If you love the warm, gooey cinnamon swirl of classic cinnamon rolls but want a quicker, fuss-free breakfast, this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe is your new best friend. I absolutely love how these pancakes combine that decadent cinnamon-sugar filling with soft, fluffy pancakes, topped off with a dreamy cream cheese frosting that’s just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re making a special weekend brunch or a cozy morning treat for the family, these pancakes always make everyone smile at the table.
When I first tried this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to get those beautiful spirals of cinnamon swirling inside each pancake without any complicated rolling or dough-making. You’ll find that the filling stays wonderfully soft without getting crunchy if you pip it just right. Plus, the cream cheese frosting takes these pancakes from everyday to indulgent without much extra effort—trust me, this one’s worth trying soon!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: No yeast, no rolling—just simple batter and a delicious cinnamon swirl with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Brunch: Looks and tastes impressive but comes together quickly for any weekend morning.
- Fluffy, Flavorful Pancakes: The Bisquick base keeps the pancakes light, while the cinnamon filling adds that classic cinnamon roll goodness.
- Cream Cheese Topping: That tangy frosting elevates the pancakes and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully to create the layers of flavor and texture in the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe. You’ll want to use softened butter and cream cheese for the best results and fresh cinnamon for that fragrant spice.
- Butter: Use unsalted and melted or softened depending on the step to achieve the perfect filling and frosting consistency.
- Brown sugar: This gives the cinnamon filling that rich, molasses-like sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Freshly ground if possible for the best flavor punch.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese creates a smooth, tangy frosting that pairs perfectly with the sweet filling.
- Powdered sugar: It dissolves beautifully into the frosting for that silky texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely warm note to both the frosting and pancake batter.
- Bisquick: A handy shortcut pancake mix that ensures fluffy, reliable pancakes every time.
- Whole milk: Adds richness and helps create a tender pancake batter.
- Eggs: Essential for binding and adding lift to your pancakes.
Variations
I love playing around with this Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe to suit different moods and dietary needs—you might find your favorite twist with just a little tweak here or there. Feel free to swap ingredients or add mix-ins for your own signature spin.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pancake mix instead of Bisquick, and watch how fluffy the pancakes still turn out!
- Maple Glaze: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a drizzle of pure maple syrup if you want a lighter finish.
- Fruit Add-Ins: I sometimes add blueberries or chopped apples to the batter for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon sugar filling for a cozy spice blend.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Cinnamon Roll Filling
Start by mixing the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl until smooth and combined. This mixture will become that luscious cinnamon swirl inside your pancakes. I like to scoop it into a piping bag or a small zippered plastic bag, then snip off just a tiny corner (about ⅛ inch) to pipe the filling easily. Having this ready before you cook will make the next steps so much smoother!
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until perfectly smooth. Then, add in the powdered sugar and continue beating until the frosting feels light and fluffy—kind of like cloud-soft goodness. Finally, mix in vanilla extract for that extra dimension of flavor. Pipe this frosting into another bag to drizzle over the pancakes instantly after cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Pancake Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix, milk, vanilla extract, and eggs until the batter is smooth with no lumps. It should be pourable but thick enough to hold a bit of shape. You’ll notice this batter cooks up to fluffy pancakes that are just the right base for the cinnamon filling.
Step 4: Cook and Swirl the Cinnamon Filling
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and grease it with cooking spray or a little butter. Pour about ½ cup of batter into the skillet and let it spread out naturally. Wait until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set—around 2 minutes. Now for the fun part: pipe the cinnamon roll filling into a swirl right in the center of the pancake, avoiding the edges. You want to keep the swirl inside so it stays soft and gooey, not crunchy. Flip the pancake carefully and cook for another minute until golden.
Step 5: Serve with Cream Cheese Frosting
Transfer your perfect cinnamon roll pancake to a plate and immediately drizzle or pipe the cream cheese frosting over the top. The warmth of the pancake melts it just enough for the ultimate indulgence. Repeat with the remaining batter and fillings, and get ready for some seriously happy breakfasts!
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Keep the Spiral Centered: I learned that piping the cinnamon filling too close to the edges causes crunchiness—stay closer to the center for a soft swirl.
- Use a Piping Bag: It makes swirling the cinnamon mixture so much easier and cleaner than spooning or drizzling.
- Don’t Overcook Pancakes: Flip as soon as bubbles appear and edges set to keep pancakes light and fluffy, preventing dryness.
