Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

If you’ve ever struggled to choose between fluffy pancakes and gooey cinnamon rolls for breakfast, these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the answer. This irresistible breakfast mashup combines soft, golden pancakes with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and finishes with a smooth cream cheese glaze that melts into every bite.

Perfect for weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or even a sweet breakfast-for-dinner treat, this recipe delivers bakery-style indulgence using simple pantry ingredients. Every forkful tastes like a warm cinnamon roll straight from the oven—no yeast, no waiting, just pure comfort.

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Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

• Best of Both Worlds – Pancakes and cinnamon rolls in one recipe
• Soft & Fluffy Texture – Light pancakes with gooey cinnamon layers
• Cream Cheese Glaze – Sweet, tangy, and totally addictive
• Easy to Make – No special equipment or advanced skills
• Perfect for Brunch – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pancakes

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pancake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy—do not overmix.

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Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Melt the butter separately and set aside.

For easier swirling, you can combine the cinnamon sugar with melted butter and transfer it to a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped.

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Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.

Pour about 1/4 cup batter onto the skillet. Once the pancake starts to set, drizzle or pipe the cinnamon mixture in a spiral over the surface.

When bubbles form and the edges look set (about 2–3 minutes), carefully flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

Repeat with remaining batter.

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Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, mixing until creamy and pourable.

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Step 5: Serve

Stack the pancakes warm and drizzle generously with cream cheese glaze. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

• Keep heat medium-low to prevent the sugar swirl from burning
• Pipe the cinnamon swirl for cleaner, more defined spirals
• Don’t flip too early—wait until the pancake is mostly set
• Warm the glaze slightly so it melts into the pancakes

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Delicious Variations

• Apple Cinnamon Pancakes – Add finely diced apples to the batter
• Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Pancakes – Add pumpkin purée and spice
• Nutty Version – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top
• Protein Boost – Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder

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What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

• Crispy bacon or sausage
• Fresh fruit or berries
• Scrambled eggs
• Coffee, latte, or hot chocolate

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes. The pancake batter can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before using.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

Absolutely. Freeze cooked pancakes without glaze for up to 2 months. Reheat and glaze before serving.

Why did my cinnamon swirl melt?

If the pan is too hot, the sugar can liquefy. Reduce heat and cook slowly.

Can I make these without cream cheese?

Yes. You can use a simple powdered sugar glaze or maple syrup instead.

Are these kid-friendly?

Very! Kids love the sweetness and fun swirl design.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are the ultimate comfort breakfast—soft, sweet, buttery, and dripping with cream cheese glaze. They turn an ordinary morning into something special and bring bakery-style indulgence straight to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Whether you’re hosting brunch or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers cozy flavors and unforgettable bites every single time. One stack is never enough. 🥞✨