Who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven? Now imagine that same warm, gooey cinnamon flavor swirled into fluffy pancakes. Meet your new breakfast obsession: cinnamon swirl pancakes. These are like the love child of pancakes and cinnamon rolls, and trust me, they’re about to steal the show at your breakfast table.
With a perfect swirl of buttery cinnamon sugar caramelized right into each pancake, these sweet treats are ideal for lazy weekends, brunch with friends, or even just treating yourself. And the best part? They’re super easy to make—no fancy ingredients or advanced baking skills required. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about how to make cinnamon roll pancakes that’ll wow everyone who takes a bite.
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My Little Story With Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes
The first time I made cinnamon swirl pancakes, it was a total experiment. I’d been craving cinnamon rolls but didn’t have the patience to wait for dough to rise, so I thought, “Why not try the flavor in a pancake?” I whipped up a quick batter, mixed some cinnamon sugar with butter, and swirled it into the pancakes as they cooked. When I flipped the first one, the caramelized swirl looked like something out of a diner breakfast dream. One bite, and I was hooked—fluffy pancake on the outside, gooey cinnamon goodness on the inside. Now, it’s my go-to recipe anytime I want to impress family or just treat myself on a lazy weekend morning.
Why Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Are Worth It
First off, let’s talk about why these pancakes are such a hit. Imagine the soft, fluffy texture of your favorite pancakes combined with the rich, spiced sweetness of a cinnamon roll. That swirl of pancake cinnamon sugar melts into a gooey, caramel-like layer that pairs perfectly with maple syrup (or a cream cheese glaze if you’re feeling fancy). These pancakes taste like dessert for breakfast but are just simple enough to whip up any time you’re craving something special.
Whether you’re making them for a holiday breakfast, a birthday surprise, or just because it’s Tuesday, this pancake cinnamon roll recipe is guaranteed to please.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes
Here’s what you’ll need to make these sweet, swirled pancakes from scratch. Don’t worry—most of this stuff is already sitting in your pantry.
For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk (whole milk works best, but any milk will do)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
- Cream cheese glaze (a mix of cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla)
Equipment You’ll Need
Making cinnamon swirl pancakes doesn’t require any fancy gadgets, just some basic kitchen tools you probably already have. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: One for the pancake batter and another for the cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Whisk or Spoon: For mixing the batter and combining ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for getting the right proportions for both the batter and the swirl.
- Piping Bag or Resealable Plastic Bag: To create the signature cinnamon swirl pattern. A sandwich bag with a snipped corner works perfectly.
- Nonstick Skillet or Griddle: A nonstick surface ensures your pancakes cook evenly and makes flipping a breeze.
- Spatula: A thin, flexible spatula is ideal for flipping pancakes without breaking them.
- Ladle or Measuring Cup: For portioning out the pancake batter evenly onto the skillet.
With these tools, you’re all set to create fluffy, golden pancakes with that delicious cinnamon swirl. No need for anything fancy—just the basics and a little creativity!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Let’s break this down step by step, so you can nail these cinnamon pancakes on your first try.
Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir until smooth and well combined. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag and snip a small corner. This will allow you to swirl the mixture easily onto your pancakes.
Pro Tip: If the mixture is too runny, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to thicken up. This will make it easier to control the swirl.
Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk just until combined. A few lumps in the batter are fine—don’t overmix!
Step 3: Heat the Griddle
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. A properly heated griddle ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Test the Heat: Flick a drop of water onto the pan—if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Cook and Swirl
Pour about ¼ cup of pancake batter onto the skillet. Immediately pipe a swirl of the cinnamon mixture onto the batter, starting from the center and spiraling outward. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2-3 minutes).
Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The cinnamon swirl will caramelize and create a gooey, sweet layer inside the pancake.
Step 5: Stack and Serve
Transfer your pancakes to a plate and keep them warm while you finish the rest. Stack them high, drizzle with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze, and top with whipped cream or powdered sugar for the ultimate treat.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes
- Chill the Swirl Mixture: A slightly firm cinnamon swirl mixture is easier to control and prevents it from running all over the pancake.
