There’s just something magical about waking up to the smell of warm cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. These Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes are one of my absolute favorite ways to turn a simple morning into something truly special. Imagine the comforting taste of a gooey cinnamon roll wrapped inside a soft, fluffy stack of homemade buttermilk pancakes—yes, it's as dreamy as it sounds!
Every bite of these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes is rich with buttery cinnamon sugar and finished with a drizzle of velvety cream cheese glaze that melts right into the warm pancakes. I’ve been making these for years—especially on cozy weekends or holiday mornings when I want to treat my family to something indulgent but still easy to pull together. You don’t need any fancy tools or professional skills—just a few pantry staples, a swirl of love, and you’ve got a breakfast that everyone will remember.
If you’re craving something that feels like a bakery treat but made right in your own kitchen, give these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes a try. They’ve quickly become a tradition in our home, and I hope they’ll become one in yours too.
Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes Recipe
Let me tell you—these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes are not your average morning flapjacks. They’re a cozy, cinnamon roll-inspired breakfast dream that’s become a cherished favorite in my kitchen. I’ve made them on everything from chilly fall Saturdays to summer birthdays, and no matter the season, they always bring smiles to the table.
What makes these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes so special? The pancakes themselves are light, fluffy, and carry that irresistible tang from the buttermilk—just like the classic diner-style ones I grew up with. But the real magic is in that buttery cinnamon sugar swirl that melts into each layer, creating those bakery-style ribbons of flavor in every bite. And the cream cheese glaze? It’s the finishing touch that takes this from breakfast to pure comfort food bliss.
I love serving these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with fresh fruit—sliced bananas or juicy berries are always a hit—and if you’re like me and can’t resist a sweet-and-savory moment, add a side of crispy bacon. Whether it's Christmas morning, a birthday breakfast in bed, or just a lazy Sunday that needs a little extra love, these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes turn an ordinary start into something unforgettable.
Once you try them, I promise these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes will earn a permanent spot in your breakfast rotation.
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Ingredients
For the Pancake Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups buttermilk (or 2 cups milk mixed with 2 tablespoons vinegar)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk, to adjust consistency
No buttermilk? No problem! Make your own by adding 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice to 2 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter and Cinnamon Swirl
- For the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with a small corner cut off. Set aside.
- For the pancake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don't overmix - a few small lumps are okay! Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while you heat your griddle or pan.
Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a large non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake, leaving room between them.
- Once the batter is on the griddle, quickly pipe the cinnamon swirl mixture onto each pancake. Start from the center and make a spiral outward.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and keep warm while cooking the remaining pancakes.
Timing tip: If the cinnamon swirl mixture gets too thick to pipe easily, simply reheat it for 10-15 seconds in the microwave.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired drizzling consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Stack your warm Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes on plates.
- Drizzle generously with the cream cheese glaze.
Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your delicious homemade Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes!
- Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter and Cinnamon Swirl
Combine all spices into a large bowl and combine thoroughly with mixture
- Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
Pipe the swirl onto each pancake and cook until golden.
- Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
Mix the glaze until smooth and adjust consistency with milk.
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle glaze over warm pancakes and serve immediately.
Hints and Tips
For the most perfect Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes, keep your griddle at medium heat - not too hot! If your pan is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside stays raw, and the cinnamon swirl might burn before the pancake is cooked through.
For picture-perfect swirls, let the pancake batter spread slightly before adding the cinnamon mixture. This gives you a more even canvas to work with. And remember, don't swirl with a toothpick or knife - this can tear the pancake batter and create messy results.
A good quality non-stick pan or well-seasoned cast iron skillet works best for these pancakes, as the sugar in the cinnamon swirl can make them more likely to stick.
Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes are a treat, but you can make some adjustments to suit different dietary needs:
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk with vinegar for the buttermilk, coconut oil instead of butter, and dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze.
- For a whole grain option, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Want extra protein? Add ¼ cup of Greek yogurt to the pancake batter.
These pancakes are perfect served with:
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas
- A drizzle of pure maple syrup (in addition to or instead of the cream cheese glaze)
- A side of crispy bacon or breakfast sausage
- A dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent breakfast
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Try these tasty twists on classic Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes:
- Apple Cinnamon Swirl: Add ½ cup of finely diced apples to the pancake batter for an autumn-inspired treat.
- Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl: Replace ½ cup of the buttermilk with pumpkin puree and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the batter.
- Chocolate Cinnamon Swirl: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the pancake batter and chocolate chips to the cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn't already contain it.
- Banana Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Mash a ripe banana into the pancake batter for natural sweetness and added moisture.
Equipment
For the best Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes, having the right equipment makes all the difference:
- A large non-stick griddle or skillet is essential. An electric griddle works especially well because it maintains a consistent temperature.
- A piping bag or zip-top bag is crucial for creating neat cinnamon swirls. If you don't have either, you can use a squeeze bottle in a pinch.
- A thin, flexible spatula helps flip these delicate pancakes without destroying the swirl pattern.
