If you love all things cinnamon and crave a breakfast treat that will win over even the sleepiest morning crowd, these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes will quickly become your new obsession. Imagine fluffy pancakes with glorious cinnamon swirls, finished with a luscious cream cheese glaze — the perfect mash-up of your favorite bakery cinnamon roll and a stack of golden pancakes. Whether you’re planning a leisurely weekend brunch or want to surprise your family with something magical, Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a true showstopper you’ll want to make again and again.

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple but essential ingredients build flavor and texture in every bite. Each component plays an important role — from softness and rise to that signature cinnamon swirl and creamy glaze. Here’s what you’ll need to create unforgettable Cinnamon Roll Pancakes:

All-purpose flour: This gives your pancakes the tender, fluffy base needed to soak up all that cinnamon goodness.
Baking powder: Adds lift and helps the pancakes puff up just right.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances every flavor note.
Milk: Keeps the batter moist and smooth — adjust a bit if the batter seems thick.
Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and a soft crumb to the pancakes.
Large egg, beaten: Binds everything together and adds richness.
Pancake mix (optional): Feel free to use your favorite mix, like Bisquick, if you want to save time!
Butter (for filling): Gives that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth swirl.
Light brown sugar (for filling): Creates caramel-like flavor in the cinnamon swirl.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and coziness — cinnamon is essential here.
Butter (for glaze): Adds creaminess and helps blend the glaze smoothly.
Cream cheese: The tangy, decadent base of your signature glaze.
Powdered sugar: Melts into the glaze for perfect sweetness without any graininess.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the glaze with a hint of mellow flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

Start by combining melted butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl until perfectly smooth. This mixture creates those unmistakable swirls inside each pancake that set Cinnamon Roll Pancakes apart. Scoop the filling into a zip-top bag and let it rest while you prep the batter — you want it to thicken up just enough to pipe without oozing all over the pan.

Step 2: Mix Up the Pancake Batter

Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Pour in the milk, beaten egg, and vegetable oil, mixing until just combined. Don’t worry about a few lumps — over-mixing can make your pancakes tough instead of pillowy-soft. If you’re short on time, substitute your favorite boxed pancake mix and just follow the instructions on the package. The key here is a batter that’s thick but pourable.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the butter and cream cheese until soft and easy to blend. Whisk them together until silky smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. The glaze should pour easily but not be watery — if it’s too thick, add a splash of milk. This creamy topping is the crowning glory of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes!

Step 4: Swirl and Cook the Pancakes

Heat your griddle or large skillet over low heat — cinnamon swirls can burn quickly, so take it slow. Spray with non-stick spray, then ladle about half a cup of batter for each pancake. Snip a small corner off your zip baggie and swirl the cinnamon filling on top in a tight spiral. Watch as bubbles form on the pancake’s surface before flipping. Cook an extra minute or two for golden, caramelized undersides with gooey cinnamon swirls.

Step 5: Serve with Warm Glaze

As you finish each batch, move them to a baking sheet in a warm oven so everyone eats hot pancakes. Just before serving, spoon over plenty of that cream cheese glaze. It melts into the warm Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, making every bite taste like the center of a cinnamon roll dream.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Garnishes

Go wild with toppings! Besides the classic cream cheese glaze, try a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or even a smattering of fresh berries to add brightness and color. A drizzle of maple syrup stays true to pancake tradition, while extra cinnamon keeps things cozy.

Side Dishes

These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes pair beautifully with breakfast classics. Crisp bacon or savory sausage cut through the sweetness, while a simple fruit salad or freshly sliced oranges offers a welcome, juicy contrast. For a special brunch, try serving with fluffy scrambled eggs or a fresh-pressed juice.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re making a brunch spread, stack the pancakes high on a pretty platter with glaze drizzled dramatically down the sides. Try cutting pancakes into wedges for a cinnamon roll pancake “pie”, or serve minipancakes as adorable party bites. You can even let everyone swirl their own cinnamon filling for interactive fun — kids will love it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, you’re in luck: they store well! Cool them completely, then stack between pieces of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and keep the cream cheese glaze in a separate container.

Freezing

For longer storage, slide fully cooled pancakes (without glaze) into a freezer bag with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to two months. The glaze can also be frozen separately in an airtight container. Thaw both in the refrigerator overnight and they’ll taste freshly made!

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm pancakes in the microwave or in a low oven, covered with foil so they don’t dry out. Warm the cream cheese glaze separately and drizzle it on just before serving for the best flavor and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with gluten-free flour?

Yes! Substitute your favorite all-purpose gluten-free flour blend and follow the same instructions. You may need to add a splash more milk if the batter thickens too much.

What’s the best way to get thick, defined cinnamon swirls?

Let your cinnamon filling sit for 10–15 minutes after mixing so it thickens slightly, and swirl it onto the pancakes slowly over low heat. This keeps the spiral from spreading out too much.

Can I prepare the batters or fillings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the pancake batter and cinnamon filling a day in advance and refrigerate both separately. Stir before using and let come to room temperature for easy pouring and swirling.

How do I keep my pancakes from burning?

Cook the pancakes on low heat — the cinnamon sugar filling can easily burn if it’s too hot. Patience is key! It’s better to cook a little slower to ensure gooey centers and perfectly caramelized swirls.

Do I have to use the cream cheese glaze?

While the cream cheese glaze is classic (and truly delicious), you can swap in simple icing or even just maple syrup if you’re out of cream cheese. The glaze brings rich, tangy flavor, but Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are still fantastic with just cinnamon filling!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes — they really are a game-changer for breakfast lovers! Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a crowd, they add a magical touch to any morning. Give them a go, and don’t be surprised if they become the most requested breakfast recipe in your kitchen.