- Softened Cream Cheese: For the smoothest frosting, be sure your cream cheese and butter are very soft before beating.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep it simple with a generous drizzle of the cream cheese frosting, but sometimes I add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon for extra crunch and aroma. A few fresh berries on the side give a lovely pop of color and a bright contrast to the sweet pancakes. You’ll find these little touches really elevate the experience without adding hassle.
Side Dishes
Because these pancakes are rich and flavorful, I like pairing them with lighter sides such as fresh fruit salad or a simple green smoothie. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausages also make a great savory counterpoint if you want a heartier meal. Whichever you choose, it balances perfectly with the cinnamon roll sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I sometimes stack the pancakes tall and pipe extra cream cheese frosting between each layer for that wow factor. Adding edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar on top makes a gorgeous presentation. It feels like having cinnamon rolls and pancakes all in one elegant dish—your guests will definitely be impressed!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge and they keep well for 2-3 days without drying out. Make sure to keep the cream cheese frosting separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Freezing works great for these pancakes! After cooking, let them cool completely, then layer with parchment paper between each pancake in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to a month. When you want a quick breakfast, just thaw and reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, I pop them in the toaster or microwave until warm (toaster gives a slight crisp edge, which I love). Then add a fresh drizzle of cream cheese frosting or a little butter and maple syrup to freshen up the flavors. They taste just as good the next day!
FAQs
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Can I make the cinnamon swirl ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the cinnamon swirl filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Before piping, give it a quick stir to recombine any separated butter and sugar for easy piping.
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What’s the best way to keep the cinnamon swirl from getting crunchy?
Piping the cinnamon butter swirl only in the center of the pancake keeps it gooey and soft. Avoid spreading it close to the edges, which can cook too fast and harden.
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Can I use store-bought pancake mix instead of Bisquick?
Yes! Feel free to substitute your favorite pancake mix. Just follow the package instructions for wet ingredients and quantities to maintain the right consistency.
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Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely. Kids love the fun cinnamon swirl and sweet cream cheese topping, plus the pancakes are soft and easy to eat. It’s a great way to introduce little ones to a fun twist on breakfast.
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap out the butter and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and vegan cream cheese, and use a plant-based milk in the batter. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want to impress without stress. Its blend of fluffy pancakes and that ooey-gooey cinnamon swirl with cream cheese frosting is truly something special and comforting. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easy and rewarding it is to whip up a breakfast that feels like a treat every time. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen just like they are in mine!
PrintCinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 4 min
- Total Time: 19 min
- Yield: 10 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes that combine the warm, spicy flavors of cinnamon rolls with the lightness of pancakes. Featuring a cinnamon butter filling spiraled into each pancake and a creamy vanilla cream cheese frosting drizzle, this breakfast treat is easy to make on the stovetop and perfect for a weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Filling
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 Tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 4 Tablespoons butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pancake Batter
- 2 cups Bisquick
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Make the Cinnamon Roll Filling: In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag or a zippered plastic bag. Cut about an ⅛ inch hole at the tip to allow controlled piping during cooking.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until the frosting is light, creamy, and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract, then spoon this mixture into another piping or plastic bag and set aside.
- Make the Pancake Batter: Whisk together the Bisquick, whole milk, vanilla extract, and eggs until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick batter without lumps.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a medium skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Apply a light coat of non-stick cooking spray or butter to ensure pancakes don’t stick.
- Cook and Fill the Pancakes: Pour approximately ½ cup of batter into the hot skillet and let it spread naturally. When bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to set (about 2 minutes), pipe the cinnamon butter filling in a spiral pattern onto the pancake, keeping it towards the center to avoid overcrowding the edges.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1 minute until golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer the pancake to a plate and drizzle or dollop the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve immediately while warm and fluffy.
- Repeat: Continue the process with the remaining batter, cinnamon filling, and frosting until all are used up, making approximately 10 pancakes.
Notes
- Shake up your weekend breakfast routine with a stack of fluffy cinnamon roll pancakes that bring the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls to your breakfast table.
- Be careful not to pipe the cinnamon filling too close to the edges to prevent it from cooking too quickly and becoming crunchy.
- Use softened cream cheese and butter for smooth, creamy frosting that’s easy to pipe.
- Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning and ensure even cooking of the pancakes.
- These pancakes are best served fresh but can be reheated gently in a skillet or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 422 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.4 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 66 mg