Cinnamon Roll Pancakes fill your kitchen with the smell of warm cinnamon and butter, just like a cozy morning at home. The first time I made them, everyone gathered around the stove before the first pancake was done. These fluffy pancakes bring together the joy of cinnamon rolls and the ease of pancakes in one recipe. Whether you prefer making things from scratch or using a quick boxed mix, this sweet breakfast idea is pure comfort food. It fits perfectly among fun easy recipes and yummy comfort food favorites.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Quick and easy for busy mornings or sweet snack recipes
• Simple ingredients that are already in your kitchen
• Two methods, from scratch or with a boxed mix like Bisquick
• Family-friendly and perfect for brunch or holidays
• Delicious cinnamon swirl and creamy glaze that everyone loves
This recipe stands out because it gives you all the flavor of a classic cinnamon roll without yeast or waiting time. You’ll enjoy fluffy pancakes with a smooth cream cheese glaze that tastes bakery fresh.
Ingredients Needed for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
For the Pancakes
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk, adding more if the batter feels too thick
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Optional: 2 cups Bisquick or any boxed pancake mix, prepared as directed
For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 1¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients come together to make fluffy pancakes with a sweet cinnamon swirl and smooth glaze. They are perfect for fun baking recipes and easy breakfast ideas.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
Combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Spoon the mix into a small zip-top bag. Let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes so it thickens. This step helps the swirl hold its shape while cooking. - Make the Pancake Batter
If making from scratch, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, mix milk, oil, and egg. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and whisk gently until combined. A few small lumps are fine.
If using a boxed mix, follow the package directions for your pancake batter. - Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
Melt butter and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, whisking until creamy. Keep warm until ready to serve. - Cook the Pancakes
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle on low to medium-low heat. Lightly coat it with cooking spray. Pour about ½ cup of batter for each pancake. Cut a small tip off the bag of cinnamon filling and pipe a swirl on top of the batter. Cook until small bubbles appear on the surface, then flip gently. Cook for another one to two minutes until golden brown. Transfer finished pancakes to a baking sheet and keep them warm in the oven while cooking the rest. - Add the Cream Cheese Glaze
Drizzle or spoon the glaze over warm pancakes before serving. The glaze melts beautifully and gives each pancake a perfect finish.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve these cinnamon roll pancakes stacked high and topped with a drizzle of glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Add whipped cream or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the glaze separate and add it just before serving. Reheat pancakes in the microwave or toaster until warm. For longer storage, freeze them for up to two months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Helpful Notes
• Cook slowly on low heat so the swirl does not burn.
• Let the cinnamon filling cool before piping; it should be thick, not runny.
• For a tangy taste, replace milk with buttermilk.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
• Mix in a little Greek yogurt for high-protein cinnamon roll pancakes.
These simple tips help you make perfect cinnamon swirl pancakes every time.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine the best of both worlds: the flavor of cinnamon rolls and the comfort of fluffy pancakes. They are ideal for sweet breakfast ideas or quick recipes snacks when you want something special. Every bite brings warmth, sweetness, and creamy glaze that makes mornings brighter.
If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment and a star rating below. Share your version on Pinterest or Facebook so others can try it too. What toppings do you love on your pancakes? Share your ideas in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cinnamon roll pancake?
A cinnamon roll pancake is a fluffy pancake filled with a spiral of buttery cinnamon sugar and topped with a creamy glaze. It has the same flavor as a cinnamon roll but takes less time to make.
How to cook cinnamon pancakes?
Cook pancakes on a lightly greased skillet over medium-low heat. Wait until bubbles appear, then flip once and cook until golden. This helps the swirl stay in place and prevents burning.
How to make pancakes out of cinnamon rolls?
Flatten canned cinnamon rolls and cook them on a skillet like pancakes. Flip when golden, then drizzle with the glaze that comes in the package.
Does cinnamon taste good in pancakes?
Yes, cinnamon adds a cozy, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze.
What spices go well in pancakes?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla work wonderfully in pancakes, giving them a warm and inviting flavor.
Can you add vanilla and cinnamon to pancakes?
Yes, adding both vanilla and cinnamon creates an aroma and taste that feels homemade and comforting.
How are pancake rolls made?
Spread batter thinly on a griddle, cook lightly, and then roll it with cinnamon filling or fruit for a creative twist.
Can you pan fry cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can cook cinnamon rolls in a covered skillet on low heat until they are golden and soft. Finish with icing once cooked.
More easy Recipes To Try!
The Best Cinnamon Roll Pancakes (From Scratch Or Boxed Mix!)
Ingredients
For the Pancakes
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk add more if batter feels too thick
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cups Bisquick or boxed pancake mix optional, prepared as directed on package
For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: Combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Spoon the mix into a zip-top bag and let it rest for 10–15 minutes to thicken. This helps the swirl hold its shape while cooking.
- Make the Pancake Batter: If making from scratch, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, mix milk, oil, and egg. Pour wet mixture into dry and whisk until combined. For boxed mix, prepare according to package directions.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: Melt butter and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth, then whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy. Keep warm until ready to use.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over low to medium-low heat and lightly coat with cooking spray. Pour ½ cup of batter per pancake. Cut a small corner from the cinnamon filling bag and pipe a swirl on top. Cook until bubbles appear, flip gently, and cook 1–2 more minutes until golden. Keep warm in the oven while finishing the rest.
- Add the Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle or spoon glaze over warm pancakes just before serving. Optionally top with whipped cream, nuts, or extra cinnamon sugar.
