Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe

Are you looking for a breakfast that combines the deliciousness of cinnamon rolls with the fluffiness of pancakes? Look no further! Cinnamon roll pancakes are the ultimate treat that will satisfy your cravings for something sweet and indulgent. These pancakes are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch and are sure to impress your family and friends. Read on to discover how to make these heavenly cinnamon roll pancakes from scratch.

What are Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

Cinnamon roll pancakes are a delightful fusion of two breakfast favorites: cinnamon rolls and pancakes. These pancakes are light and fluffy with a sweet, gooey cinnamon swirl and a drizzle of cream cheese icing. Each bite is a perfect combination of soft pancake and rich, buttery cinnamon filling, making it a decadent breakfast treat.

Ingredients List for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

For the Pancakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons milk (to desired consistency)

Substitutions and Variations

• Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Milk: Substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Butter: Use margarine or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
• Cream Cheese: Use a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan-friendly icing.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a small ziplock bag and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. Add milk a tablespoon at a time until the icing reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.
3. Make the Pancake Batter:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
4. Cook the Pancakes:
   • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray. Pour about ¼ cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
5. Add the Cinnamon Swirl:
   • Snip a small corner off the ziplock bag containing the cinnamon filling. When the pancakes start to form bubbles on the surface, squeeze a spiral of the cinnamon filling onto each pancake, starting from the center and working your way outwards.
6. Flip the Pancakes:
   • Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown. The cinnamon filling should caramelize slightly.
7. Serve:
   • Transfer the pancakes to a serving plate. Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the top of the pancakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: This can result in dense pancakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• High Heat: Cooking the pancakes over high heat can burn the cinnamon filling. Medium heat is ideal.
• Runny Cinnamon Filling: Ensure the cinnamon filling is thick enough to hold its shape when piped onto the pancakes.
• Skipping the Icing: The cream cheese icing is essential for achieving the full cinnamon roll pancake experience.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Cinnamon roll pancakes can be served as a standalone breakfast or paired with other breakfast items for a hearty meal. Here are some serving ideas:

• Classic Breakfast: Serve with scrambled eggs and bacon for a complete breakfast.
• Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

• Stacked Presentation: Stack the pancakes high and drizzle with cream cheese icing for a visually appealing presentation.
• Single Serving: Serve individual pancakes on small plates with a generous drizzle of icing.
• Family Style: Arrange the pancakes on a large platter with icing drizzled over the top and extra icing on the side for guests to add more if desired.

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe Tips

• Keep Pancakes Warm: If making a large batch, keep the cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a warm skillet.
• Freezing: Pancakes can be frozen. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a ziplock bag. Reheat in the toaster or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.

Q: How do I prevent the cinnamon filling from sinking to the bottom? A: Ensure the filling is thick enough to hold its shape when piped. If it’s too runny, add a bit more brown sugar to thicken it.

Q: Can I use store-bought pancake mix? A: Yes, you can use store-bought pancake mix and follow the package instructions. Just add the cinnamon swirl and cream cheese icing for the cinnamon roll effect.

Q: How do I make the pancakes fluffier? A: Ensure your baking powder is fresh, and be careful not to overmix the batter. Letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking can also help.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter? A: Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in both the pancake batter and the cinnamon filling.

Conclusion

Cinnamon roll pancakes are a delightful and indulgent breakfast treat that combines the best of both cinnamon rolls and pancakes. With their fluffy texture, sweet cinnamon swirl, and creamy icing, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe is a surefire way to start your day on a sweet note. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of cinnamon roll pancakes!

Print