Get ready to fall in love with breakfast all over again: Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the best of both worlds, blending tender, fluffy pancakes with the ooey-gooey swirl of a classic cinnamon roll. Every bite delivers luscious ribbons of buttery cinnamon, warm spice, and a creamy glaze that drapes across pillowy golden pancakes. Whether you’re making a special brunch or just spicing up a weekday morning, this clever combo is sure to turn any meal into an occasion. Trust me, friends—if you love cinnamon rolls and pancakes (who doesn’t?), this is the recipe you’ve been waiting for!

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes lies in their simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each element adds to the soft texture, rich flavor, and beautiful appearance that makes these pancakes unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips to make every bite perfect.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a fluffy bite while staying wonderfully tender.
Baking powder: The secret to tall and airy pancakes—don’t skip it!
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances every flavor.
Milk: Adds creaminess and keeps the batter moist; whole milk gives the richest taste, but any milk works.
Vegetable oil: Makes the pancakes soft and helps them brown beautifully.
Large egg (beaten): Binds the batter and adds lightness and lift.
Pancake mix (like Bisquick, optional): For shortcut mornings! Just prepare according to the package if you go this route.
Butter (melted): Essential in the cinnamon swirl for its rich, buttery taste and perfect swirl texture.
Light brown sugar (packed): Brings caramelly sweetness and that signature cinnamon roll color.
Ground cinnamon: Delivers the star flavor—use fresh for the boldest taste!
Butter (for glaze): Softens and smooths out the luscious cream cheese topping.
Cream cheese: Adds tang and richness, making every drizzle irresistible.
Powdered sugar: Blends seamlessly into the glaze for a silky finish.
Vanilla extract: Lends depth and a homey aroma that shouts “cinnamon roll!”

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Step 1: Whip Up the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

Start by combining your melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth and glossy. Scoop this mixture into a zip-top baggie—this will be your handy piping bag for perfect swirls! Let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for a texture that is just thick enough to pipe, but not runny, so the swirl holds together on the pancake.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pancake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then whisk in the milk, oil, and beaten egg, mixing just until everything’s moistened. It’s okay if a few small lumps remain—overmixing leads to tough pancakes! (If you prefer extra-easy mornings, you can also use pancake mix, just prepare as directed on the box.)

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

For that swoon-worthy finishing touch, microwave the butter and cream cheese together until they’re melted and creamy. Whisk until totally smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until your glaze is thick but pourable. Set aside so it’s ready for drizzling!

Step 4: Cook, Swirl, and Flip

Heat your favorite skillet or griddle over low heat and add a spritz of non-stick spray. Pour about 1/2 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Snip a tiny corner from your bag of cinnamon filling and pipe a gorgeous spiral over each pancake. When you see bubbles appearing on the surface, gently flip the pancake and cook until golden and fragrant—a minute or two more. Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while you work through the batter.

Step 5: Drizzle With Cream Cheese Glaze and Serve

When all your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are ready, pile them up on plates and spoon the silky cream cheese glaze generously over each one. The sweet, tangy glaze melts into the cinnamon swirl for pure breakfast decadence!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Garnishes

Take your Cinnamon Roll Pancakes totally over the top with a flourish! A sprinkle of powdered sugar, extra cinnamon dust, toasted nuts (like pecans or walnuts), or even a few fresh berries makes your stack brunch-worthy. Don’t forget an extra drizzle of cream cheese glaze for good measure.

Side Dishes

Pair these beauties with crisp bacon, savory sausage links, or fluffy scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness. For a lighter touch, serve alongside a bowl of tangy Greek yogurt or fresh fruit salad—the bright flavors pop against the rich pancakes.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Create a pancake “cake” by layering Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with glaze between each level, then slice into wedges. Or try mini silver-dollar versions for brunch buffets—adorably bite-sized and perfect for sharing! You can even set up a DIY toppings bar so everyone personalizes their stack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the pancakes cool to room temperature, then stack between sheets of parchment and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store extra glaze separately so you can reheat and drizzle as needed.

Freezing

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes freeze beautifully! Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash-freeze for 30 minutes, then stack with parchment and seal in a zip-top bag. They’ll keep their flavor in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To recapture that fresh-from-the-skillet magic, warm pancakes in a toaster or on a baking sheet in a 300-degree oven until hot. Microwave the glaze in short bursts until pourable, then add to your warm pancakes just before serving. Breakfast is ready in minutes!

FAQs

Can I use a boxed pancake mix for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality mix like Bisquick works great. Just prepare it according to the package directions, then follow the same cinnamon swirl and glaze steps for a shortcut version that’s just as delicious.

Why did my cinnamon swirl ooze out or sink?

If your cinnamon filling is too runny or the griddle is too hot, the swirl can melt out instead of creating a defined spiral. Make sure to let the filling thicken for 10-15 minutes and keep your cooking temperature low and steady for best results.

Can these pancakes be made gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap out the regular flour for your favorite gluten-free all-purpose blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. The swirls and glaze work exactly the same for a gluten-free treat.

Is there a way to lighten up the cream cheese glaze?

Yes! You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and cut back slightly on the butter if you prefer. If needed, add a splash of milk to thin the glaze to your liking—it’ll still taste irresistibly good.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Of course! Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are always a hit at gatherings. Just double all filling, batter, and glaze ingredients. You can keep finished pancakes warm in a 200-degree oven until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Cinnamon Roll Pancakes have become a family favorite in my kitchen—they’re the ultimate breakfast treat! I hope you dive in and make a batch soon. After just one bite, you’ll want them in your regular breakfast rotation. Enjoy every gooey, swirled, sweet moment.