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, you might enjoy these other cozy and sweet breakfast favorites:

• 🍌 Banana Cream Cheesecake
  Rich, smooth, and loaded with creamy banana flavor — perfect for dessert lovers.

• 🍎 Slow Cooker Fried Apples
  Warm, cinnamon-spiced apples that pair beautifully with pancakes or waffles.

FAQs

If you’re making Cinnamon Roll Pancakes for the first time, a few questions might pop up — and that’s completely normal. Let’s walk through the most common ones so you feel confident and ready to cook.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can. Simply cook the pancakes as directed, allow them to cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or warm them in the microwave. For best results, add the cream cheese glaze just before serving so it stays smooth and fresh.

Why is my cinnamon swirl leaking out?

This usually happens for two reasons: the heat is too high, or the swirl mixture is too thin. If the skillet is too hot, the sugar melts too quickly and spreads. Keep your heat at medium-low and let the swirl mixture cool slightly before piping. A thicker swirl holds its shape beautifully.

Can I use pancake mix instead?

Yes, you can use your favorite boxed pancake mix as a shortcut. Simply prepare the batter according to package instructions, then focus on making the cinnamon swirl and cream cheese glaze as written. It’s a great option for busy mornings.

How do I prevent the swirl from burning?

Cook low and slow. Medium-low heat allows the pancake to cook through while the cinnamon swirl caramelizes gently without scorching. If needed, wipe the pan lightly between batches to prevent excess sugar buildup.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

Definitely. Wrap cooled pancakes tightly and place parchment between layers before freezing. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven until warmed through. They’re perfect for make-ahead breakfasts.

What’s the difference between cinnamon roll pancakes and regular pancakes?

The magic is in the swirl and glaze. Regular pancakes are fluffy and simple, while Cinnamon Roll Pancakes feature a buttery cinnamon spiral baked right into the batter and finished with cream cheese glaze. It’s like enjoying a cinnamon roll in pancake form.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes contains approximately:

• Calories: ~420

• Carbohydrates: ~55g

• Protein: ~8g

• Fat: ~18g

• Sugar: ~28g

• Sodium: ~420mg

• Fiber: ~1–2g

Keep in mind that nutrition estimates can vary depending on the brands you use and the exact serving size. Adding extra glaze, syrup, or toppings will naturally increase the values. For the most accurate results, consider using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably special about a stack of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes fresh off the skillet. The fluffy layers, the gooey cinnamon swirl melting into each bite, and that creamy drizzle of glaze on top — it’s comfort food at its finest.

What I love most is how simple they are. You get all the warm, cozy flavor of a cinnamon roll without the extra steps or waiting time. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday brunch, a weekend treat, or just because you deserve something sweet, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d truly love to hear how it turns out for you. Leave a comment below and share your favorite variations! And don’t forget to pin this recipe for later — because once you make these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, you’ll definitely want them again.

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