Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you love waking up to the cozy, sweet aroma of cinnamon and the comforting swirl of a cinnamon roll, imagine all that goodness in fluffy pancakes topped with luscious cream cheese frosting (plant-based). These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful morning treat that blends warm spices, a sweet glaze, and soft, airy pancakes to create a breakfast experience like no other. Prepare to impress your family or guests with this easy-to-make indulgence that feels like a special occasion every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: Combines the best of cinnamon rolls and pancakes in one easy-to-make dish.
• Fluffy and Light: Perfectly soft pancakes that melt in your mouth with a gentle cinnamon swirl.
• Plant-Based Cream Cheese Frosting: Rich and creamy topping that adds sweetness and tang without dairy.
• Great for Any Occasion: A perfect breakfast, brunch, or even dessert that will impress everyone.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples with a few special touches for extraordinary flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to achieving that perfect balance of cinnamon roll flavor and fluffy pancake texture. Each element plays a key role in building layers of taste, from the aromatic spices to the creamy frosting.

• All-purpose flour: The base for these pancakes, providing structure and softness.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents to make the pancakes light and fluffy.
• Brown sugar (natural): Adds subtle sweetness and enhances warm caramel notes in the cinnamon swirl.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg (natural): The heart of the cinnamon roll flavor-packed with warm spices.
• Plant-based milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender while accommodating dietary preferences.
• Apple cider vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to create extra fluffiness and a slight tang.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Used sparingly in some variations to boost depth of flavor.
• Powdered sugar (natural): Sweetens the cream cheese frosting smoothly without graininess.
• Cream cheese (plant-based): The star of the frosting that delivers creamy texture and richness.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps the frosting hold its creamy shape and spread easily.
• Vanilla extract (natural): Adds fragrant sweetness to the frosting and batter.
• Smoked turkey bacon (optional): A savory addition for those who want a sweet and smoky contrast.

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to customize to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these fun twists and additions.

• Vegan version: Use plant-based yogurt and replace eggs with flax eggs for a fully vegan-friendly pancake.
• Fruit swirl: Add a swirl of blueberry or raspberry puree to add fruity brightness to the cinnamon flavor.
• Nutty crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the swirl for added texture and flavor.
• Spiced frosting: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger to the cream cheese frosting for an exotic twist.
• Smoked turkey slices topping: Replacement for savory layers adding a delightful, smoky touch for a brunch combo.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

Start by mixing together brown sugar (natural), cinnamon (natural), nutmeg (natural), and a little melted coconut oil. This mixture will create the signature cinnamon swirl that makes the pancakes special. Set aside while you work on the batter.

Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, combine plant-based milk with apple cider vinegar and vanilla extract (natural). Allow the milk mixture to sit for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour pancake batter to form a small circle, then add a spoonful of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Use the back of a spoon or toothpick to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface and edges are set, then carefully flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat the plant-based cream cheese with powdered sugar (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and a small amount of natural gelling agent until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to taste for the perfect frosting consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Stack the warm cinnamon roll pancakes, and generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top. Optionally, drizzle a little extra brown sugar (natural) syrup or sprinkle with cinnamon for an irresistible finish.

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Room temperature ingredients: Use room temperature plant-based cream cheese and milk for smoother batter and frosting.
• Don’t overmix batter: Stir until just combined to keep pancakes tender and fluffy.
• Swirling technique: Use a toothpick or skewer for gentle swirling of cinnamon sugar to avoid blending into the entire batter.
• Low and slow cooking: Cook pancakes on medium or medium-low heat to avoid burning cinnamon sugar.
• Make frosting ahead: Prepare the cream cheese frosting in advance and keep it chilled until ready to use for easier spreading.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Top with sliced smoked turkey bacon or smoked turkey slices for a savory balance, add chopped toasted nuts for crunch, or sprinkle with cinnamon (natural) or shredded coconut for a little extra flair.

Side Dishes

Complement with fresh seasonal fruits like berries or banana slices to brighten the plate and add natural sweetness. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or grape juice enhances the breakfast experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve as stacked towers with frosting dripping down the sides, or arrange pancakes rolled up like cinnamon scrolls filled with the sugar swirl inside. For brunch, top with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt and scatter edible flowers for a pretty touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness without drying out.

Freezing

Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Freeze cream cheese frosting separately in a sealed container for best results.

Reheating

Warm pancakes gently in a toaster or oven at low heat to retain fluffiness; frost them after reheating. If frosting is frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before use.

FAQs

Can I make cinnamon roll pancakes without a frying pan?

Yes, you can use a non-stick griddle or even a waffle iron to cook the batter, adjusting cooking times accordingly for even heat distribution.

Is the cream cheese frosting very sweet?

The frosting is mildly sweet with a perfect balance of tanginess from the cream cheese (plant-based), making it a great complement to the sweet cinnamon swirl.

Can I prepare the batter the night before?

While you can mix the dry ingredients ahead, it’s best to add wet ingredients just before cooking to ensure optimal rising and fluffiness.

What can I substitute for plant-based milk?

Any non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk works beautifully, lending moisture and flavor to the pancake batter.

How do I get the perfect cinnamon swirl?

Use a small spoon to drop the cinnamon sugar mixture onto the batter and swirl gently with a toothpick or skewer before cooking to keep distinct swirls without blending completely.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about waking up to warm, fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch or treating yourself on a lazy morning, this recipe offers all the cozy, comforting flavors you love in a unique and fun way. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, whip up this delightful breakfast, and enjoy every bite that tastes like a warm hug.

Related Posts

• Cranberry Muffins with Orange Zest and Pecans Delight
• Easy Quick Breakfast Sandwich with Turkey Bacon Egg and Cheese
• Fresh Cranberry Walnut Bread with Orange Zest

Print