Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: A Cozy Breakfast Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the enticing aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, beckoning you to indulge in the comforts of a delicious breakfast. When I first combined the fluffy goodness of pancakes with the warm, gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls, I knew I had struck gold. These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, with their decadent swirl of cinnamon filling and topped with a rich cream cheese glaze, transform an ordinary morning into an extraordinary treat.

Whether it s a leisurely weekend brunch or a cozy weekday breakfast, this easy recipe is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Gone are the days of boring breakfasts these playful pancakes capture the essence of classic cinnamon rolls without the fuss. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. It s a delightful way to add a little sweetness to your morning routine!

Why are Cinnamon Roll Pancakes so irresistible?

Decadent Swirls: Enjoy fluffy pancakes featuring a rich swirl of cinnamon filling that evokes the comforting taste of traditional cinnamon rolls.

Easy to Make: Simply blend ingredients for a hassle-free breakfast that s quicker than making yeast-based rolls.

Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love the playful shape and sweet flavors perfect for a family breakfast!

Customizable Delight: Add your favorite toppings, like fresh fruit or chocolate chips, to make them even more exciting.

Time-Saving: Prepare a delightful breakfast in under 30 minutes, giving you more time to savor the day with your loved ones.

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Ingredients

For the Pancakes

• All-Purpose Flour Provides structure and body to the pancakes; substitute with a gluten-free flour mix if needed.
• Baking Powder Acts as a leavening agent, promoting fluffiness; ensure it is fresh for best results.
• Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; can be omitted for a low-sodium version.
• Milk Hydrates the dry ingredients; adjust amount for desired batter consistency, or use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Vegetable Oil Adds moisture, preventing pancakes from drying out; can substitute with melted butter or coconut oil.
• Large Egg Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; for an egg-free option, use flaxseed meal or chia seed substitute.

For the Cinnamon Filling

• Butter Adds richness and flavor; opt for margarine for a dairy-free variant.
• Packed Light Brown Sugar Sweetens the filling and enhances flavor; can be replaced with white sugar or coconut sugar.
• Ground Cinnamon Provides the signature cinnamon roll flavor; adjust quantity based on your taste preference.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• Butter Adds richness to the glaze; replace with dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
• Cream Cheese Creates a creamy texture; use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan substitute.
• Powdered Sugar Sweetens the glaze and gives it a smooth finish; for lower sugar, reduce the amount used.
• Vanilla Extract Enhances the flavors; can be omitted for a more straightforward taste.

Elevate your breakfast experience with these fantastic Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, guaranteed to make mornings a little sweeter!

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

1. Prepare Cinnamon Filling: In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Transfer this mixture into a zip-close bag and let it sit aside for 10-15 minutes to thicken slightly.
2. Make Pancake Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add in the milk, vegetable oil, and the beaten egg, mixing gently until just moistened. Don t worry about small lumps; they ll dissolve during cooking!
3. Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze: In a small saucepan, heat butter and cream cheese over low heat until melted. Whisk until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a creamy consistency. Set this aside for a moment.
4. Cook Pancakes: Heat a skillet over low heat to prevent burning. Pour ½ cup of pancake batter onto the skillet, then snip the corner of the cinnamon filling bag and swirl the mixture on top. Cook until bubbles start appearing, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
5. Serve: As you cook the remaining pancakes, keep them warm in the oven set to low. When ready to serve, drizzle the warm cream cheese glaze over the pancakes and enjoy!

Optional: Garnish with sliced bananas or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists for a breakfast experience that tantalizes your taste buds!

• Whole Wheat Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier, more nutritious pancake.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these pancakes suitable for a gluten-sensitive audience.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap regular milk and butter for almond milk and coconut oil to cater to dairy-free diets.
  This way, everyone can savor the delight of these pancakes without the worry!
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle in chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist that will please any chocolate enthusiast.
• Fruit Infusion: Top pancakes with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color.
  Not only do fruits elevate the dish, but they also create a fresh contrast with the creamy glaze!
• Spicy Cinnamon Kick: For a warming twist, mix a dash of cayenne pepper into the cinnamon filling; the heat complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Cream Cheese Variations: Experiment with flavored cream cheese like strawberry or even pumpkin spice for a unique glaze that offers a fun twist on the classic.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are perfect for busy mornings and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pancake batter and cinnamon filling up to 24 hours in advance by storing them separately in the refrigerator. Simply mix the batter and refrigerate it in an airtight container, and store the cinnamon filling in a zip bag. To maintain the quality, make sure to keep the filling away from moisture. When you re ready to serve, just reheat the batter gently to room temperature, cook the pancakes in a skillet, and drizzle with the freshly made cream cheese glaze for that same delicious, cozy flavor with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

• Skillet Temperature: Ensure your skillet is on low heat. This prevents the cinnamon filling from burning, allowing for perfectly swirled pancakes.
• Squeeze Bottle Advantage: Use a squeeze bottle for the cinnamon filling. This gives you better control over the design and ensures an even swirl.
• Batter Consistency: Don t over-mix the pancake batter. Having small lumps is perfectly fine and will contribute to fluffy cinnamon roll pancakes.
• Batch Keeping: Keep your cooked pancakes warm in the oven while preparing the rest. This ensures every pancake is served at the right temperature, making it a comforting breakfast experience.
• Creative Add-Ons: Experiment with different toppings! Adding fresh fruit or nuts not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture to the overall dish.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?

Elevate your breakfast experience by pairing these delightful pancakes with complementary sides that enhance their sweet flavors.

• Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness with their juicy tartness.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the pancakes for added sweetness and a classic breakfast touch. It enhances those cinnamon flavors beautifully!
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luscious texture, making your pancakes feel indulgent while perfectly complementing the cream cheese glaze.
• Sautéed Apples: Caramelized apples cooked with cinnamon create a warm, comforting side that echoes the cinnamon filling s essence. They also add a delightful texture.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit create a refreshing contrast that adds crunch and creaminess, making mornings a bit more special.
• Coffee or Latte: Start your day right with a warm cup of your favorite brew. The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the pancakes elegantly.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling toasted pecans or walnuts on top provides a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavors, complementing the cinnamon perfectly.
• Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, add lightly toasted coconut flakes, offering texture and a unique flavor that harmonizes with the glaze.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh for enjoying later or warming up in the morning!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pancakes individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 1 month. This makes for quick breakfasts anytime!

Reheating: Reheat pancakes in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through. Drizzle with cream cheese glaze just before serving for that fresh taste!

Thawing: If frozen, thaw pancakes in the fridge overnight before reheating, ensuring they re ready to enjoy when hunger strikes!

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour can I use for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?
You can use all-purpose flour for this recipe, which provides the structure and fluffiness needed for the pancakes. If you re looking for gluten-free options, I recommend substituting with a gluten-free flour mix. Just ensure it s designed for baking!

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?
For best results, store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have a larger batch or want to keep them longer, freeze them! Individually wrap each pancake in plastic wrap, or place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will stay fresh for up to 1 month.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Pancakes?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the pancakes cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and be sure to label the date. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat!

What should I do if my pancakes are coming out too dense?
If your pancakes are dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Aim to mix until the ingredients are just combined and small lumps remain, which helps keep them fluffy. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to a less fluffy texture.

Are these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes kid-friendly?
Very! You ll find that kids adore the sweet flavors and the fun, swirly designs of these pancakes. They re a fantastic breakfast or snack option that can be tailored to personal preferences. Feel free to let your little ones help with the swirling for added fun!