- Don’t Overfill the Swirl: A thin, even swirl is all you need for that signature look and flavor.
- Low-Medium Heat is Best: Cooking pancakes too quickly can burn the cinnamon sugar before the pancake is fully cooked.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and quality cinnamon make a noticeable difference in the flavor and fluffiness.
Pancake Cinnamon Roll Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas to customize your cinnamon roll pancakes:
- Add a Cream Cheese Glaze: Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a rich, drizzly topping.
- Make It Healthier: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
- Go Big on Toppings: Top your pancakes with caramelized bananas, toasted pecans, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
- Try a Shortcut: Use your favorite store-bought pancake mix to speed things up. Just add a splash of vanilla and cinnamon to the batter for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Pancakes
Cinnamon swirl pancakes are more than just breakfast—they’re a culinary delight that combines comfort, sweetness, and indulgence in every bite. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with these delicious pancakes:
- Fluffy Perfection: The pancakes are light, airy, and perfectly soft, making every bite melt in your mouth.
- Gooey Cinnamon Swirl: The rich, buttery cinnamon swirl is like a cinnamon roll’s best feature, embedded into every pancake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special breakfast, a weekend brunch, or just a morning treat, these pancakes elevate any meal.
- Kid and Family-Approved: These pancakes are sure to impress everyone at the table, with requests for them to become a weekend staple.
- Simple Yet Spectacular: They’re surprisingly easy to make but look and taste like something you’d order at a fancy brunch spot.
So, grab your ingredients and prepare to create a stack of pancakes that will have everyone asking, “Are these on the menu every weekend?” Spoiler alert: They absolutely should be! 😊
FAQs About Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes
How much cinnamon should I add to my pancakes?
For pancakes with a warm cinnamon flavor, add ½ to 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to your pancake batter. If you’re making a cinnamon swirl, the swirl mixture will provide plenty of flavor, so there’s no need to add extra cinnamon to the batter unless you love a really bold cinnamon taste.
Are cinnamon rolls and swirls the same?
Not quite! Cinnamon rolls are a baked treat made with dough rolled around a cinnamon-sugar filling, while cinnamon swirls in pancakes are a gooey mixture of butter, cinnamon, and sugar piped into pancake batter as it cooks. Both have similar flavors, but swirls in pancakes are quicker and easier to make!
Can you buy Denny’s pancake mix?
Yes, Denny’s sells its signature pancake mix online and in select stores. It’s a convenient option if you love their pancakes but want to enjoy them at home. You can use it as a base for cinnamon swirl pancakes by adding a homemade cinnamon swirl on top.
Can you use powdered sugar instead of regular sugar for pancakes?
It’s not ideal. Powdered sugar contains cornstarch, which can affect the texture of your batter and make it gummy. For the best results, stick to granulated sugar for the batter. However, powdered sugar works great as a topping for pancakes if you want to sprinkle some sweetness on top!
Can I Use Pancake Mix for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, use your favorite pancake mix and follow the package instructions for the batter. Then, simply prepare the cinnamon swirl as directed in this recipe. It’s a great way to make pancake mix cinnamon roll pancakes without extra hassle.
Why Does My Cinnamon Swirl Spread Out?
If your swirl mixture spreads too much, it’s probably too runny. Let it cool in the fridge for 5–10 minutes to thicken before piping.
What you can serve with these pancakes
- Bagel with Cream Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Breakfast – A simple yet satisfying option. Toast a bagel, slather it with cream cheese, and enjoy it alongside your fluffy pancakes.
- Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole – A hearty and delicious dish perfect for feeding a smaller group. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Venison Breakfast Sausage Recipe: Thrilling Magic Creation! – Add a savory twist to your breakfast spread with this flavorful and protein-packed option.
- Coffee – No breakfast is complete without a cup of joe. Whip up a batch of Creamy Crockpot Hot Chocolate or treat yourself to a creamy Caramel Latte to sip while enjoying your meal.