Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll with the ease of pancakes—this recipe is your dream come true! These Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are soft, tender, and swirled with sweet, buttery cinnamon, making every bite pure morning bliss.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend brunch, a special holiday breakfast, or just want to brighten your weekday mornings, these pancakes are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
Bakery-Style Flavor at Home: All the cinnamon roll magic without hours of dough rising.
Pillowy Soft Pancakes: Thanks to buttermilk and the perfect balance of leavening.
Decadent Cinnamon Swirl: Creates caramelized pockets of sweet, spiced goodness.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a quick comfort meal.
Customizable Toppings: From whipped cream to fresh berries, make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour — creates a sturdy but fluffy base.
- 2 tablespoons sugar — for subtle pancake sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder & ½ teaspoon baking soda — for a light, airy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt — balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon — enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 cup buttermilk — tenderizes the batter and adds a slight tang.
- 1 large egg — binds the batter together.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted — adds richness and flavor.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract — brings a warm aroma.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup brown sugar — deepens the cinnamon roll taste.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon — classic spice in every swirl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Pancake Batter
Whisk all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Gently fold the wet into the dry ingredients. A few lumps are perfectly fine—this ensures fluffy pancakes!
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. This will create beautiful caramelized swirls as the pancakes cook.
3. Cook the Pancakes
Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease. Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake and quickly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top before the batter sets.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
4. Plate and Serve
Stack your fluffy pancakes high and serve warm. Optional toppings take these over the top—keep reading for ideas!
Optional Toppings and Serving Ideas
Vanilla Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with milk and drizzle on top like a cinnamon roll.
Maple Syrup: The classic pairing that never disappoints.
Fresh Fruit: Brighten up the dish with strawberries, blueberries, or bananas.
Whipped Cream: Adds an extra creamy, luxurious touch.
Caramel Sauce: For an indulgent brunch, drizzle with warm caramel.
Chopped Nuts: Pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
Pro Tips for the Best Pancakes

- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stop stirring once everything is just combined to avoid dense pancakes.
- Keep the Griddle Medium Heat: This prevents burning the sugar swirl while ensuring the batter cooks through.
- Use Fresh Buttermilk: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor and fluffiness.
- Customize the Cinnamon Mix: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a touch of cardamom for extra warmth.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Stack pancakes with parchment paper between each and freeze for up to a month.
- Reheat: Microwave or warm gently in a skillet for fresh-off-the-griddle flavor anytime.
Recipe FAQ
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.
Can I make the batter ahead?
It’s best fresh, but you can mix dry and wet ingredients separately and combine in the morning.
How can I make these extra indulgent?
Add a swirl of cream cheese frosting on top or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a brunch dessert!
Final Thoughts
Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes combine everything you love about breakfast into one perfect bite: soft, airy pancakes, sweet cinnamon swirls, and customizable toppings. They’re easy enough for a weekday treat and impressive enough for special occasions.
Make these pancakes part of your morning routine—you’ll be dreaming of them all week long!
Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: A Warm, Sweet Breakfast Favorite
Course: Breakfast4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
Pancake Batter:
1 cup all-purpose flour — the foundation for fluffy pancakes.
2 tablespoons sugar — adds a gentle sweetness.
1 teaspoon baking powder & ½ teaspoon baking soda — for maximum fluffiness.
¼ teaspoon salt — enhances flavor balance.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon — for that cozy, warm flavor.
1 cup buttermilk — creates soft, tender pancakes.
1 large egg — adds richness and structure.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted — keeps the pancakes moist.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract — brings in sweet aroma and depth.Cinnamon Swirl:
¼ cup brown sugar — rich, molasses sweetness.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon — the star of the swirl.
Directions
- Prepare Pancake Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Gently combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed—avoid overmixing. - Mix Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar and cinnamon. This will create the signature cinnamon roll flavor. - Cook the Pancakes
Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease. Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake. While the batter is still wet, sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture over each pancake.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form and edges look set. Flip carefully and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. - Serve
Serve warm with syrup, a simple glaze, or your favorite toppings like fruit or whipped cream.
You can see more about
Raspberry Bread Recipe (Super Soft & Berry-Packed!)