Okay, let’s be real — pancakes are awesome. Cinnamon rolls? Also awesome. But cinnamon rolls inside pancakes? That’s not just awesome — that’s next-level breakfast wizardry. 🤯
If you’ve never tried cinnamon roll stuffed pancakes before, let me just say: you’re seriously missing out, my friend. Don’t worry, though — I’ve got your back. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to whip up this gooey, fluffy, sweet-as-a-hug breakfast masterpiece.
So grab your apron (or just pretend you’re a professional chef — no judgment) and let’s make your morning infinitely better.
Why Cinnamon Roll Stuffed Pancakes? (Besides, You Know… Being Delicious)
Ever sat there trying to choose between pancakes and cinnamon rolls? Same. 🙋♀️ Why pick just one when you can mash them together into something glorious?
Here’s why you need these bad boys in your life:
- They’re Instagram-worthy. Like, come on — they’re practically screaming, “Post me with #breakfastgoals.”
- Perfect for brunch. Want to impress your friends or that special someone? These scream effort, but are secretly easy. 😉
- Ultimate comfort food. Gooey cinnamon filling + pillowy pancake = morning therapy session.
FYI: You don’t need fancy skills to make these. If you can flip a pancake and swirl some filling, you’re good to go.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients List
Alright, let’s talk about the players on this breakfast dream team. I’m not going to hit you with obscure ingredients you’ll never use again. Everything here is pretty standard pantry fare.
For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Optional Cream Cheese Drizzle (but like… not really optional IMO):
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
That’s it. If you don’t already have these ingredients, are you even living? 😜
Step-By-Step: How To Make Cinnamon Roll Stuffed Pancakes
Now for the fun part. Don’t worry — I’ll walk you through it like we’re baking side-by-side.
Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and spoon it into a zip-top bag (snip off a tiny corner) or use a piping bag.
Pro tip: If it sits too long, it can harden — so be ready to use it when your pancakes hit the pan.
Step 2: Whip Up the Pancake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Don’t overdo it — unless you enjoy chewy, sad pancakes. 😏
Step 3: Cook and Swirl
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour about ¼ cup batter for each pancake.
When bubbles start forming on the surface (about 2 minutes in), pipe a swirl of cinnamon filling on top.
Flip and cook for another minute or so until golden brown.
Pro tip: Don’t freak out if some of the filling leaks — that’s just extra caramelization. Aka flavor.
Step 4: Make It Fancy with Cream Cheese Drizzle
In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.
Drizzle over your warm pancakes like you’re the Picasso of breakfast.
Tips & Tricks For Cinnamon Roll Pancake Perfection
You want your pancakes to turn out as dreamy as they look on Pinterest? Here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Don’t overmix the batter. Seriously — stop when it’s just combined.
- Keep the heat at medium. Too hot = burnt outside, raw inside. Yikes.
- Make the swirl slightly thick. Too runny and it’ll disappear into the pancake.
- Wipe the pan between batches. Keeps things neat and prevents burnt sugar bits.
And if all else fails? Just cover it all in cream cheese drizzle and no one will notice. 🤷♀️
Why Homemade Beats Restaurant Pancakes (Every. Single. Time.)
Look, I’m not saying you should never brunch at your favorite café again. But IMO, homemade pancakes have some major advantages:
- Cheaper. Like, way cheaper.
- Customizable. Want extra cinnamon? Double it. Feeling fancy? Add chopped pecans.
- Zero judgment. You can eat five in your pajamas and no one’s giving you side-eye.
Plus, you can blast your favorite playlist and dance around the kitchen like nobody’s watching. (Unless your cat is watching — mine definitely judges me. 🐱)
Can You Meal Prep These? Heck Yes.
If you’re thinking, “But who has time for this on a busy morning?” — good news. These actually freeze and reheat beautifully.
Here’s how:
- Let them cool completely.
- Stack with parchment paper between each pancake.
- Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the freezer.
When you’re ready, just pop one in the microwave or toaster. Boom — fancy breakfast on a Tuesday.
Fun Variations To Try
Not that the classic version isn’t perfect, but hey — life’s short. Here are some ways to switch it up:
- Apple Cinnamon: Add thin apple slices or grated apple to the batter.
- Pumpkin Spice: Swap cinnamon filling for pumpkin spice mix and a little pumpkin purée.
- Nutty Buddy: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts into the swirl.
- Chocolate Twist: Mix cocoa powder into the cinnamon filling for a mocha vibe.
Ever wondered what happens if you mix Nutella into the swirl? Answer: Pure happiness. 😊
Common Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)
Alright, let’s keep it real. Stuff happens. Here are a few rookie mistakes you can easily dodge:
- Overcooking the pancakes. Keep your heat medium and watch them like a hawk.
- Swirl too runny. If it’s too thin, it’ll spread everywhere instead of making a nice spiral.
- Pan too hot. Leads to sugar burning and sticking — which is a nightmare to clean.
Remember: patience + medium heat = pancake bliss.
FAQs
Can I use pancake mix instead of making batter from scratch?
Absolutely. No pancake-shaming here. Just mix it up and focus your energy on perfecting that swirl.
Do I have to make the cream cheese drizzle?
Technically no. But also… why wouldn’t you?
Can I make them vegan/gluten-free?
Yep. Use your fave plant-based milk, egg replacer, and a gluten-free flour blend. FYI: Results may vary, but they’re still delicious.
Related Recipes
- Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe
- Banana Blueberry Breakfast Cookies Recipe
- Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Final Thoughts
So there you have it — everything you need to know to conquer the glorious world of cinnamon roll stuffed pancakes.
Are they extra? Yep. Are they worth it? Oh heck yes.
Whether you’re trying to impress someone, spoil yourself, or just make a Tuesday feel a little more like Sunday brunch, these pancakes deliver every single time.
So what are you waiting for? Grab that whisk, channel your inner pancake ninja, and get flipping! And if anyone asks why you’re making dessert for breakfast, just smile and say: “It’s called self-care.” 😉
Now excuse me while I go whip up another batch… purely for research purposes, of course.
Happy cooking, and may your pancakes always be fluffy and your swirls always be perfect. 🥞✨
Cinnamon Roll Stuffed Pancakes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp softened butter for cinnamon filling
- Cream cheese glaze optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter; combine with dry ingredients.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter to make filling.
- Heat a greased skillet over medium heat. Pour batter for one pancake.
- Add a spoonful of cinnamon filling in the center; swirl gently.
- Top with a bit more pancake batter to seal the filling.
- Cook until bubbles form, flip, and cook until golden.
- Repeat for remaining pancakes.
- Serve warm with cream cheese glaze or syrup.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the batter for fluffier pancakes.
- Keep cinnamon filling thick so it stays inside while cooking.
- You can prep the filling a day ahead and refrigerate.
DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY RECIPE?
If you have, then share it with us by sending a photo. We’re excited to see what you’ve made 🙂