- A whisk for combining the ingredients thoroughly.
- Mixing bowls of various sizes for the pancake batter, cinnamon swirl, and cream cheese glaze.
Storage
These Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes are at their absolute best when eaten fresh off the griddle, but if you have leftovers:
- Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes.
- For freezing, place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They'll keep for up to 2 months.
- Store the cream cheese glaze separately in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before using, or warm it slightly in the microwave.
The Cozy Little Trick That Changed My Pancake Mornings Forever
I still remember the first chilly Saturday I set out to make Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes from scratch. I had visions of golden stacks with perfect cinnamon ribbons swirling through each fluffy layer—just like the ones I saw in those dreamy brunch photos. But let me tell you, my first attempt was anything but picture-perfect. The cinnamon mixture was too thin, and instead of a swirl, I got a sticky puddle that melted into the pan before I could even flip the pancake. I nearly gave up. But after a few more tries (and a lot of dishwashing), I cracked the code.
The secret? The swirl mixture has to be just the right consistency—something close to toothpaste. It should squeeze easily from a piping bag but hold its shape as it settles into the pancake batter. If it’s too thick, it won’t pipe smoothly. Too runny, and it’ll spread out before the magic happens. And here's a little lifesaver I discovered through experience: if your cinnamon swirl mixture starts to firm up while you're flipping batches, just pop it in the microwave for 5–10 seconds. It softens right up and pipes like a dream again.
It’s a small detail, but it makes all the difference. That one tweak turned my kitchen fails into those bakery-style Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes I’d been dreaming of—and now they’re a weekend tradition in our home. I hope this little trick saves you the frustration and helps you nail that swirl with confidence. Because there’s nothing better than seeing your family light up over a warm stack made with love.
FAQ
What ingredients keep pancakes from falling apart?
Pancakes need the right balance of flour, eggs, and fat to stay together. Eggs act as a binder, while flour provides structure. Butter or oil adds moisture and richness. Overmixing or using too little flour can cause them to fall apart. Letting the batter rest helps gluten develop just enough to hold everything together without being tough.
What is the ratio of cinnamon to sugar in pancakes?
For a classic cinnamon swirl in pancakes, a good starting point is 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon to every ¼ cup of brown sugar. This ratio creates a balanced swirl that’s rich, warm, and not overly sweet. You can adjust slightly depending on how bold you want the cinnamon flavor to be, but this ratio works beautifully for most recipes.
What is the secret to making the best pancakes?
The best pancakes start with buttermilk, which adds tang and makes them fluffy. Don’t overmix the batter—lumps are okay! Let it rest for 5–10 minutes so the flour fully hydrates. Use a preheated non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. And for bonus fluff, fold in beaten egg whites or a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the batter.
How many calories are in cinnamon swirl pancakes?
A serving of homemade Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes (about 3 medium pancakes with cream cheese glaze) contains roughly 475–500 calories. The total can vary depending on portion size and ingredients, especially the amount of cinnamon sugar and glaze used. For a lighter option, reduce the glaze or use a smaller swirl to cut back on sugar and fat.
Swirls of Joy: The Breakfast That Warms Hearts and Kitchens
There’s just something magical about a stack of Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes—from the first sizzle in the pan to the sweet, cinnamon-sugar aroma that fills the air. This recipe brings together the comfort of homemade pancakes and the indulgence of a cinnamon roll in one dreamy bite. Whether you're cooking for your family, surprising someone you love, or just treating yourself to a slow morning, these Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes are pure, swirled happiness on a plate.
And if you're on the lookout for more cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast ideas, don’t miss my Banana Foster Pancakes—they’re caramelized, gooey, and downright decadent—or try something a little more wholesome with my Banana Oat Pancakes, a naturally sweet, fiber-packed favorite we keep on repeat.
So go ahead—pour that swirl, drizzle that glaze, and create a breakfast moment worth savoring. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your people will smile wider, and you'll be one step closer to making every weekend morning feel just a little more magical.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes recipe:
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl For pancake batter and glaze
- 1 Whisk To mix batter and glaze smoothly
- 1 Piping bag or zip bag For the cinnamon swirl
- 1 Griddle or skillet Non-stick or cast iron preferred
- 1 Spatula Thin and flexible for flipping
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups buttermilk See note for DIY substitute
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter Cooled slightly
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl
- 4 tablespoon butter Unsalted, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar Packed
- 2 tablespoon cinnamon Ground
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese Softened
- ¼ cup butter Softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoon milk To adjust consistency
Instructions
- Stack, drizzle with glaze, and enjoy.
- Make Batter – Whisk dry, combine with wet ingredients.
- Rest Batter – Let sit while heating the griddle.
- Pipe Swirl – Add cinnamon swirl after pouring pancake batter.
- Flip Pancakes – Cook both sides until golden.
- Make Glaze – Beat cream cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla, milk.
- Serve Warm – Stack, drizzle with glaze, and enjoy.
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